essay on aps peshawar attack in english

Remembering lives lost in the Peshawar school attack

• Under thirteen
• Age thirteen
• Age fourteen
• Age fifteen
• Age sixteen
• Seventeen to twenty
• Over twenty

DECEMBER 16 2014

When the nightmare unfolded, teachers and students of the Army Public School Peshawar had just returned to their classes after recess. Some students, including 18-year-old Yasir Iqbal, gathered in the large auditorium and were attentively listening to a lecture.

Others sat at their desks, eyes on the clock instead of the blackboard, silently urging for the hands to move faster for the day to end so they could go home. In grade one, it was six-year-old Khaula’s first day of school. She was overjoyed that she had finally joined her siblings instead of staying home. It would be her only day at school.

Khaula’s would become one of the 144 names—most of them children’s—on a long list created by a group of murderers that day at the school. The incomprehensibly high body count combined with the vulnerability of the victims make it the most horrific attack in Pakistan's history.

And while this number, 144, is a story unto itself, the 144 stories within it have to be told.

Eighth-grader Uzair Ali saw the attackers and leapt to shield his friends by lying on top of them. He was killed; shot 13 times, but he managed to save his companions. Fourteen-year-old Fahad Hussain opened a door so his friends could run out. He stayed by the door making sure everyone was evacuated. He was gunned down while doing so.

Below are 144 accounts, of courage and sadness of children, women and men whose absence will be forever painful, always remembered.

Khaula Bibi

Age: 6 Class: 1

Daughter of Altaf Hussain and Safoora Bibi Siblings: Samar (12), Shobaid (11) and Areeba (4)

Khaula was the youngest, and only female student killed in the horrific attack. According to her father, a teacher at APS, December 16 was Khaula’s first day at school. She had gained admission to class 1 a day earlier, and was excited to study at the same school as her siblings.

Her family describes little Khaula as a flower. Even at that tender age, she was passionate about education and was outspoken about the right of girls to go to school. She helped weak classmates with their English and Urdu. She persuaded a professor in her neighbourhood to send his daughter to school, and despite his vehement opposition, he melted. He was swayed by Khaula and her sweet words.

Her family is shattered. Her mother says she will never recover from the loss of her precious daughter.

Shahzad Ijaz

Age: 12 Class: 8

Son of Mian Ijaz Ahmed and Tahira Ijaz Siblings: Hina Ijaz (16), Zakriya Ijaz (12) and Bisma Ijaz (9)

Polite and studious, Shahzad had dreamed of becoming an airforce pilot. Rashid Minhas was his role model. Shahzad would collect pictures of the airforce, and loved reading books about fighter jets and air combat.

Shahzad enjoyed playing sports, especially cricket. Ahmed Shahzad was his favourite player. His younger brother Zakriya, who is a student at the APS, recalls how once in grade 7 Shahzad injured his arm during a football match but didn’t quit playing despite the fracture.

On the day of attack, Shahzad had woken up early, eager to put on his new clothes. The clothes were for his upcoming interview for PAF College. Shahzad had passed the college test with 90 per cent marks. The result arrived seven days after his passing.

Son of Nazir Ahmed and Shahnaz *Siblings: Laaraib (9), Shawaiz (6) and Shaheer (1)

Shahzeb always rushed home from school to dive into his computer games. He would save all his pocket money to buy CDs of the latest titles. When he switched off from the gaming world, he would listen to music and also read books.

Young Shahzeb also performed well when it came to his studies and secured high marks in his last exam. He won several medals in academics and extra-curricular activities.

Remembered by his father as a brave boy, Shahzeb chose the lives of his friends over his own. His classmate Samiullah says Shahzeb saved him and their other friends during the massacre.

Ziaullah Islam

Son of Naik Abdul Qadir and Nishaat Qadir *Siblings: Shehnaz Shabnam (17), Moin ul Islam (15), Nayab Sadaf (13), Aiman (9) and Muhammad Talha (6)

Ziaullah wanted to become an electrical engineer when he grew up. He never missed the opportunity to try and repair electrical appliances at home.

Ziaullah's teacher recalls that the boy loved maths, and always talked about wanting to invent interesting machines such as an electric car.

Naturally, Ziaullah was an avid fan of the racing game Need for Speed.

He was very close to his mother and called her his best friend. One of his favourite activities was visiting the bazaar inside Peshawar Cantonment to sip on hot corn soup with his brother.

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Ahmed Ali Shah

Age: 13 Class: 8

Son of Khalid Mehmood (late) and Jameela Kosar Siblings: Mohammad Ahmed (12)

Ahmed was wise beyond his years, his mother says, possibly because he lost his father when he was 4-years-old. He had assumed a tremendous responsibility at a young age, as a result of which, unlike other children his age, he would not ask his mother to buy him anything.

Bright and studious, Ahmed had a beautiful singing voice. He was often called upon to recite Naats. He would detail his future plans to his mother; he wanted to become an auto engineer. He would sketch designs and tell his mother he would build real cars one day.

His mother says he was an old soul, and because of his love for poetry, his mother would often lovingly refer to him as Shair, Ashfaq Ahmed. After his father, he took care of me, his mother says.

Azaan Toraylay

Age: 13 Class: 9

Son of Major (retd) Sohailur Rahman and Zil-i-Huma Gul Sohail * Siblings: Hayan Nangyalay (19), Hassaan Baryalay (17), Aman Gul Sohail (14) and Wadan Numyalay (8)*

Azaan Toraylay was true to his name (means brave in Pashto). Azaan wished to join the Pakistan Army like his father. Once, he even performed guard duty when his father’s vehicle gave way in Shikarpur on the Grand Trunk road. His father says Azaan kept watch through the night so he and his friends could sleep.

Azaan was also fond of keeping pets. His father recalls how when Azaan passed, his pet dog was saddened to the extent that he got sick, and for about 20 days, refused to eat any food. Young Azaan was also fond of playing cricket. He would urge his father to arrange informal cricket tournaments with his friends.

Proud of Azaan, his family regards him as a brave boy. But the tears in their eyes betray how with him gone, their life has changed so much.

Fahid Hussain

Son of Hussain and Seema Nawab

For Fahid’s parents, he was something of a gift. He was their only child and they cherished every moment they spent with him.

His parents shifted from their village to Peshawar so Fahid could get a good education. He wanted to be an Air Force pilot.

He loved sports, especially basketball and cricket. He was part of the school team and also played in the neighbourhood. He prayed to God to give him another sibling to practice with. His parents are devastated by the death of their son.

Son of Shehnaz and Muhammad Nasir Gul Siblings: Emaan (12), Warda Nasir (10), Khushbakht Nasir (7) and Waresha Nasir (4)

Gul Sher was a good student. He was House Captain at his school and hoped to be a doctor some day. He wanted to be a famous heart surgeon and open hospital that would treat patients free of charge.

He loved playing football and would often take his football shoes to school. According to his mother, he was particular about being tidy and dressed like a gentleman. He wouldn’t use a bathroom if it was not clean.

He liked parrots but did not have pets as he didn’t want to keep them in cages. He had a good memory and was always the one to remind his friends and relatives about the birthdays of others.

Hamid Ali Khan

Son of Sher Ali Khan and Farman Nissah Siblings: Sidra Ali Khan (16), Jawad Ali Khan (11) and Sana Ali Khan (4)

Hamid was a charming young boy. He was soft-spoken and had the kindest heart. He was an excellent student and was popular at school. He loved his little sister Sana very much. He wanted to be a doctor and open a hospital for the poor.

He was fond of animals. His brother Jawad says Hamid once adopted an injured puppy that he saw out on the streets. He took the puppy to the vet, despite the clinic being far away from their home, and nursed him back to health.

The family says it is painful for them to live without Hamid, who was the light of their lives.

Hammad Malik

Age: 13.5 Class: 8

Son of Erum and Tahir Anees Malik Sibling: Kashaf Anees Malik (11)

Hammad loved horses and was an excellent horse rider.

His uncle had bought several horses in his Punjab village so Hammad could practice riding. He took part in a competition in Lahore and won a trophy.

His other hobby was collecting coins and antiques. He would decorate them all over tables and cupboards at the house.

Muhammad Azhar Naseer

Age: 13 Class: 10

Son of Muhammad Naseer and Mussarat Bibi Siblings: Saba Naseer (13), Nouman Naseer (12) and Kawal Naseer (11)

Azhar dreamt of becoming a doctor and providing free treatment to the poor. Biology was his favourite class at school and he always topped with 90pc marks.

Topping his last exam on Dec 12, Azhar's family had planned a function on Dec 16 ─ the day of the attack.

Azhar was a kindhearted and and softspoken boy. Once during a trip to the family village, he saw a puppy trapped in bushes during a rainstorm in freezing cold weather. The place was slippery and dangerous, his father says, but he brought the puppy home and fed and cared for it. The next day, he returned it to its mother.

His father says whenever he meets Azhar’s friends, he misses his son very much.

Rizwan Sareer

Son of Nargis Begum and Lt. Col Sareer Khan Siblings: Nauman Sareer (19), Salman Sareer (18)

Hailing from Charsadda, Rizwan was as big cricket fan. His brother, with whom he shared a room, said that they often played cricket in the bedroom. After his passing, he says he can never play again.

Rizwan’s father shares while Rizwan was playing in a public garden he found Rs2,000 dropped by someone. He was only in the second grade at the time but he promptly went to the reception and handed the money over to the guard, telling him to give it to the owner if he came looking.

His parents say they feel their son’s loss deeply, but are proud of the life that he has lived.

Wahab ud Din

Son of Rakshanda and Kabir ud Din Siblings: Sana (23) and Shahab ud Din (21)

For Wahab’s father, the loss of his youngest son was too much too bear. Two months after the horrific attack, his father’s health took a turn for the worse. He passed away.

His mother says her son was a studious child who worked late into the night. She also says he was very sensitive to his parents needs. He was close to his father, and would often discuss his passion for science and research with him. He wanted to become a scientist.

He loved cats. He took care of many strays, giving them milk and preparing special meals for them.

The family is shattered by this tragedy. They have lost the sole bread earner. Wahab’s mother prays for better days.

Wasif Ali Khattak

Son of Captain Ali Khan Khattak and Shahnoon Siblings: Asim (24), Laiba (22), Saqib (20) and Asif Siraj (19)

Wasif was the youngest of five siblings and for this reason, all his demands and wishes were met by his parents and siblings.

He loved animals. He once saw a puppy drowning in a canal and jumped in to rescue it.

He aspired to become a doctor when he grew up. He wanted to work in his village of Gundi Mirah Khan Khel Khattak. He would often tell his brother of his dream to establish a free treatment clinic in the village after he secured an MBBS degree.

His parents say they miss him dearly and wish he was with them every day.

