CM Bugti announces civil award for hospital employee after acid attack

Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti on Sunday announced a civil award for Abdul Razzaq Tarakai, an employee of Civil Hospital Quetta, in recognition of his “extraordinary bravery and humanity” for risking his life during an acid attack on a female doctor.

The announcement came a day after a postgraduate doctor, Mahnoor Nasar, was critically injured when an attacker threw acid on her while she was on duty at the surgical ward of Civil Sandeman Hospital, the province’s largest public health facility.

Tarakai was also injured while attempting to save Dr Mahnoor during the attack and is currently under treatment at a hospital in Quetta.

CM Bugti praised Tarakai for displaying exceptional courage, duty and compassion in the face of danger, saying he rushed to assist the injured doctor immediately after the attack despite personal risk.

In a post shared on social media platform X, the chief minister described Tarakai as a “precious asset to society,” noting that individuals who step forward to save lives without regard for their own safety embody the highest values of humanity.

“Tarakai’s timely action set a remarkable example of humanity, professional responsibility and moral integrity. In recognition of his services, the Government of Balochistan will honour him with a civil award to further promote the spirit of sacrifice, compassion and public service in society,” he said.

The chief minister added that brave and dutiful individuals are the pride of the nation, and Tarakai’s courage would be acknowledged at the national level. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to encouraging and supporting those who work selflessly for the protection of lives and the service of humanity.

He further said such individuals were symbols of hope, resilience and humanity, serving as role models for the younger generation.

Meanwhile, Dr Mahnoor Nasar, who was targeted in the acid attack in Quetta on June 5, is currently receiving treatment at Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) in Karachi, where she underwent a comprehensive medical examination on Sunday.

Although the hospital has not issued an official statement on her condition, hospital sources said 13 per cent of her body sustained acid burns, affecting her face, abdomen, thighs and right hand.

The prime suspect, Humayun Shah, was killed in a police encounter near Nushki Bus Stop after opening fire on law enforcement personnel during a district-wide manhunt.