The Senate of Pakistan unanimously condemned the recent terrorist attack on a school bus in Khuzdar, Balochistan, which claimed the lives of several children. Lawmakers described the attack as barbaric and inhumane, calling for urgent and decisive action against India-backed terrorist groups allegedly operating within Pakistan.
Calls for Accountability and Action
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Senator Irfan-ul-Haq Siddiqui, and others strongly criticized India’s alleged support for terrorism in Pakistan. They stressed the need for a firm national response to external threats.
Senator Anwar ul Haq Kakar called for accountability for extremist groups influenced by India’s ruling RSS and BJP, holding them responsible for fostering violence across the border.
Senator Siddiqui expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, saying the targeting of schoolchildren was beyond comprehension. Rejecting any form of leniency for the perpetrators, he urged military action to dismantle terrorist networks. “I have spent a lifetime with words, but today, I find none strong enough to convey the horror of this crime,” he said.
Senator Sherry Rehman echoed the sentiments, calling the attack an “act of inhumanity.” She reaffirmed Pakistan’s long-standing commitment to fighting terrorism and referenced evidence linking India to past terror incidents. “We cannot negotiate with those who target innocent civilians,” Rehman said firmly.
Aimal Wali Khan Criticizes Policy Gaps
Awami National Party (ANP) leader Aimal Wali Khan condemned the attack on children, stating that such cruelty surpasses even the treatment of animals. He criticized the nation’s failure to effectively implement counterterrorism policies like the National Action Plan.
“For decades, we’ve followed a pattern — mourn the dead, blame others, and forget,” he said, warning that without genuine reform, such tragedies would continue.
Khan also highlighted the neglect of Waziristan and other tribal areas, stressing the need for infrastructure and digital access for children in those regions. “Our children are growing up without basic educational tools,” he added.
He also demanded the resignation of a government official for disrespectful conduct during a Senate committee meeting, clarifying that his stance was not personal but in defense of marginalized communities.
Senator Vawda Demands Increased Defence Budget
In light of escalating tensions with India and recent security threats, Senator Faisal Vawda called for a substantial increase in the country’s defence budget. He proposed doubling the salaries of military personnel and diverting funds from development projects to bolster national defence.
“We need to tighten our belts and prioritize national security,” Vawda said. Highlighting Pakistan’s military response to Indian aggression and the reported deaths of 285 Indian soldiers, he argued that India’s military capacity requires Pakistan to reassess its strategic posture.
Vawda also emphasized the importance of political unity, urging all parties to come together in support of national security. “This mission can only succeed if all political factions unite under a single banner,” he concluded.