Son of Hav. Nasirullah and Razia Bibi Siblings: Tahirullah (12), Mansha Nasir (10), Insha Nasir (7) and Aliza Nasir (3)

A punctual and studious child, Yasirullah had originally aspired to be a doctor. But after being selected to attend Cadet College he decided he wanted to become an army soldier.

Hailing from Chitral, young Yasirullah enjoyed playing sports and won many medals and awards in cricket, badminton and football.

Yasirullah’s best friend was his cousin Syed Zulqarnain Shah. Both boys were killed in the auditorium. His father says every time he sees his son’s remaining friends, he misses Yasirullah.

Abdullah Ghani Awan

Age: 14 Class: 8

Son of Lubna Tanveer and Tanveer Ahmed Awan Siblings: Haroon Ghani Awan (19), Mohammad Tayyab Ghani Awan (11) and Dil Awan (10)

Abdullah truly loved animals. He kept parrots, hens, rabbits and fish at home. When the hens laid eggs, he eagerly waited to see them hatch so he could play with the chicks. A dozen chicks were born just recently, but Abdullah was not there to see them.

His father says he was close to Abdullah, and that he would seek his son’s opinion each time he dressed up to go out. He says he would only wear waistcoats when Abdullah approved the colour.

He recalls a time in the UAE, when he dared Abdullah to swim in a hotel pool that had strict rules regarding swimwear. He said Abdullah had a word with the lifeguard, and jumped right in fully clothed. He loved to take up a good challenge.

Adil Shahzad

Age: 14 Class: 9

Son of Muhammad Younas and Azra Bibi Siblings: Afan Shahzad (12), Aliza Shahzad (9) and Ahmed Ali (6)

A clever and responsible child, Adil Shahzad was the eldest of four children and regarded as a role model by his siblings and cousins.

Adil wanted to be a professor and aspired to get a PhD degree. A bright student, he enjoyed English, Urdu and Islamiat. He was also a good athlete, but had fractured both legs in 2010, making running difficult.

Adil was fond of the outdoors and picnics and tours with friends whenever he visited his village. Among Adil’s favourite foods were the milk and curd of his village, and the apples, bananas and oranges which grew there.

Adil and his siblings watched Doraemon together, his favourite cartoon. His family members are proud of him and miss him every day.

Ailian Fozan

Son of Muhammad Fozan Shafi and Ayesha Fozan Siblings: Famia Fozan (16) and Fiza Fozan (9)

Ailian spent every spare moment of his time riding his bicycle. I had decided what bicycle model I was going to buy him after his exams, his father said.

Active and sociable, Ailian was a good student too. His parents proudly display his letters of appreciation and certificates. He had planned to join the Pakistan Air Force.

Ammar Iqbal

Son of Mr. and Mrs. Nauman Iqbal

Ammar Iqbal's family could not be contacted for this obituary.

His teachers describe Ammar as an intelligent and obedient student.

Miss Jameela says he had a jovial disposition and teased both students and members of staff.

He was a hard worker and outstanding in his studies. He wanted to become a surgeon.

Son of Sanaullah Khan Khattak and Noreen Sana Siblings: Shaheer Khan (24), Zawat Khan (23) and Yashfeen Khan (19)

The youngest of four siblings, Arham was a brilliant student who had earned a double promotion from grade 6 to grade 8.

He took a keen interest in computers and was just learning to chat through Skype and Facebook.

His favourite food was Peshawar’s popular Chappali Kababs, which he would often ask his father to get for him on his way home from work.

Even at his young age, Arham would play the role of mediator if his siblings quarreled, and was the one who would help them patch up after an argument.

His family, especially his father, misses their young boy very much. Mr Khattak often goes to his son’s room to clean it just as Arham liked it.

Atif ur Rehman

Son of Wazir Rehman and Bibi Zahra

Atif ur Rehman, the youngest of eight siblings, aspired to be a doctor and serve the residents of his village. His elder brother facilitated Atif’s move from their village to Peshawar for his studies.

A technology enthusiast, he enjoyed watching informative documentaries about gadgets and playing computer games. The responsible and soft-spoken teenager also liked playing cricket and football and was an avid Justin Bieber fan.

His elder brother says he feels Atif’s absence every day. He says after the family lost Atif, they were going through his schoolbooks and found he had written: “I love you, Dad. If anything happens, I would not let you down before anyone.”

Awais Ahmed

Son of Sub Ikramullah and Hameeda Ahmed Siblings: Ishfaq Ahmed (26), Nazia Ahmed (25), Shahab Ahmed (23), Waqas Ahmed (18), Zeeshan Ahmed (17) and Nimra Ahmed (8)

A respectful and empathetic child, Awais wanted to study medicine and become a doctor. He often lamented the condition of hospitals, particularly those in villages, and hoped to do his bit in improving and reforming systems.

Awais was the youngest among the sons, and his father, who has lost two sons to the massacre, remembers him as his most intelligent child. He was very good in maths and helped his siblings in academics.

Young Awais was also fond of keeping pets. At one point, he had two pigeons that he looked after and when one of them died, Awais couldn’t eat anything out of grief.

Awais Nasir

Son of Jamal Abdul Nasir and Rozeena Nasir Siblings: Hira Nasir (20), Sana Nasir (17), Haris (12) and Abdul Nasir (11)

Awais was of a happy disposition. Although almost always in a jocular mood, he remained respectful of elders. He was also a responsible brother of four siblings, and would never hit back when squabbles with his brothers would get a little out of hand.

Shaken by the death of his son, Jamal Abdul Nasir talks about how Awais loved dressing well. It was only three days before his son’s passing that Jamal had brought him three new suits from his trip to China. Those suits could never be worn by his son.

Awais was very close to his mother. His epitaph says “da moor bachay” (Pashto for son of the mother). He went to see the plot of land the family had bought t construct a home on, the day before his passing. He had asked his mother when the construction would begin, to which she said "after Ramazan". At the time Awais said he may not be alive to see it.

Son of Rashid Ali Bangash and Shehla Rashid Siblings: Alia Rashid (22), Humaira Rashid (22), Babar Ali Khan (19) and Uzma Rashid (17)

Be it a Spelling Bee or excellence in Arts, Baqir was an extraordinary student. He was so fond of reading, that he would finish his work and read books from his elder sister’s school curriculum. He had a superb memory and wanted to put it to good use by becoming a doctor.

Unlike other children his age, Baqir was a serious child. His father says he did not crack jokes and had a mature personality. His siblings describe him as a child who was always curious about knowing more.

He was dear to his parents and siblings as he was the youngest in the family. “We are missing your voice, your chuckle, your presence and all the fun we used to have,” his sisters say.

Fahad Hussain

Son of Akhtar and Sameena Hussain Siblings: Ahmed Hussain (17), Uzair Hussain (16) and Asim Hussain (9)

Fahad was killed the day of his birthday. The night before the attack, he had invited his friends and cousins to celebrate his birthday at home.

His friend Rehman describes his friend's bravery on the day of the attack. When militants entered the classroom and opened fire, Fahad opened the door and asked all his friends to run out. He stood at the door and made sure his classmates evacuated the room. It was then that he was hit on the head and leg.

He called out to the others to tell his brother Ahmed, also a student at the school, to come help him. But it was too late.

Fazal Raheem

Son of Muhammad Usman and Mrs Usman Siblings: Mohammad Faisal (22), Mohammad Faheem (21), Momna (19) and Nemra (12)

Fazal took admission in APS for the sole purpose of joining the Pakistan Army as an officer.

He enjoyed cricket and often played against his brothers on the roof of his house as their father forbid them from playing in the streets. He also liked horse-riding and often went to parks for the very purpose. Fazal was also a skilled guitar player.

He was closest to his mother. All the children in the family were given a weekly allowance of Rs50 but Fazal, according to his father, finished his pocket money in a single day and would come asking for more. When his father refused him once, he rushed to his mother and said in jest, “Why couldn’t you marry someone else?”

Muhammad Furqan Haider

Son of Farhad Ali Bangash and Raheela Khatoon Siblings: Nargis Batool (13) Fatma Batool (10) and Mohammad Zulqarnain Haider (8)

Furqan resided with his family in UAE but a year before his death, he took admission at APS to fulfill his ambition of joining the Pakistan Army. During that time he lived with his uncle in Peshawar, whose eyes fill with tears as he remembers his nephew. Even if somebody spoke to him harshly, he would never lose his patience or smile, his uncle says. “He was a good boy.”

Furqan was fond of babies and often took care of his younger siblings and cousins. He also loved baby chicks and would often bring them home.

He enjoyed watching and playing cricket. If there was a power breakdown, he would run to his neighbour’s, who had a generator, to continue watching the match.

Hamayun Iqbal

Son of Mr. and Mrs. Mohammad Iqbal Sibling: Sadia Iqbal (19), Palwasha Iqbal (17), Nafeesa Iqbal (15),Usman Iqbal (13), Shabir Iqbal (11) and Ali Iqbal (4)

Hamayun was a naughty but loved student. At least once a week, his father would be called to the school due to this trouble-making boy.

He says the minute he would reach the gate, the gate keeper, watchman, gardener, teacher and head teacher would start off, full of complaints about him. But because he was a good student, no one ever became angry with him. He was known in school as “Italian boy”.

He was close to his father and had a special bond with his grandfather Haji Saddar Azam. Humayun’s father says his grandfather had not been able to the bear the loss of his beloved grandson and grows weaker each day.

Son of Nasreen Saif and Saifullah Khan Siblings: Naeem Saif (26), Khalid Saif (24), Sajid Saif (21) and Aamir Saif (18)

The son of a soldier, Hamid was a star student. He was given awards and prizes for best English vocabulary and essay writing as well as best picture memory and earth day poster. He also won a Best Young Journalist certificate.

On the day of the attack, he had prepared a presentation and asked his uncle to pray it is the best in the class.

His teachers said he had leadership qualities as he was parade commander at school and was also selected to be proctor.

He used to joke with his father and lovingly call him by his first name, a gesture his father says he will never forget.

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Hamza Kamran

Son of Muhammad Kamran Shafi and Najma Kamran Siblings: Momina Kamran (18) and Hira Kamran (16)

Hamza was a studious child. He had held several positions in his class and had also won many awards for sports and other activities.

The only brother of two sisters and close to his mother, Hamza would eat whatever meals were cooked at home but did particularly enjoy burgers and karhai gosht.

His parents recall how the one month the family spent together during Hajj last year created fond memories for them now that Hamza is no more. During Hajj, Hamza looked after two old ladies, helped them with their wheelchairs and made sure they were comfortable.

Haris Nawaz

Son of Mr. and Mrs. Muhammad Nawaz Sibling: Ahmad Nawaz (15)

Haris and his brother Ahmad were both targeted the day of the attack. While Ahmad was grievously injured and later treated at a UK hospital, Haris lost his life.

He was an intelligent child and bagged top positions from nursery till class eight. His room is full of certificates and medals.

