ISLAMABAD, Feb 15: The federal government has released Rs623 million to be paid as compensation to victims of militancy in the NWFP and the Federally Administered Tribal Areas, an official announcement said on Sunday.

President Asif Ali Zardari described the victims of militancy as ‘national heroes’ and advised the NWFP government to immediately pay compensation to affected families.

He also asked the provincial government to inform the president’s office about the disbursement on a daily basis.

The advice follows the release of Rs283 million for Fata and Rs340 million for the NWFP in pursuance of president’s announcement about compensation to be paid to families of victims of suicide bombings and other acts of terror.

During his recent visit to Peshawar, Mr Zardari had advised the government to provide funds and to make immediate disbursements for the purpose.

“It is vital that following the transfer of funds, the provincial government ensures proper disbursement without any delay,” the president said.Under the compensation programme, Rs300,000 will be paid for every fatality and Rs100,000 for each injured. The funds released take into account all fatalities and injuries in the province and Fata.

“Although the amount to be provided to the victims is quite meagre and cannot compensate for their severe loss and sufferings, it demonstrates the will of the government not to abandon its citizens and to keep fighting the militants till their subjugation,” the president said.

The rehabilitation of families of the victims, he said, was not only the moral responsibility of the government towards its citizens but also an essential component in the fight against militancy.

The government has already raised the issue with world leaders and international bodies and expressed hope that the world community will also step in to play its role in compensating and rehabilitating the victims of militancy.

“Those who refused to bow and died, those who suffered while standing in the fight against militancy are our national heroes and heroines who must be honoured; and will be honoured,” the president said.