APS remains a dark chapter in our history: Bilawal

Reiterates nation's resolve to fight terrorism on 10th anniversary of the attack

KARACHI:

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has paid tribute to the martyrs of the Army Public School (APS) Peshawar tragedy on the 10th anniversary of the horrific attack, emphasising the nation's resolve to combat terrorism and safeguard future generations.

Six terrorists had barged into APS Peshawar on December 16, 2014, killed 149 people including 132 schoolchildren aged eight to 18. Pakistan Army SSG commandos in rescue operation killed all six terrorists and rescued 960 people.

The injured, survivors, and the aprents of the martyrs continue to face psychological trauma of the tragic day.

In a statement issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP expressed profound sorrow over the loss of innocent lives in the barbaric attack on December 16, 2014. "The APS carnage remains one of the darkest chapters in Pakistan's history, a tragedy that shook the conscience of the nation and united us against the menace of terrorism," he said. He also lauded the resilience and courage of the families of the martyred children and staff members.

Chairman Bilawal called upon the federal and provincial governments to ensure the effective implementation of the National Action Plan (NAP). He emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of radicalisation through education, economic opportunities, and social harmony.

"On this deeply painful day, let us honor the memory of the APS martyrs by renewing our pledge to fight for a Pakistan free from terrorism, where every child can dream fearlessly and achieve their potential," he concluded.

Schools' body announces special events

Special events will be organised to pay tribute to APS Peshawar Martyrs students and teachers in all private schools across the Sindh.

According to the announcement of the All Sindh Private Schools and Colleges Association, all private educational institutions across Sindh will remain open as usual on Monday, December 16 and special events will be held in memory of the Army Public School (APS) Peshawar tragedy.

The association said that a pledge will also be renewed on this occasion under the theme inspired by the vision of Quaid-i-Azam emphasising that "Educational progress is a matter of life and death for the Nation."

Meanwhile, Pakistan Sunni Tehreek (PST) leaders said that special prayers and awareness progeammes will be held on the 10th anniversary of the APS tragedy. "We cannot let terrorism prevail, our existence as a free nation hinges on the existence of the state of Pakistan," they said in a statement.