PESHAWAR: Awami National Party, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, President Mian Iftikhar Hussain on Thursday paid tribute to the martyrs of the Qissa Khwani Bazaar massacre on its 96th anniversary, declaring the April 23, 1930, incident an unforgettable chapter in the region’s history.

In a statement, Mr Hussain said that 96 years ago, British colonial forces unleashed extreme brutality on peaceful protesters in Peshawar’s Qissa Khwani Bazaar.

“More than 400 Khudai Khidmatgars and civilians were martyred in direct firing. Unarmed demonstrators stood firm and faced bullets with courage, without abandoning their principles of non-violence,” he said.

The ANP leader said the sacrifices of the martyrs ultimately contributed to the end of colonial rule in the region.

Leader says party following principle of non-violence

“These sacrifices were not in vain. The martyrs of the national movement remain a source of pride and represent a continuous legacy of struggle, ideology and history,” he said.

Mr Hussain noted that members of the Khudai Khidmatgar Movement endured immense hardships, including imprisonment and state repression, and laid down their lives for freedom, dignity and autonomy.

“Their sacrifices form the foundation of our national identity and political consciousness,” he said.

Reaffirming his party’s commitment, the ANP leader said it continued to follow the principles of non-violence espoused by Bacha Khan and his companions.

He stressed the need to promote tolerance and counter extremism through peaceful means.

Mr Hussain also underlined the importance of educating younger generations about their history and leaders.

“It is our collective responsibility to familiarise the youth with their past so they understand the sacrifices made for freedom, peace and democracy,” he said.

The ANP leader said that the party would continue its political and ideological struggle for constitutional supremacy, justice, peace, and the rights of the people.

Published in Dawn, April 24th, 2026