ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq has expressed deep sorrow anda condemned theterrorist attack on a bus carrying innocentstudents of the Army Public School in Khuzdar.

“The tragic incident, which claimed lives of childrenand injured several others, is condemenable in every sense of word,” he said.

The Speaker conveyed his profound grief over the loss of young, innocent lives and extended his deepest condolences to the bereaved families. “The entire nation shares the pain and sorrow of the families who have lost their beloved children in this inhuman act. Our thoughts and the prayers of entire nation are with them during this unimaginably difficult time,” he said.

Ayaz Sadiq stated that no words are strong enough to condemn such barbarity. “Those who target innocent children are not just enemies of the state but enemies of all humanity. Such heinous actions have no place in any religion or civilised society,” he emphasised.

The Speaker affirmed the unwavering resolve of the nation and Armed forcesto combat terrorism in all its forms. He vowed the perpetrators of this reprehensible act would be brought to justice. “The planners and executors of this terrorist attack will be pursued relentlessly and punished with the full force of the law. There will be no leniency for those who seek to destroy peace and target the future of our nation,” he asserted.

Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq also offered prayers for the swift and full recovery of those injured in the attack and prayed for the elevation of the ranks of the martyrs. He prayedAlmighty Allah to grant patience and strength to the grieving families to bear this irreparable loss with courage and fortitude.

The Speaker reiterated the Parliament’s commitment to stand united against terrorism and to support all measures aimed at ensuring the safety and security of the people of Pakistan, especially the children who are the future of the nation.

Convenor PCCR

Member of the National Assembly and Convenor of the Parliamentary Caucus on Child Rights, Dr Nikhat Shakeel Khan on Wednesday strongly condemned the recent terrorist attack on an Army Public School bus in Khuzdar, Balochistan, which tragically claimed the lives of innocent children.

Calling the attack “cowardly and barbaric,” Dr Nikhat Shakeel stated that such violence was a grave violation of humanity and a direct assault on the nation’s future”, she said.

“Targeting schoolchildren is one of the most heinous crimes imaginable. It not only robs families of their loved ones but also shatters the sense of safety that every child deserves,” she added.

A statement issued from PCCR, Dr Nikhat Shakeel expressed deep sorrow and solidarity with the victims’ families, extending heartfelt condolences and prayers for the swift recovery of the injured.

She further emphasised the urgent need for justice, stating that those responsible for this despicable act must be identified and prosecuted without delay. “There must be no tolerance for terrorism, especially when it targets the most vulnerable members of our society—our children,” she said.

Reaffirming the commitment of the PCCR, she reiterated that the protection and welfare of children will remain a top priority. “We will continue to raise our voices against all forms of violence and injustice, and work tirelessly for a Pakistan where every child can live, learn, and grow in peace and security”.

Published in Dawn, May 22nd, 2025