Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi Holds Candle Vigil in Memory of APS Peshawar Martyrs

 By: Aziz Khatri

 Karachi: The Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi organized a solemn candle vigil ceremony at its lobby area to pay tribute to the martyrs of the Army Public School (APS) Peshawar tragedy. The event was held to honor the supreme sacrifices of the innocent children and teachers who lost their lives in one of the darkest chapters of the nation’s history.

President Arts Council Muhammad Ahmed Shah, along with members of the Governing Body, artists, intellectuals, and a large number of citizens, participated in the ceremony and lit candles in remembrance of the martyrs. Prominent figures associated with arts and culture attended in large numbers, reflecting collective grief and solidarity.

Addressing the gathering, President Muhammad Ahmed Shah said that the nation can never forget the tragedy in which 130 innocent children and 19 teachers were brutally martyred. He stated that every martyr of APS remains etched in the nation’s collective memory and conscience. He emphasized that the Pakistani nation stands united like a solid wall against terrorism and that enemies of peace have no right to take the lives of innocent children and civilians.

He added that the sacrifices of the martyrs strengthen the nation’s resolve and courage. Referring to recent regional tensions, he said that on May 7 a cowardly enemy once again attempted to impose war, but within a few days it became evident that the defence of Pakistan does not rest solely in the strong hands of the Pakistan Armed Forces, but also in the unwavering determination and unity of the country’s 250 million people.

Renowned poetess Dr Fatima Hassan, speaking on the occasion, said that children are like flowers, and as a mother she deeply feels the pain of the parents who sent their children to school, never imagining they would not return home. She strongly condemned the perpetrators of the APS attack, saying that those who mercilessly killed innocent children cannot be called human. She prayed that Allah Almighty protect Pakistan from the brutality and cruelty of such enemies.

The candle vigil concluded with collective prayers for the martyrs, their families, and the nation, along with a renewed pledge to remember their sacrifices and continue striving for peace, unity, and resilience across the country.