DADU: The first anniversary of those who lost their lives in the suicide blast at Lal Shahbaz Qalandar’s shrine was observed on Sunday night which continued till Monday morning.

It was organised by the Shia Ulema Council.

At least 90 people died and over 300 were injured in the blast which took place on Feb 16 last year.

Hundreds of people, including relatives of the deceased, arrived from across the country to attend the anniversary.

Quran khwani was held and meal was distributed among the needy.

On the occasion, leader of the Shia Ulema Council Allama Sajid Ali Naqvi said the rulers had done nothing for the families of the victims though one year had passed.

He demanded that investigation commission’s report be made public.

Allama Naqvi condemned terrorist activities in the country and said perpetrators of the crime should be arrested forthwith.

He added that the citizens of the country would never allow anyone to sabotage unity and sovereignty of Pakistan.

Provincial president of the council Allama Syed Nazar Abbas Naqvi showed no confidence in the investigation commission and proposed that a separate force be formed for the security of Qalandar’s shrine.

Others who also spoke on the occasion included Allama Moh­am­mad Baqir Najafi, All­ama Asad Raza Najmi, Allama Asad Iqbal Zaidi, Allama Riaz Hussain Hussaini, Allama Dur Moh­ammad Kolachi, Allama Salih Shar, Maulana Ali Moh­am­mad Shakir, Mozaam Bal­och and Qurban Ali Hyderi.

Published in Dawn, February 13th, 2018