His parents describe their boy as an obedient and respectful child. He wanted to grow up and be a doctor. He dreamt of opening a hospital that treated the poor free of charge.

Hasnain Sharif

Son of Mr. and Mrs. Sharif Gul

Hasnain was an only child. When asked to talk about his son, his father says he is unable to express his sorrow. He had big dreams for his son. He hoped that Hasnain would complete his studies and work hard to make a mark in society.

Hasnain loved to visit his village, where he played for hours with the baby farm animals. He was quite particular about his clothes and would often ask his father to buy him new outfits.

His mother was unable to speak. She misses her son very much.

Khushnood Zeb

Son of Rana Aurangzeb and Ruqia Bibil Siblings: Rana Sana Zeb (20), Hafiz Rana Muhammad Aftab Zeb (16) and Rana Muhammad Mehtab Zeb (16)

According to his father, Rana was a brilliant student and had excellent oratory, reading and writing skills.

Rana wanted to become an army engineer and serve the nation. He idolized cricketer Shahid Afridi and would try to emulate his style. Among politicians, he liked Imran Khan and would often do a parody of him.

The family finds it hard to accept that their son is dead. They say it is still hard to eat or laugh the way they did when he was alive.

Muhammad Abdullah Zafar

Son of Mr. and Mrs. Muhammad Arshad Zafar Siblings: Muhammad Obaid (12) and Ali Musa (4)

Although a child, Abdullah could not really enjoy the carefree days of youth; his father died when he was just 12. He did not play pranks or act naughty like most other children his age, his mother says as she describes how he looked after the family. When everyone slept at night, Abdullah would wake up and make sure all the doors of the house were locked.

He was close to his mother and his love reflects in the many drawings he made to thank her.

Aspiring to join the army, Abdullah was also a position holder and would always remain among the top five students in his class. Not only was he bright, he was also creative in his thinking and had made a mathematical formula for his studies.

Muhammad Ghasaan Khan

Son of Amin Khan and Bibi Ayesha Siblings: Saima Amin (18), Palwasha Amin (18), Sawera Amin (16) and Mohammad Sharim Khan (12)

Known as the young scientist of the school, Ghasaan was a bright student and a position holder in his class.

He was creative and his father, who is a PHD scholar, says that Ghasaan’s writing was impeccable and barely needed any correction. He was fond of writing poetry in both English and Urdu languages.

Ghasaan’s teachers also recognised how bright he was and called him the teachers’ motivator.

Ghasaan’s father tells that on the day of exam result, the school guards and gatekeepers would wait for him as he would always distribute a special meal.

Muhammad Haris Khan

Son of Ghulam Din and Shahida Nasreen Siblings: Faisal (15), Usman (10), Faizan (Late, 3)

Haris’ death crushed his family. For his parents, it was the second time they had lost a child, as their son Faizan had passed away at age three.

His mother describes Haris as an obedient child who did everything for her the moment she asked. She says he was a responsible boy, who took care of her after the death of her first son. She adds that they were more best friends than mother and child.

She says that while she kisses her children goodbye before they leave for school, that fateful day she did not kiss Haris as he was running late – something she deeply regrets.

His family struggles to cope with the loss of a second precious member.

Muhammad Salman

Son of Muhammad Ikram and Hameeda Bibi Siblings: Abdur Rehman (7), Ayesha (9 ) and Madeeha (2)

The eldest among his siblings, Muhammad Salman aspired to become a doctor and his father was prepared to send him abroad to study medicine in case he failed to secure a position within Pakistan.

He enjoyed playing cricket and was good at the game. However, riding bikes was his favourite past-time. His father remembers how Salman would look for any opportunity to go out on the bike.

A jovial child, Salman cracked jokes all the time and would do parodies of famous actors and celebrities. He was very close to his grandfather and since Salman’s death, his grandfather’s health has been deteriorating.

Muhammad Tayyab Fawad

Son of Mr. and Mrs. Muhammad Fawad Siblings: Dursham Fawad (12) and Manahel Fawad (10)

A position holder in his class, Tayyab was not only bright when it came to studies but was also a very good volley ball player. He had won several awards.

His father tells how Tayyab was short-tempered and would do things in a hurry but at the same time made sure he didn’t get angry in front of his father.

Tayyab lost his mother in 2009 and at a very young age after which his grandmother looked after him. He learned many things by himself, such as riding a bike and using the computer. His family misses him.

Nangyal Tariq

Son of Tariq Jan and Shagufta Tariq Siblings: Mehwish Tariq age (18), Sohail Tariq (13) and Sawail Tariq (7)

For the most part, Nangyal Tariq was a somber boy but he would on occasion crack jokes to make his family members laugh. He showed a keen interest in studies and wanted to become an Army Captain.

He liked experimenting with his hair, and would often come up new hairstyles, his mother says.

Nangyal was affectionately called Sher Khan – he loved being addressed by his pet name. His family says that if he was ever unresponsive, the trick was to call him ‘Sher Khan’ to get his attention.

Muhammad Shaheer Khan

Son of Shagufta and Muhammad Tahir Khan Siblings: Mumna Khan (20), Mohammad Munib Khan (16) and Tooba (12)

Shaheer’s mother finds it hard to come to terms with the senseless killing of her son. She still keeps the tie he wore to school that morning, which now has visible tears from the bullets.

Shaheer was a naughty student. He loved computer games and had been begging his parents to buy him a PlayStation 4, which costs Rs48,000. When his parents told him he could only buy it if he did well on his exams, mischievous Shaheer prepared a hand written report card in order to claim his gift.

The family say they are trying to be brave but they miss their boy terribly.

Sahibzada Omer Khan

Son of Fazal Mohammad Khan and Zaib-un-Nisa Siblings: Sahibzada Afrasiab Khan (11), Sahibzadi Mishal Khan (6), Sahibzadi Aleena (4) and Sahibazada Jasem (9 months)

The eldest of five siblings, Omer played the role of the responsible older brother. His parents say he was an extraordinary son. He knew what they needed even before the said a word.

If his mother was busy with household chores, he would cook for his father and siblings. He was called the ‘leader of the house’. On the weekend, he would wake up early morning and wash his father’s cars without being asked.

Omer’s mother wakes up every night, searching for her son. The family prays for strength and say he is in a better place.

Saif Ullah Durrani

Son of Tehseen Ullah Durrani and Falak Naz Siblings: Sana (19), Hafsa (17) and Ammara (11)

Saif Ullah Durrani was known as ‘Potato’ to his classmates because of his love for the spud. He was very fond of food.

He and his brother often competed with each other to offer regular prayers at the mosque. Keeping the mosque clean and rendering other services to it was important to him.

His sister says he was naughty, which other children liked. Every time she asked him to bring something for her, he would ask for a commission, refusing to do so otherwise.

His father says his son would not eat lunch or dinner unless the gardeners, gatekeepers and drivers had theirs. He would personally go to them and ask them if they had eaten, and if any one hadn’t, he would request his mother to prepare a meal for them.

Shahood Alam

Son of Mr. and Mrs. Zahoor Sibling: Aresha Alam (13)

Shahood was an extraordinary student. With nearly 50 certificates and awards to his credit, it is no surprise that the young boy was a prominent figure at school as the proctor and ‘peacekeeper’.

His teachers remember him as the ‘shining star’ of the school. He hoped to take his CSS exams and work in Pakistan’s civil services.

Shahood was very responsible, and had opened a bank account and got a passport made for himself. His parents, who keep his cheque books and passport with them, say he had saved thousands of rupees in his bank account.

Son of Zuman Bibi and Masha Din Siblings: Shah Mohammad (16) and Saad Mohammad (8)

Sher Nawaz was a considerate and kind boy. He believed in living a modest existence and never asked his parents for more money than was required.

According to his father, whenever Sher Nawaz went to visit his relatives, they would be full of praise for his good manners.

Sher Nawaz was also very helpful around the house. When he came home from school, he would help his mother in the kitchen, wash the dishes and clothes and knead the dough for cooking roti.

Syed Mujahid Hussain Shah

Son of Zaib Hussain Shah and Sadia Bibi (late) Siblings: Shahid Hussain Shah (15), Majid Hussain Shah (11), Maryum (9), Maria (7) and Fawad (1)

When his mother died, Zahid took it upon himself to take care of his siblings. He never wanted them to feel her absence, so he showered them with love. His youngest sister Maria was his favourite.

His father says Zahid was an ordinary student; he worked tremendously hard. His best subject was English. He was fond of skating. His father bought him a pair of skates much to his delight, so he would often be seen skating outside the house.

His family says losing him has made them very bitter, but they pray for endurance and for better days.

Son of Mr. and Mrs. Muhammad Akram Shah Siblings: Sundas Shah (13) and Ali Anis (9)

A native of the Nowshera district, Ali is described by his parents as a polite and considerate child who did not make demands of them as other children sometimes do. Whether it was clothes or other gifts, he was content with whatever he was given.

If there was one thing he was particular about, it was his appearance – especially his hair and skin. He had a special oil and cream for his hair and skin.

He was very close to his mother and grandmother, with whom he shared a special bond. Sometimes in the winter, he would tease his grandmother by switching the fan on and removing her blanket. She would lovingly make sweet parathas for her grandson.

His absence in their lives is felt every day. His sister and mother weep for Ali and say they will never forget him.

Sohail Aslam

Son of Hav. Muhammad Aslam and Sakeem Aslam Siblings: Muhammad Zohaib Aslam (9) and Muhammad Zeeshan Aslam (5)

Eldest among the siblings, Sohail was a responsible and caring child. Being the eldest, he was closer to his parents and would help them out in looking after the younger siblings and helping his mother in the kitchen. Sohail was very close to his brother Zohaib.

Sohail was a bright student and wanted to study in LUMS after high school. He began attending APS in November 2014, soon after his father’s transfer to Peshawar.

Sohail’s father remembers how his son made tea for the parents on the morning of Dec 16. He remembers Sohail to be really happy at the time.

Syed Husnain Shah

Son of Syed Fazal Hussain and Saima Fazal Hussain Sibling: Syed Talib Hasnain (11 months)

Husnain had big dreams. He had a passion for science and engineering and wanted to invent something that would change the world.

According to his mother, Husnain was the ‘perfect son’ who would always help her around the house.

“He always joked around with me and always made me laugh,” Husnain’s mother says.

Tanveer Hussain

Son of Naib Subidar (retd) Atta Mohammad and Jatti Bibi Siblings: Mehwish Nasim (17), Khawar Shahzad (16) and Mohammad Faraz (12)

Aspiring to become a doctor and serve the people of his native village, Tanveer was a bright and responsible child. Although young, he was heavily relied upon by his siblings, both older and younger, for help with their homework.

Tanveer was a good debater and would often partake in debating competitions. His father recalls how Tanveer had won many medals and how he himself wrote and worked on concepts for his debates.

