Maryam Nawaz cancels Basant events following deadly blast

ISLAMABAD: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced the cancellation of all her scheduled Basant-related activities for tomorrow following a deadly suicide bombing in the federal capital.

In a statement shared on social media platform X, Maryam Nawaz said that the mega Basant show at Liberty Square has also been called off in light of the tragic incident.

She emphasized that it is crucial for the nation to remain united against “Khawarij and their facilitators,” adding that no mercy will be shown to terrorists and no compromise will be made on Pakistan’s defense.

The attack took place during Friday prayers at Masjid and Imambargah Khadijat-ul-Kubra in Tralai, a suburban area of Islamabad. According to initial reports, around 32 people have been martyred while more than 169 sustained injuries.

Government sources confirmed that the suicide bomber has been identified, stating that he had received terrorist training in Afghanistan and had traveled there multiple times.