A deadly attack during Friday prayers in the federal capital killed at least 37 worshippers and injured over 150, plunging the city into mourning and shock
By Asghar Ali Mubarak
ISLAMABAD: Islamabad grieved on Wednesday as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced financial compensation for those martyred and injured in last week’s devastating suicide blast at Khadijah al-Kubra Imambargah.
The attack, which occurred during Friday prayers, claimed the lives of at least 37 worshippers and left more than 150 others wounded, casting a shadow of sorrow over the federal capital. Visiting the imambargah, he expressed deep grief over the loss of innocent lives and conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims.
The prime minister acknowledged that no monetary compensation could ever truly replace the lives lost but said the government would provide Rs10 million for Shaheed Oun Abbas, who had confronted the suicide attacker and sacrificed his life, Rs5 million for each martyr, Rs3 million for those severely injured, and Rs1 million for individuals with minor injuries.
Paying tribute to the courage and resilience of the victims, PM Shehbaz Sharif offered fateha and prayed for the departed souls, while also wishing a swift recovery for the injured. He personally met with the bereaved families and survivors, reaffirming the state’s commitment to stand by them in the aftermath of the tragedy.
Terming the attack as “the worst kind of barbaric act,” the prime minister condemned the violence in the strongest terms. He highlighted the unity displayed by religious leaders and ulema, who had collectively denounced the assault and praised the courage of ordinary citizens who resisted the attacker.
“Shaheed Oun Abbas, who resisted the suicide attacker and sacrificed his life, will be remembered in golden words,” the prime minister said, underscoring the heroism of individuals who confront terrorism with unwavering resolve. He also observed that the perpetrators’ attempt to sow discord and fear in society had failed.
PM Shehbaz commended the armed forces, law enforcement agencies, and police for their sustained efforts against terrorism, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, praising the sacrifices made in pursuit of national security. “The entire nation is indebted to them,” he said, voicing hope for the eventual elimination of terrorism from Pakistan.