His father remembers how Tanveer would also help his mother out in house chores and was a source of support to all members of the family.

Uzair Ahmad

Son of Zahoor Ahmed and Farahnaz Siblings: Tahira (13) and Fatma (2)

Uzair was a big wrestling fan. He loved watching matches and also collected figures and photos of famous wrestlers in an album.

He was an obedient son and was respectful of his elders. He was very close to his mother. His father recalls how, every day when he would return from work, Uzair would wait at the gate and jump onto his shoulders to greet him. They would often sit in the garden and talk about their day.

Uzair's family says their lives seem to have come to a standstill without him.

Mohammad Uzair Ali

Son of Gulab Perveen and Ahmad Ali Siblings: Malaika Ali (11) and Mohammad Jalal Ibrahim (7.5)

Mohammad Uzair Ali was a brave boy. His friends say on the day of the attack he fell atop them, shielding them from harm. This is why, according to the medical officer, Uzair was hit with 13 bullets.

That day, he had been told off by his history teacher. In a light-hearted way, Uzair said to her, “Miss, today you did not wear make-up, that’s why you are angry. Please, wear make-up! When you do, you are in a good mood.”

He was very dear to his grandfather, Haji Ali Khan and both were like best friends. His mother says her son was a generous boy, and once gave Rs120 to a poor woman who was begging on the street for blood pressure medication.

Umair Arshad

Son of Arshad Ali and Salma Arshad Siblings: Ayesha Arshad (17), Sumayya Arshad (14), Muhammad Uzair Arshad (9) and Mohammad Zubair Arshad (5)

The son of a soldier, Umair aspired to become an airforce pilot. He used to collect pictures and information on fighter jets used by Pakistan and other countries. For his age, he had a good understanding of what it takes to be a soldier in a country marred by terror.

Umair was also very fond of race cars and heavy bikes and loved collecting pictures of these vehicles. His father remembers how he had bought a bike for Umair and wanted to surprise him but it was not to be. It was the day of the APS attack. Umair’s bike stands by the porch of his house, still unused.

Abrar Hussain

Age: 15 Class: 9

Son of Rajab Ali Rajab Ali and Roqqaya Bibi Siblings: Muntazer Hussain (29), Arif Hussain (25), Jamshed Ali (23) and Sajda Hussain (18)

With his nose buried in textbooks, Abrar Hussain was fiercely competitive academically.

A hostel student at APS, he was top of his class for nine years straight. Whenever he returned to his village, he'd be found studying instead of mingling with friends. Every year, the school would call his parents in to show them his achievements.

According to his father, Abrar was always worried about coming second. If he wasn't studying, he'd be found at home, curled up in a quiet corner reading.

Ahmad Elahi

Son of Mehfooz Elahi and Sumeer Sadiqi Siblings: Faseeha Elahi (17) and Mohammad Elahi (13)

Ahmad was a position holder; he aspired to be a surgeon. His mother says he was very religious and offered all his prayers at the mosque. In fact, he would try to reach the mosque early so that he could recite the Azan.

He liked to play cricket with his friends but more than anything else, he loved his parrots. Just a few days before the attack he had bought a brand new cage for them.

Each night, before going to sleep, Ahmad had made it a habit to crawl into his mother’s bed and make sure he hadn’t said or done anything to hurt her. "If I did, I apologise for it."

Ahmad Mujtaba

Age: 15 Class: 8

Son of M. Anwar Khan and Nayab Anwar Siblings: Ahmad Murtaza (9), Iqra Anwar (18) and Javeria Anwar (16)

Mujtaba was a shy, quiet boy who hoped to join the Pakistan Army as a doctor one day. His best friends were his siblings.

The only time he did shed his shy demeanor was when he played cricket. He loved the sport with a passion.

But if there was anything Mujtaba loved more than cricket, it was brand new clothes; he loved the way they looked on him. For this reason, his father got four suits tailor-made for him. They hang in his wardrobe, unworn.

Son of Mr. and Mrs. Dost Mohammad Siblings: Tariq (31), Liaqat (29), Tahir (26), Rashid (24), Shahid (21) and Asia Bibi (19)

Asad was the ‘brightest child’ in the family and also the most athletic. Four days before the 15-year-old passed away in the attack, he had won a medal in table tennis.

In the summer of 2013, Asad and his family went out to spend the day by the river.

The young boy had just come out of the water a long swim when his cousin Zeeshan was swept up by a current and was going to drown. Without losing his calm, Asad jumped into the water and managed to pull his cousin out alive. He was a savior.

Asfand Khan

Age: 15 Class: 10

Son of Ajoon Khan and Shahana Bibi Siblings: Mohammad Wadan Khan (5) and Mahrosha Khan (12)

A quiet but confident teenager, Asfand Khan aspired to become a lawyer one day. He was also very passionate about driving and training at the gym.

Unlike most boys his age, Asfand liked being solitary and would spend most of his free time in his room. His respectful demeanor earned him love from elders and admiration of those younger to him.

In his father’s absence, Asfand took on the role of the man of the family. He would shoulder his father’s responsibilities and take care of his mother and siblings. “After my son’s shahadat, I will have to start my life from scratch,” his father says.

Bahram Ahmad Khan

Son of Lt-Col Gulzar Ahmad Khan and Nosheen Gulzar Siblings: Hassan Ahmad Khan (9) and Zaryab Ahmad Khan (19)

Bahram wanted to become a doctor and spend his life serving the underprivileged. Empathetic by nature, he was always moved when a disaster struck somewhere.

Bahram secured 91% in his last exam. This distinction was aside from the various medals he had won in academics and extra-curricular activities.

His father recalls a story Bahram’s friends shared from the APS attack. During the attack, a friend of Bahram fell to the floor and broke his glasses due to which he could barely see. Bahram came back to get him but on their way out was stopped by a terrorist. His friends recall that Bahram pushed the terrorist and received two bullets in the chest which resulted in his death.

Basit Ali Sardar

Son of Sardar Ali and Sadaf Sardar Siblings: Kiran Sardar (18), Irum Sardar (16) and Basharar Ali Sardar (12)

Basit Ali Sardar was no ordinary boy. His mother remembers him as a very considerate son who would assist her in household chores and especially in the kitchen. He would even prepare tea and meals for guests.

He was very attached to his family and would frequently travel to his village where his grandparents are still live.

Basit wanted to join the army as an officer. Failing the test once, he was selected to join cadet college on his second try. The selection letter was received by his parents after Basit’s passing.

Farhan Jalal

Son of Jalal Bayar and Syeda Begum Siblings: Hassan Hasrat Jabeen (30), Asfandyar (29), Sheryar (28), Siyar (27), Arshanyar (26), Naveeda (18), Kashif (17) and Taif (16)

On the day of the attack, Farhan saved his brother. When he saw the attackers enter the auditorium and open fire, he pushed Taif to the floor and protected him, but lost his life in doing so.

According to his father, Farhan was the most outstanding of his nine children. He may have been the youngest but he was the most intelligent and active. He was very close to Taif, who is just a year older than him.

Farhan wanted to be a fighter pilot when he grew up. He watched videos of fighter jets for hours on end. While he loved to read books, his favourite pastime was playing video games. Project I.G.I and Grand Theft Auto were his top picks.

Muhammad Waqar

Son of Muhammad Raiz and Rukhsana Raiz Siblings: Muhammad Hamza (18), Muhammad Asim (13), Muhammad Haris (6) and Maryam (12)

Innately gifted, Waqar only had to scan his books once to be able to write a stellar exam and earn a position in his school. But along with academics, he loved extra-curricular activities; he won several laurels.

Waqar was a Qari and had learnt five siparahs of the Holy Quran by heart; he also offered prayers five times a day. He enjoyed both playing and watching cricket.

He was devoted to his parents, and loved them immensely. His father Muhammad Riaz weeps while recalling his son’s many talents. Waqar’s mother, he says, still takes out her son’s belongings every day.

Haider Amin

Son of Muhammad and Sofia Amin Siblings: Saba (19), Laiqa (8) and Laiba (6)

Haider was closest to his sister Saba. She says he was a disciplined person who never left for tomorrow what could be done today.

He was a good student and aspired to be a soldier some day. He loved watching military videos. He was an avid footballer.

He played at school as well as after home time in a ground near his home.

His sisters weep for their dear Haider. Life is not the same without him.

Hamza Ali Kakar

Son of Kosar Ali Kakar and Salma Javed Siblings: Sara Ali Kakar (11) and Ayesha Ali Kakar (8)

A dedicated student, a position holder, a parade commander in school, Hamza was known among friends as 'Captain'. He held a great desire to join the army.

Like boys his age, he was fond of fast food and BBQ, with pizza, chicken tikka, biryani and seekh kebab being his favourites. Hamza was also fond of travelling outside the city and would visit Nathia Gali once a month.

He was a respectful and loving boy who was close to his father. Hamza’s father recalls how his son had asked him to get him a pet chicken and goat for him upon clearing his exam. Hamza finally got his pets, just three days before the attack.

Hayatullah Sikandar

Son Lt Col. Sikandar Hayat and Mrs Hayat Siblings: Hira Sikandar (21) and Hamza Sikandar (19)

Born to an army officer, Hayatullah’s desire to serve the nation ran in his blood. He wanted to join the Pakistan Army but his parents wished for him to become a doctor instead.

According to his father, Hayatullah was bold and confident and surprised elders with his quick intelligence. He loved automobiles, and would often surf the Internet for new car models.

He excelled in both studies and extra-curricular activities and had won several medals for his achievements. Adept at both football and basketball, he captained his house basketball team. Four days before his death, he had won the title of ‘best basketball player’.

Mohammad Ali Rehman

Son of Mohammad Hussain and Dilshad Bibi Siblings: Mohammad Abdullah (12) and Mohammad Abubakkar (5)

Mohammad Ali Rehman, the eldest of three sons, was a studious position-holder who excelled at English, winning several competitions.

Ali’s father says the day before the attack, his son had asked for money to buy a new notebook after his ran out of empty pages. His father had given him the money that night and Ali thanked his father as he was leaving for school. Mohammad Hussain says that when he received his son’s body, the Rs300 he had given him was still in his son's pocket.

Both of Ali’s parents have recovered after the tragic incident. His mother underwent psychiatric treatment after the attack. His father says he dreamt of Ali, and his son told him that he is alive and with him always.

Mohammad Ammar Khan

Son of Lt Col. (retd) Ibrahim Khan Shinwari and Raheeda Begum Siblings: Mohammad Salman Khan (21), Mohammad Arsalan Khan (20), and two sisters

An aspiring doctor, Ammar wanted to serve the people of his hometown when he grew up.

Youngest among his siblings, he was very fond of travelling. He often arranged picnics and parties with his friends and was even planning to travel to Murree with them but the trip was postponed.

Although a very intelligent student who always secured over 80% in exams, his teachers felt he was still a little lax and only studied during exam time.

