During this time, Jinnah moved from Quetta to Ziarat due to his declining health. Despite his worsening condition, the events surrounding his move to Ziarat and his last days remain shrouded in mystery.
The decision to move to Ziarat (July 14, 1948)
Jinnah’s health had deteriorated, leading to his transfer to Ziarat. Some sources suggest that it was Jinnah’s personal decision due to exhaustion, while Fatima Jinnah, in her memoir My Brother, mentioned that it was a result of his need for rest from constant political pressures. Ziarat, located 133 km from Quetta at 2449 meters above sea level, offered a peaceful environment.
Medical refusal and diagnosis (July 21–29, 1948)
Initially, Jinnah resisted medical attention, but on July 21, he acknowledged the seriousness of his illness. Dr. Ilahi Bakhsh arrived on July 23 and diagnosed Jinnah with tuberculosis, which Jinnah had known about for years but kept secret to avoid public panic. An X-ray in Bombay had already confirmed the disease but was kept hidden due to political reasons.
Refusal of treatment (July 30–August 12, 1948)
Despite the diagnosis, Jinnah refused treatment. Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan visited him on July 30, but Dr. Bakhsh withheld details of Jinnah’s condition. On August 6, Jinnah’s health worsened, and a new treatment was started. During this period, Jinnah’s favorite chef was called from Bombay to prepare his meals, showing his persistence in maintaining his usual routine despite his declining health.
The end of his will to live (August 29–September 10, 1948)
Jinnah’s health showed slight improvement by August 16, and he began to work and resume normal activities. However, by August 29, Jinnah expressed his resignation, stating, "I have finished my work." His condition deteriorated further, and on September 1, he was diagnosed with pneumonia.
Jinnah’s final moments (September 11, 1948)
Jinnah was transferred from Quetta to Karachi on September 11, but a series of delays worsened his condition. He passed away shortly after arriving at the Governor-General’s House. His last words were reported as "Fati… God bless…" or "Allah… Pakistan," marking the end of his life and his extraordinary journey.