Karachi, April 08, 2025 – The Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) mourns the loss of one of its founding pillars, Senator Taj Haider, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 83 in Karachi. The veteran politician, known for his unwavering commitment to democracy and social justice, succumbed to a brief illness, leaving behind a legacy that intertwined politics, arts, and intellectualism.
Family sources confirmed that Haider had been under medical care at a private hospital in Karachi in his final days. While the news of his passing sent ripples of sorrow across the political spectrum, details of his funeral arrangements are yet to be finalized and will be shared later by his loved ones.
Born on March 8, 1942, in Kota, Rajasthan, Taj Haider hailed from a family steeped in scholarly traditions. After migrating to Pakistan, he pursued his early education at Government Boys High School in Ranchor Line, Karachi, laying the foundation for a life marked by intellectual curiosity and public service. His journey into politics began in 1967 when he embraced the socialist movement, a decision that led him to join the PPP in its nascent days under the leadership of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. Haider’s ideological alignment with the party’s vision of empowering the marginalized made him a steadfast comrade in its ranks.
Beyond his political endeavors, Taj Haider was a man of many talents. A gifted writer, he penned thought-provoking pieces for newspapers and television, earning recognition in Pakistan’s cultural landscape. His portrayal of Professor Audiwala in the popular TV drama Aabla Pa showcased his flair for the arts, while his accolades—including the Sitara-i-Imtiaz in 2012 for contributions to science and the 13th PTV Award for Best Drama Serial Writer in 2006—underscored his versatility. Haider’s ability to bridge the worlds of politics and creativity set him apart as a unique figure in Pakistan’s public life.
Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, visibly moved by the loss, described Haider as “a wise, composed, and visionary leader whose dedication to democracy and the people’s welfare was unparalleled.” In a statement, Shah emphasized that the senator’s death leaves a void in the PPP that will be deeply felt. “He lived for the ideals of justice and equality, and his contributions will inspire generations,” the chief minister added.
PPP leader Waqar Mehdi echoed these sentiments, hailing Haider as “a true ideological warrior” and a foundational member of the party. “Taj Haider’s loyalty to the PPP and his tireless service to the nation are etched in our history. He was not just a politician but a mentor to many,” Mehdi remarked.
As tributes pour in from across Pakistan, Taj Haider’s passing marks the end of an era for the PPP and the country’s political landscape. His life, a tapestry of activism, artistry, and intellectual pursuit, serves as a reminder of the profound impact one individual can have on a nation’s conscience. The PPP has lost a stalwart, but Haider’s vision for a democratic and equitable Pakistan endures as his enduring gift to the people he served.