His parents recall an incident when Ammar found a wallet full of cash and important cards. The wallet belonged to a man who lived in Nowshera and Ammar went all the way there to return it to its owner.

Muhammad Mohsin Murtaza

Son of SM (retd) Gulam Murtaza and Fazeelat Jan Siblings: Gulam Mujtaba (29), Yaseen Akhter (27), Noureen Akhter (25), Gulam Yaseen (23), Ahsan Murtaza (21), Munira Murtaza (15), Saifullah (13) and Zobia Murtaza (9)

In a family of nine children, Mohsin stood out for being kind and honest. He loved to help those in need.

He excelled in academics and had won many prizes. He enjoyed playing cricket, soccer and football. But he never let anything get in the way of his prayers.

Mohsin liked eating all kinds of food but fish, in particular, was his favourite. He would often gather his friends and go fishing.

On the day of the APS attack, he demanded a new sweater and his sister assured him that his wish would be fulfilled after he returned from school.

Muhammad Shafqat

Son of Sep (retd) Muhammad Arif

Muhammad Shafqat’s family could not be contacted for his obituary.

Shafqat’s teachers say he was a polite and intelligent student who aspired to become a soldier like his father.

He never teased other students and was a focused and hard working young boy.

Muhammad Tahir

Son of Hav. Muhammad Ismail and Sajida Kalsoom Siblings: Iqra Mustafwi (17), Fizza Mustafwi (6) and Quratulain Fatima (5)

Tahir has a melodious and powerful voice. He was often selected to sing national songs at school. His father says he was skilled with the computer and IT-related work. He wanted to be a software engineer when he grew up.

In games he likes to play cricket and football. He was also a part of school cricket team. He was very fond of computer games. Need For Speed was his favourite.

He loved to travel within the country. His favourite spot was Murree, where he would love to take chairlift rides. His family tries to be strong. They miss Tahir very much.

Muhammad Uzair Khan

Son of Khalid Shakeel and Neghat Yasmeen Siblings: Shehriyar (18) and Umair (11)

The second-born of three brothers, Uzair was a hardworking student who aspired to be a doctor.

He had a beautiful voice, and was often selected to recite Quranic verses at school events. The day of the attack, Uzair did a recitation that many of his teachers and friends recall.

His mother is inconsumable. She says her son did not want to go to school that day but she forced him to go. She says the guilt haunts her and that she misses her boy very much.

Mouzzam Zulfiqar

Son of Sep/Clk Zulfiqar and Rehana Siblings: Javeria Zulfiqar (14), Zunaira Zulfiqar (10) and Muhammad Jasim (3.5)

As the eldest, Mouzzam was a responsible and obedient son. He was a hard-working and studious boy who took an active part in class activities and school events such as plays and skits. He was very close to his mother and grandmother.

He was crazy about football and was a big fan of Ronaldo and Messi. He also loved playing computer games, with Fifa 2000 and Call of Duty being his favourites.

His father says Mouzzam wanted to be an air force pilot when he grew up. He would spend hours watching videos of fighter jets and had learned all the names of the aircrafts. The JF 17 Thunder and F-16 were his favourites. His family feels his absence very much and prays for him every day.

Mohammad Yaseen

Son of Mohammad Asif and Afshan Asif Siblings: Ayesha (7) and Fatma (2)

Mohammad Yaseen was a jovial boy who always lent a sympathetic ear to others. He loved helping those less fortunate than him, and often ate lunch with domestic help and gate-keepers.

His parents talk about the horror they felt when he was kidnapped for ransom at age 7 for 11 days. After that horrific indent, they never let him go out alone.

Mohammad Yaseen’s favourite past time was playing games on his laptop. He also created a Facebook page of himself, and asked his friends and cousins to like it, which he thought would make him famous one day.

A week prior to the attack, his mother shares that Yaseen was playing a shooting game with his cousin at home, during which he acted out being shot with two bullets. She recalls being handed her son’s body on Dec 16 – he had been shot twice.

Noor Ullah Durrani

Son of Falak Naz and Tehseen Ullah Durrani Sibling: Sana (19), Hafsa (17) and Ammara (11)

Noor Ullah Durrani was very close to his family. His sister says that when they were in the same school, he would treat his friends to snacks from the canteen and cheekily put the tab on his sister.

He wanted to be doctor and was a genius with computers. His father says Noor Ullah knew how to fix any computer glitch and was known in their colony for being a ‘computer master’. His neighbours would come to him when they needed their PCs repaired.

His mother, a teacher, says she misses Noor Ullah's humour. He would often tease her by saying it would be comical if he gave her one of her own tests and she failed it.

Osama Zafar

Son of Seema Shehwar and Zafar Iqbal Siblings: Fatma Zafar (13), Ayesha Zafar (12) and Talha Zafar (10)

Osama’s family says he was an obedient son. He had a generous disposition, and would always ask his gatekeeper about his health and make sure he had been served meals on time.

His father recalls that he was born in the Combined Military Hospital in Peshawar on a Tuesday, 15 years ago. He died in that very same hospital, on that fateful Tuesday.

He had been asked by his parents to leave APS as its affiliation was with the federal board, and to take admission at a school that was affiliated with the Peshawar board. But Osama refused. He was happy at his school and was a good, hard working student.

Rafique Raza Bangash

Son of Shazia and Abid Raza Bangash Siblings: Murtajez Raza Bangash (12)

Rafique is described by his family as a polite and respectful boy. People who knew him are as moved and saddened by his passing as his family.

He was a religious child and often asked his father why there was extremism and sectarianism in society. He wanted people of different sects to be united. His father says his son was a sensible boy, who often handled discussions in a manner that a 40 or 50-year-old would adopt.

He wanted to be a neurosurgeon. His death has left his family heartbroken. Rafique’s father says that he was the reason for their smiles and without him, life seems meaningless.

Saad Ur Rehman

Son of Mr. and Mrs. Zahid Abdullah Shah Siblings: Ibad ur Rehman (19) and Maad ur Rehman (10)

Saad loved computers. He was known as a ‘computer master’ and was popular amongst his friends for repairing faulty machines.

He was very close to his father; they were like best friends. He took special care of him, and the last thing he did each night was make sure his father had a glass of water. He used to to stress that his father should take his medicine regularly.

He had parrots and fish for pets and loved coming home to take care of them. His father said that his son used to care about his family members a lot.

Shahbaz Ali

Son of Shoukat (late) and Khalida Ali Sibling: Saba Gul (18)

The Ali family has suffered two tragedies. Shahbaz’s father passed away a year before his son was killed in the attack. With Shahbaz and his father gone, his mother and sister have had to relocate from Peshawar back to the village.

Mrs Ali says her son was an obedient and respectful boy. He was praised by his teachers and loved by his friends. He had a curious mind and enjoyed research and reading about things.

His mother says she is trying to be brave and move past the tragedies in her life.

Shamowail Tariq

Son of Shagufta and Tariq Jan Siblings: Mehwish Tariq (18), Sohail Tariq (13) and Sawail Tariq (7)

Shamowail's father describes him as a mature and responsible young boy. He was a respectful and obedient son and was nicknamed Babar Sher (lion).

Whenever his siblings were disappointed in their father, Shamowail would cheer them up and make them laugh by telling jokes.

The day of the attack, two bloodied Rs20 notes were recovered from his front pocket. Both notes had bullet holes in them. Shamowail's father has kept those notes with him as a memory of his son’s sacrifice.

Shayan Nasir

Son of Naila and Jamal Nasir Siblings: Fazle Nasir (25), Shahab Nasir (23), Seemab Nasir (21), Zubair Nasir (19) and Shafi Nasir (17)

Shayan was a religious boy. He always inspired his friends and family to be regular with their prayers.

His father says Shayan would tell his mother not arrange dinner before the night prayer as his father would get lazy and not offer his prayers in the mosque.

He was a good cricket player, but his real passion was astronomy.

Syed Afaq Ahmed

Son of Zahir Shah (late) and Bibi Amna Siblings: Shah Fahad (27), Bibi Fatma (25), Shamsul Qamar (24), Bibi Rabia (19), Farooq Didar (18), Bibi Uzma (16) and Arsh Zahir (13)

Just like his elder siblings, Afaq wanted to be a doctor.

He was not a very social child and preferred being home and playing on the computer. He was very close to his siblings and mother, who say Afaq was the ‘backbone’ of the family.

His mother recalls that her son was very happy on December 16, 2014 before he left for school. That is how she wants to remember him His siblings say the void in their lives after the passing of their brother can never be filled.

Maheer Rizwan

Son of Mohammad Rizwan Aslam and Aneela Rizwan Siblings: Mehreen Aslam (14), Arham Siraj (9) and Zuraiz (5 months)

Maheer was a simple boy who was very fond of the outdoors.

His family recalled how he did not waste any opportunity to travel out of Peshawar to be close to nature or go swimming.

Maheer had a great interest in computer engineering and wanted to pursue it as a profession after passing out of school.

Mobeen Aslam

Son of Aslam Qureshi and Zahida Aslam Qureshi (late) Siblings: Samara Aslam Qureshi, Arfa Aslam Qureshi and Iqra Aslam Qureshi

To those who knew him, Mobeen was the ‘karate kid with a God-gifted, soulful voice’.

Mobeen was quite close to his father despite the latter being away from the family for 10 years. The two became close ‘friends’ after the death of Mobeen’s mother in 2013.

“One day I was dropping Mobeen to school and asked him to pray that I quickly get promoted to the rank of Army Commander. He told me it was not an easy task to become a commander just like that,” Mobeen’s father recalls with a smile on his face.

Mohammad Ali

Son of Shahab-ud-Din and Rana Gul Siblings: Alishba Khan (17), Maya Khan (11) and Toba Khan (6)

The only son of Shahab ur Rehman and Rana Gul, Mohammad Ali was jovial and a typically naughty teenager. But his carefree attitude was limited to the playground and according to the family, the 15-year-old was ‘extremely respectful’ towards his elders.

Mohammad Ali was particularly fond of his horse which was gifted to him by his father. He would spend his vacations learning horseback riding.

“I no longer fear my only son will get hurt in anyway,” Mohammad Ali’s stoic father said, while recalling how he would worry for his son as soon as he stepped out of the house.

Usama Bin Tariq

Son of Naik Subedar Tariq Mehmood and Safina Tariq Siblings: Umama Tariq (15) and Sana Tariq (12)

The eldest of three siblings and the only boy, Usama was very special to his parents.

He aspired to be an army officer when he grew up. He was especially concerned about poor people displaced by military operations in the north and wanted to work towards their rehabilitation.

He was a brilliant soccer player and often used to play with his father. They were like best friends. His father had recently bought a brand new bike for him.

Zeeshan Ali

Son of Hav Abdul Qayyum and Samina Bibi Siblings: Saman Qayyum (13), Sidra Qayyum (11), Ayesh Qayyum (7) and Fatima Qayyum (4)

Aspiring to become a doctor, Zeeshan was a very intelligent and responsible child. Eldest among the siblings, Zeeshan was the only brother who was devoted to his sisters. Caring and jolly, he would often take his sisters on bike rides and would buy them candy.

Zeeshan started studying at APS soon after his father was transferred to Peshawar. This was weeks before the massacre, and in that time, he had succeeded in becoming one of his teachers’ favourite students.

He was fond of shopping and buying new clothes. His father remembers that Zeeshan’s uncle was getting married on Dec 16 and he had wanted new clothes for the ceremony. Zeeshan was supposed to go shopping with his mother after school that day.

Zeeshan Shafique

Son of Hav. (retd) Muhammad Shafique and Bismillah Jan Siblings: Yasir Shafique (12), Danial Shafique (9) and Masooma Shafique (3)

A student of the APS since 2004, Zeeshan was among the top of his class. He was also a good athlete, enjoyed playing football and would be very competitive in matches.

He was fond of keeping pets, with pigeons being his favourite. His mother recalls how he kept pigeons at home and looked after them with great care.

Son of a soldier, Zeeshan too aspired to join the army and serve the country.

Adnan Hussain

Age: 16 Class: 9

Son of Hav. R Muhammad Hussain and Afsana Hussain Siblings: Ishrat Fatima (8), Kashif Mehmood (14) and Waqas Ahmed

Adnan Hussain’s mother weeps as she holds up his blood-spattered shoes. He was very close to her, she says, adding that he would greet her first thing when he came home from school and wouldn’t eat his lunch or dinner without her.

On the day of the attack, Adnan took his father’s new joggers, saying, “What kind of a father are you? You buy new ones for yourself and have your son wear old shoes?” He lost one of the shoes during the siege on APS. The other shoe has been locked away in a cupboard for safekeeping.

Adnan was seriously injured in the attack and passed away on the night of Dec 18 at 8:30pm.

Age: 16 Class: 10

Son of Aurangzeb and Nasira Zeb Siblings: Zarak Ali (21), Hamza Ali (19) and Moosa Zeb (13)

Hassan Zeb was an intelligent student with a good academic record. Hassan loved keeping pets and had three parrots at home which still live there.

A little chubby, his mother recalls how once at a school get together when children were asked to bring their grandparents, Hassan refused to go with his grandmother. He was afraid that those at the school may make fun of him and his grandmother for being a little overweight.

One of Hassan’s brothers, Hamza, who studies at APS, was with him at the time of the attack. Previously a chirpy, talkative child, Hamza has been terrified since the attack and prefers to keep quiet and to himself.

Huzaifa Aftab

Son of Aftab Ahmed and Andaleep Aftab Siblings: Farwa Aftab (14) and Maaz Aftab (10)

An aspiring scientist, Huzaifa liked to work on making new things. His mother says he would deliberately break his toys and then repair them by himself.

A sometimes naughty child, Huzaifa would hide his brother’s and sister’s school badges, toys and other belongings but would eventually tell them the location of the hidden items.

Close to his mother, Huzaifa was a considerate child and didn’t mind sharing. Having read the story of Abdul Sattar Edhi, Huzaifa had made it a habit that he wouldn’t use up all his pocket money for himself but would also help those in need. His mother tells how this habit was liked by all in the family as well as the neighbourhood.

Malik Taimoor

Son of Karim Khan and Rozeena Bibi Siblings: Roshna Bibi (27), Qaiser Khan (25), Maryam Bibi (23) and Nasir Khan (20)

Four months before the attack, Malik participated in a skit which described an attack at the school. In the role of an army major, Malik was killed fighting militants.

The day of the attack, his classmates say Malik died just as heroically. When he saw his principal Tahira Qazi set on fire, he leapt to save her, hoping to extinguish the flames. It was too late for both of them. The cowardly terrorists attacked him from behind, hitting him in the head. He loved his principal.

Malik was the youngest of five siblings and was loved and spoilt by them. His siblings appear to be shocked into a silence at the loss of their youngest. His mother says her heart breaks every day, and that she will never forget her son.

Malik Usama Tahir Awan

Son of Aftab Ahmed and Andaleep Aftab Siblings: Roshna Bibi (27), Qaiser Khan (25), Maryam Bibi (23) and Nasir Khan (20)

Usama was an extremely polite and loving boy who was adored by his family and friends alike. The 16-year-old aspired to join the Pakistan Army but always spoke of peace and education.

According to his father, Usama was of the belief that militancy could only be eradicated through education.

According to his mother, Usama had one weakness: chicken karhai. Mrs Awan would make sure her son was never disappointed at the dinner table.

Mubeen Afridi

Son of Farooq Shah and Shaheen Afridi Siblings: Maleha Afridi (18) and Areeba Afridi (10)

Studious and a position holder in his school, bright-eyed Mubeen was extremely well-mannered and was known to say salaam to everyone on his street.

Like other children his age, he enjoyed playing sport and was very fond of football. He played the game well and even won several awards. His mother says her son was so passionate about the game that he would ask his father to help him go abroad so he could become the best football player.

Mubeen also kept parrots at home which still live there. His mother says after her son’s passing, she opened the cage so the parrots could fly away but the birds stayed and still remain at Mubeen’s.

Muzamil Umer Sadiq

Son of Umer Karim Sidiq and Sumera Umer Siblings: Dr Unzela Umer (24), Kamil Umer (23), Hijab Umer (22) and Aimal Umer (17)

Muzamil Umer and naughtiness were synonymous — so much so that he had his siblings as well as his parents despairing.

His brothers, sisters and his parents were always on the alert for his tricks and antics.

He used to tell his father that he would like to become a religious scholar. He was also Qari of the Holy Quran. He learned Surah Muzamil by heart a day before he was killed.

Muhammad Umar Hayat

Son of Mr. and Mrs. Hayat Gul Siblings: Faisal (18), Maria (13) and Mahnoor Fatima (11)

Umar was an excellent student.

He won several awards and certificates at school and topped his federal board exam. He wanted to become a military doctor.

Umar’s parents say every waking moment without him is painful.

Nadeem Hussain

Son of Hussain Asghar and Bibi Fizza Siblings: Haseena Batool (14), Bakhtawar bibi (11) and Mohammad Qasim (15 months)

A quiet boy, Nadeem was intelligent beyond his years. Before APS, he took admission in Oswa Public School where he skipped nursery and prep to be placed in Class 1 for being exceptionally gifted.

From Class 1 to 7, Nadeem remained a position holder. His father says he was among the top five students in all of APS. He aspired to become a doctor, enjoyed playing cricket and always had a meticulous appearance.

Still in shock over her son’s death, Nadeem’s mother Fizza Bibi now suffers from cardiac problems.

Son of Misal Khan and Shukria Bibi Siblings: Faisal (20), Sidra Bibi (18) and Bushra Bibi (17)

Before he went to school that day, Shah warned his sisters not to eat the sweets his uncle had gifted to him. He gave them stern looks, telling them to stay away from his masaledar gurh. His sisters are very sad he did not come home to fight for them.

Shah was very close to his sisters. He was naughty and thoroughly enjoyed teasing them but would diligently do his homework under their supervision.

He joined APS four months prior to the attack. Before that, he studied in Hayatabad and lived with his aunt. At that time, he used to visit his parents every 4 months. But his parents wanted to see him every day, so he got admission to the army school in Peshawar.

Son of Salma and Mohammad Sohail Khattak Siblings: Ahmad Ali Shah (14) and Ayesha Gulali (11)

Sher Shah loved to study Turkish and Islamic history and was a skilled member of the debating club. His favourite book was ‘Worlds Together, Worlds Apart’.

While many children cannot read or write Pashto, Sher Shah excelled at it. He wanted to be a journalist when he grew up, and imagined himself as an anchor on prime time television.

He was very interested in horses devoured books that contained details of the taxonomy of horses. He could tell the classification of any horse buy its structure and physique.

Sohail Sadar

Son of Mr. and Mrs. Sardar Hussain Siblings: Hareem Sardar (15), Mohammad Haris Sardar (11) and Mohammad Hassan Sardar (7)

Sohail’s father says his son was a neat and clean child who wanted to grow up to be a doctor.

He was close to his father, who fulfilled every request made by his son.

He was not a fussy eater and was happy to eat anything that was cooked at home.

He had a pet parrot that he loved very much.

Syed Abdullah Shah

Son of Syed Fazal Hussain and Saima Fazal Hussain Siblings: Syed Talib Hasnain (11 months)

“Abdullah was quite a serious boy. He did not express his love for me with his words but would hug me each time he saw me,” Abdullah’s mother recalls.

The young boy, who was admired by all his classmates, wanted to join the army as a doctor and always talked about ‘serving people.’

Ever responsible, Abdullah would give his father advice about his business, something which his mother says used to put a smile on everyone’s face.

Syed Zulqarnain

Son of Kishwar Sultan and Syed Shah Siblings: Faheem Shah (23), Zakir Shah (21), Radia Shah (20) and Saira Shah (18)

Zulqarnain joined APS just two months before the attack. His father says the college his son was attending was too far away and he wanted him to be closer to home.

While considered a prankster, Zulqernain was as patriotic as one could be. He would paint the national flag on his face on Independence Day. Like all boys his age, he loved cricket, biryani and cars. But his favourite snack was French fries. He would ask his sister to make some for him nearly every day.

Usman Sadiq

Son of Mrs. and Mrs. Muhammad Sadiq

Hailing from Abbottabad district, Usman was the only child of his parents and loved dearly by them.

His father describes him as an energetic, intelligent boy, who was good at his studies and could grasp complicated concepts quickly. He was fond of cricket and watched every match. He would often play in the neighbourhood or at school with his friends. He loved spicy food, especially biryani.

His parents pray daily for strength and endurance after their son's loss.

Zargham Mazhar

Age: 16 Class: 8

Son of Naib Subidar Mazhar and Mukhtair Bibi Siblings: Naheed Mazhar (23), Shahzad Mazhar (21), Shahbaz Mazhar (19) and Shahzadi Bakthwar (4)

Zargham Mazhar was a serious, studious child. He enjoyed reading often reading books that were not part of his coursework to increase his knowledge. He would also recommend books to his siblings.

A bright student, he would feature among the top students of his class. He was class proctor and known among his peers for his attentiveness and gumption. His father remembers how young Zargham was fond of gardening and looked after his plants and flowers every day.

Zargham wanted to join the army and his parents used to call him “little soldier”. He had also cleared the test for the military college in Jhelum but died before his admission could be finalised.

Zeeshan Ahmed

Son of Sub Ikramullah and Hameeda Ahmed Siblings: Ishfaq Ahmed (26), Nazia Ahmed (25), Shahab Ahmed (23), Waqas Ahmed (18), Awais Ahmed (died in APS) (14) and Nimra Ahmed (8)

Hailing from Malakand, Zeeshan Ahmed enjoy playing cricket. He often played matches with his brothers, and was part of his school cricket team. His favourite player was Shahid Afridi.

Zeeshan was very devoted to his eight-year-old sister Nimra. The two used to joke and gossip and Zeeshan would also help her with her studies.

Zeeshan’s brother Awais, who was younger to him, also died in the massacre. The brothers were in the same hall and died trying to save each other. Their father remembers how Zeeshan and Awais did everything together and were the best of friends.

AGE 17 to 20

Bilal Arshad

Age: 17 Class: 8

Son of Arshad Ali and Naheed Arshad Siblings: Rashid Ali (19), Shahkar Ali (18), Mashal Arshad (14), Saleena Arshad (12) and Zarak Khan (10)

Bilal Arshad always aspired to join the Pakistan Army as a commissioned officer. A capable athlete, he enjoyed playing volleyball and badminton and also won several laurels for both games. He was exceptionally disciplined and maintained an impeccable appearance, putting a lot of thought into the clothes he wore.

Giving by nature, Bilal often convinced his father to give him money so that he could treat his less-privileged friends to a nice restaurant.

On the morning of the attack, he brought home two cakes before leaving for school. He ate one and told his mother to serve the other to his father who was sleeping at that time. Bilal’s father woke up late that day and immediately learnt of the APS attack that also claimed his son’s life. Till date, the cake is still at home.

Muhammad Sahiban Durrani

Age: 17 Class: 10

Son of Zabith Khan and Shabnam Siblings: Roman Khan Durrani (19), Seema (17), Saba Durrani (15), Sana Durrani (13), Huma Durrani (11), Jibran Khan Durrani (8) and Jasmin Durrani (8)

Brother of seven, Sahiban was of a very serious disposition. He aspired to join the army as an officer and for that purpose concentrated on his studies a lot. Sometimes, he would be up at 3 am, going through his lessons and preparing for the coming day at school.

Close to his mother, Sahiban would tell her how he would stand by her "in this world and the next".

His father says Sahiban had a favourite spot under a tree near his house. This is where he would relax and unwind. It is now the spot where he is buried.

Age: 18 Class: 2nd Year

Son of Mr. and Mrs. Attique Akhtar Siblings: Ahmad Jan (16), Malaika Arman (12) and Zarak Khan (10)

Aimal Khan always wondered why the most hardworking people in his city used to sleep in the streets. According to his father, the young boy showed empathy beyond his years.

Aimal made it to the point regularly serve meals to the poor, and during Ramazan, he would make sure all police checkposts in his area were delivered a ration for Iftar.

Aimal was also known in his neighbourhood as a talented artist, and his sketches of sports cars garnered a lot of praise on the internet. He had restored several cars, and his decorative work on seats and rims earned him quite a lot of money.

Aimal’s father proudly declared that the family had never received a complaint about their 18-year-old boy. He was their perfect child.

Ibrar Zahid

Son of Zahid Rashid and Shahida Bano Siblings: Mohammad Azkaar Zahid (15) and Mohammad Absar Zahid (11)

The eldest amongst his siblings, Ibrar was a hardworking student and responsible young man. His father says when his son was alive, he did not have to worry about his younger children as Ibrar looked after them like a parent. He also took great care of his mother, and would often run errands with her or take her to the hospital for check ups.

He was obsessed with computer hardware and software and hoped to be an engineer when he grew up.

Ibrar was shot three times – in the spine, chest and leg. He fought for his life for a week after the attack, but succumbed to his injuries on December 23. His mother misses him terribly. She looks at his photographs, trophies, books, his school bag daily – and says she will never forget him.

Son of Mr. and Mrs. Nisar Ali

Imran Ali’s family could not be contacted for this obituary. Imran’s teacher Miss Andaleep Aftab says he came from a very modest home in Kurram Agency. He lived away from his family, at a local hostel in Peshawar. His mother was a tailor and bore all his educational expenses.

His teacher says that if he were alive, he would have pursued his dream to be a doctor, and would have made an excellent one.

She also says he was eager to polish his English. Each morning, he would reach school early with a list of difficult words he wanted to know the meanings of. He was an only child.

Son of Mohammad Amin and Zarshida Siblings: Waqar Amin (27), Said Amin (25), Dilawais (23), Amir Amin (17) and Asfandyar Amin (12)

A serious child, Ishaq Amin was a devoted student and enjoyed the sciences.

He was very close to his brother Amir Amin — an APS student who was injured during the Dec 16 attack — the two were good friends. His brothers says Ishaq enjoyed watching English movies, particularly horror films or those relating to combat and war heroes.

A child still, he would ask his father to bring sacrificial animals for Eidul Azha at least a week in advance so he could get time to play with them.

Muhammad Imran

Son of Abdul Karim

The family of Muhammad Imran could not be contacted for this obituary.

His teachers say Imran was a reserved and shy student.

He was the favourite student of Mr. Altaf Hussain, a teacher at APS, who said he could not find any fault in him.

He wanted to be an automotive engineer.

Muhammad Zeeshan Afridi

Age: 18 Class: 10

Son of Hav. Awal Shah and Razia Sanam Siblings: Naveed (28), Daud (25), Zainab Bibi (22), Noman (15) and Faisal (10)

His parents say he was a gift from God. He had a warm heart and loved to crack jokes. Because his house was far from school, Zeeshan lived at the hostel. He loved to play cricket and was a good fast bowler. For this reason , he was the captain of the school cricket team.

He wanted to grow up and become a military doctor. He used to say that he would serve the people affected by the military operation in FATA.

According to his father he was a good speaker, writer and reader. He got many medals and certificates in many fields. English and maths were his favourite subjects.

His family says that they cannot eat, let alone laugh the way they used to when Zeeshan was in their lives. They miss him terribly.

Shafique ur Rehman

Son of Subedar Noor Rehman and Hafeeza Begum Siblings: Sher (25), Sabira (21), Ijaz (15), Javeria (13) and Bilal (11)

Shafique wanted to be a military doctor. He worked day and night to attain top grades and was preparing for NUST’s medical test before he was killed in the attack.

He was a generous soul. He once asked his father to pay the school fee of a classmate who could not afford to pay tuition.

He loved to play cricket. He was a fantastic bowler and batsman, which earned him a spot at Peshawar’s Qayum Complex cricket club.

His family feels his loss deeply.

Yasir Iqbal

Son of Lance Naik Sher Nawaz Khattak and Naik Pari Siblings: Nasir (24), Qaiser (21), Mudassir (14), Sheraz (11), Wiqas (8) and Faizan (7)

Yasir was in the school auditorium the day of the attack. When the firing started, he dropped down and lay on the floor and was safe. But when he saw that one of his best friends was shot and bleeding profusely, he picked him up and tried taking him out of the school. This is when the attackers struck.

His father says Yasir was the most polite and soft-spoken out of his children. He was close to his eldest brother Nasir, who was more a best friend than a brother.

He wanted to become a software engineer. Naturally, his favourite subject was computer science.

His family says is difficult to live without him, they say, and every day is an emotional challenge.

Maher Ali Azam

Age: 19 Class: 2nd Year

Son of Kausar Ejaz and Zakia Yasmeen Sibling: Hamid Ejaz (13)

Teachers, classmates and relatives unanimously praise Maher Ali Azam for his intelligence and obedient nature. He wanted to become a doctor and serve the poor people in his village where he also aspired to open a hospital.

He was president of the Urdu literary club in his school. He was fond of playing cricket and was a member of the school cricket team.

Close to his aunt, Robina Kauser, he enlisted her help in his studies. She says he always told her that he wanted to earn a good name for his country.

Muhammad Daud

Son of Khalid Khan and Gulnaz Begum Siblings: Abdul Qudoos Khan (18), Abdul Qadeer Khan (15), Umra Bibi (13), Sara Bibi (8) and Walliullah (3)

The eldest of six children, Muhammad Daud had dreams of serving his nation as an army officer. Known to his youngest sibling as ‘Lala Jee’, Daud was punctual, disciplined and studious and had been appointed house captain.

His father says he was a good speaker, writer and reader and had received many medals and certificates. His favourite subject was Biology and he always secured over 90pc marks in the class.

His father says Daud was not just a son, but also a friend. “I was very frank with him,” he says. He shares that after one of Daud's classmates mentioned his father had passed away, Daud would take extra pocket money every day to help his friend.

Saqib Ghani

Son of Maj (retd) Sher Ghani and Iffat Qamar Siblings: Ambreen Ghani (30), Adnan Ghani (25), Sarish Ghani (25) and Mehwish Ghani (22)

“Our college is under attack. Firing is going on. Please pray,” is the last message Saqib Ghani sent to his mother.

Saqib’s cousin Asfandyar says he helped those less fortunate than him. When he was promoted to Class 10, he came to know one of his classmates was unable to afford a new uniform. Without informing his parents, Saqib bought a new uniform and gifted it to his classmate.

Saqib aspired to be a civil engineer. He was also inspired by his retired Army Major father, his sister Mehwish says, and desired to fight militancy as an army officer.

Son of Mr. and Mrs. Mohammad Iqbal Siblings: Aqsa Iqbal (24) and Mohammad Haris Iqbal (22)

Zain was a responsible and diligent student. He stuck by his daily schedules for work and studied hard to be the best student in his class. His father says that he was killed in the very same hall where he used to make presentations for his Biology class.

His family describes him as the soul of any party. His teachers would also say he was the life of the school.

After his death, Zulqarnain’s family learnt of an ageing man in the neighbourhood who died when he heart of the young boy’s death. They discovered that Zulqarnain would frequently offer a lift to the elderly man when he was on his way to the mosque, and the two would pray together.

Abdul Azam Afridi

Age: 20 Class: 2nd Year

Son of Mr. and Mrs. Ghayas Ud Din Afridi Siblings: Alveena Ghayas (30), Dr Amir Azam Afridi (29) and Sikandar Azam Afridi (28)

Abdul was a fun-loving, naughty student. He once went to the computer lab and poured water on all the computers. Later, when an infuriated teacher asked who did it, Abdul owned up to the mischief and paid a fine for the act.

He was not particularly fond of his studies. His passion was martial arts and weight-lifting, which he pursued with a fervour which earned him medals and certificates.

His mother says her boy was child-like. Even at the age of 20, he would sleep in her bed like a two-year-old.

He loved animals and was the proud owner of a dog. Before he passed away, he told his driver he was excited about adopting his friend’s Persian cat.

Waseem Iqbal

Age: 20 Class: 4th Year

Son of Hav. Muhammad Irshad Asif

Waseem Iqbal’s family could not be contacted for this obituary.

Waseem is described by his teachers as a happy go lucky student. He was an active and energetic soul who was loved by all his teachers.

He was fond of playing cricket and was a good player.

Muhammad Sami (peon)

Son of Shamsur Rehman and Asia Bibi Siblings: Saeeda (27), Zainab (23), Rani (18), Amanullah (18), Sidra Gul (16) and Atiq Ur Rehman (8)

Sami began to work at a young age due to extreme poverty. His father suffered from cancer, and Sami set out to work when he was just a young boy to support the family and pay medical bills. His father passed away in the year 2000.

He had been performing his duty at APS for eight years till the day he was killed. His mother says Sami did not enjoy his youth like other children. He had to be the man of the house. Despite the huge responsibility of an entire household on his young shoulders, Sami never lost his temper with his brothers and sisters.

After his death, Sami’s family is shattered. His mother misses her son terribly, and wishes he would ask her to cook qeema. His siblings who live at home are in dire poverty as the sole breadwinner of the family is no longer there.

Ehsanullah (driver)

Son of Zainullah and Saleema Bibi Children: Yasirullah (3) and Muhammad Yousaf (5 months)

Ehsanullah joined APS just 10 days before the attack. On that gruesome day, he helped shift 40 injured children into ambulances before the attackers killed him.

He was the proud father of a three-year-old and a newborn. He wanted his kids to grow up and study at the same school where he was employed. He dreamt that they would be doctors. His family says he was a responsible man who took care of his loved ones. They all felt like they could count on him.

He didn’t always want to be a driver. He tried to set up a small business on two occasions but had to wind up owing to losses. His children, parents and wife are in shock. They cannot accept that the centre of their world is no longer with them.

Hafsa Khush (teacher)

Daughter of Prof. Khush Muhammad Siblings: Muhammad Anas Khan (27) and Javeria (23)

An intelligent and determined woman, Hafsa began working at the Army Public School in 2013. Her brother Anas remembers her as very kind and responsible. She was close to her mother and was engaged and soon to be married.

Not only did she have excellent command on her subject, Hafsa’s students remember her as someone who wouldn’t leave class without clarifying her pupils’ concepts. Her father, who is still shaken from Hafsa’s death, remembers how his daughter wanted to pursue a Ph.D. and was interested in an academic career.

Despite having a chance to save herself and leave the premises, Hafsa chose to stay back to help injured students. It is during this time that she was shot and killed.

Muhammad Hussain (gardener)

Son of Shamsher Khan and Saira Bibi Children: Hina (7), Iqra (5) and Aneesa (3)

Muhammad Hussain served as gardener in the Army Public School (APS) for a period of seven years. After his passing in the Peshawar massacre, his brother Naheed Khan was offered the job that he took. Naheed says he got to know much more about his brother from his colleagues in the APS who all found Hussain an amicable and honest fellow.

Hussain was a hard working man, his brother recalls, saying how after his gardening job at the APS, he would return home and go to work as a farmer in the fields. Hussain enjoyed playing cricket and was good in the game.

Hussain leaves behind a widow and three children. His wife still asks why her husband was killed and his father appears broken at the death of his young son.

Sadia Gul Khattak (teacher)

Daughter of Gul Shahzad Khattak and Zulikha Bibi Siblings: Hamayun Shahzad, Amir Shahzad, Aarif Shahzad, Asim Shahzad, Tayyada Gul, Uzma Gul

An English teacher at the Army Public school for five months, Sadia had completed a Masters in English and a Bachelors in Education at the University of Peshawar. Her father, who is also a professor, was her mentor. She would always consult him before making any big decisions.

She was a jovial, fun loving person. Her friends say she loved to hang out with them and talk. They would meet up daily and go for a walk together. Her students say she was a wonderful teacher and that her command over the English language was impressive.

Her family says they are broken after her passing. They miss Sadia terribly.

Mudassar Khan (lab assistant)

Son of Mr. and Mrs. Muhammad Khan Siblings: Sher Khan (23), Anas Khan (21), Umar Khan (19), Gulnaz (18), Afshan (15) and Fatima (10)

A native of Swat valley, Mudassar had a Diploma in Clinical Pathology and a Masters in Pashto from the University of Peshawar. He was passionate about Pashto poetry and often penned romantic couplets which he would share on social media.

He was the eldest amongst his siblings and the sole bread winner of his family. For this reason, he had left his village to work.

He got engaged 15 days before he was killed. His uncle describes him as a respectful and responsible member of the family, who never hurt a soul. His family is broken by his death and misses him dearly.

Hajra Sharif (teacher)

Daughter of Muhammad Sharif and Israr Bibi Siblings: Ruman Nissah (37), Muhammad Amin (35), Bibi Aamna (34), Abrarul Amin (32), Samina Parveen (30) and Shahid Amin (25)

A chemistry teacher at APS, Hajra Sharif had the knack of controlling a class effectively, and was very well-rounded in her subject, her colleagues say. She was helpful and polite to work with, and proved her mettle in a very short time.

Her students share that even though chemistry was a dull and boring subject, they thoroughly enjoyed her lectures and never bunked her classes.

According to Hajra’s siblings, she emphasised a great deal on women’s education, and her aim was to open a girls’ school in Karak.

Her brother says that she was his mentor and it was as per her wish that he joined APS.

Benish Umer (teacher)

Wife of Umer Zeb Butt Children: Hibbah Umer (5), Annaya Umer (3) and Affaf Umer (1)

A loving wife and a caring mother, teaching was Benish’s mission in life. Her husband Umer recalls that it was Benish’s tenacity that helped the family maintain discipline. He remembers Benish preparing breakfast, helping him out with work clothes and then leaving for school on the day of the massacre.

A kind woman, after her family, Benish gave the most amount of time to her students and treated them like her own children. She also felt strongly about girls’ education and used to say that educating women was critical for the country’s prosperity.

Her husband recalls that Benish had the chance to get out safely during the attack but chose to stay back so she could administer first aid to the injured students. This is when she was shot.

Muhammad Bilal (guard)

Son of Pervaiz Shah Children: Abbas (3.5) and Hanan (6 months old)

Bilal and his wife were expecting their second child when he was killed. His wife has named her newborn Hanan, because her husband loved that name.

He was attacked by the terrorists when they saw him helping children escape from a back exit.

He was a loving father. He wanted the best for his son Abbas, and dreamt that he would become a doctor some day.

He was a good sportsman and regularly played cricket with the APS students. He was strong, and was able to hit long sixes.

His wife and parents miss their beloved Bilal. His youngest will never know her father.

Sahar Afshan (teacher)

Daughter of Dr. Muhammad Noor Raziq (late) and Shamim Akhter Siblings: Fawad Gul (35)

Sahar was helping evacuate students when the attackers targeted her. She joined APS in 2006 as an Urdu teacher. She had completed a Masters in Urdu from the University of Peshawar and was also pursuing MPhil. As a result of her commitment and hard work, she was promoted to the senior section shortly after she joined.

She was a role model for her family. Her siblings aspired to be disciplined like her. Her colleagues still cannot believe that she is gone. Her beautiful smiling face and pleasant voice echoes in their ears. She loved to get friends together for delicious food and gupshup.

Her students say she was soft spoken and helpful and that she had a passion for her subject. She often arranged Urdu debating competitions and coached the students.

Farhat Bibi (teacher)

Children: Syed Sitwat Ali Shah (18) and Syed Baqir Naqqi (15) Siblings: Fawad Gul (35)

There’s a palpable void in Farhat Bibi’s newly constructed house. Widowed husband Abid Ali Shah and sons Baqir and Sitwat are still numb with grief as they recall memories of the cast-iron superwoman in their lives.

She held the position of Urdu teacher at APS for three years until her death. Her prolific academic qualifications included an MA in Arabic, MA in Islamiat, an M.Ed and a B.Ed. She was also a Hafiz-e-Quran. As a social worker, Bibi was committed to helping poor and needy people. Her sister, Abida Bibi, remembers her as someone completely devoted to her family.

Farhat was an experimental cook and enjoyed making new dishes for her husband and sons. She was fond of tours and picnics and often organized outings for the family.

Saima Zareen (teacher)

Daughter of Anwar Jamal Wife of Tariq Saeed

Saima Zareen had been teaching English at the APS for 17 years. She had completed her M.Phil in Education and was pursuing a Ph.D in Education. She was the mother of two girls aged 20 and 13.

She loved to teach and learn. She would return from school every day at 3pm, eat her lunch and head to her university to study till 7pm. She would then come home and prepare dinner for the family.

Her students describe her as soft spoken and kind, while enforcing discipline at the same time.

The day of the attack, Saima rushed into the auditorium to save injured students. As she made her way in and out of the room, she was apprehended by one attacker. She was shot dead and her body set on fire. Her husband vows to continue her dream, to teach. He misses her terribly.

Akbar Zaman (head clerk)

Husband of Bibi Rabia Children: Tahir Zaman (16), Anwar Zaman (14), Mohammad Zaman and Ahmad Khan

“Akbar was a very pleasant man,” says his widow, Bibi Rabia. He had a soft disposition and would always advise his sons to avoid disputes.

Akbar had joined the Pakistan Army’s Electrical & Mechanical Engineering dept in 1983 as a clerk and moved to Army Public School after retiring in 2006.

He was admired by his entire village and even now he is fondly remembered. Akbar had made it a point to bring back gifts from Peshawar for all the kids in the family when he would visit native Lakki Marwat for holidays. He was as a highly-dedicated employee who gave his life while performing his duty.

Zahir Shah (gardener)

Son of Zaz Muhammad and Yahi Gul Husband of Momina Bibi Siblings: Muhammad Sharif, Abdur Rauf, Bushra Bibi, Khayal Muhammad and Muhammad Zahid

Zahir Shah began working at APS a year before the massacre. He served the school devotedly and would advise students to study hard whenever he interacted with them. His nephew Shafqat says Zahir had studied up to F.A. but couldn’t carry on due to financial problems.

Zahir got married nearly 12 years ago and didn’t have any children but loved his nephews and nieces as if his own. He was particularly close to his 4-year-old nephew Waqas and would look after him as his own child.

Although Zahir didn’t earn much, he was always mindful of the needs of his family and always tried to get other, better jobs. His nephew remembers him as a soft-spoken man with a kind heart.

Mohammad Shafiq (clerk)

Son of Mohammad Sadiq Children: Children: Saqib (8), Yusra (7), Afia (5) and Fareeha (2)

Shafiq was the head clerk at APS since 1996. He was jokingly called the ‘pioneer employee’ of the school. His brother says Shafiq was an honest and hard working member of the school staff. He loved and cared for the students with all his heart. He longed for his children to have a good education.

After school, he would drive a taxi to earn extra money to support his family. Two of his children are now studying at APS.

The day of the attack, Shafiq was busy evacuating terrified students when he was gunned down. He had made his third trip back into the school during the rescue operation when he was struck.

Nawab Ali (teacher)

Son of Fazal Rabani and Husn Zaiba. Children: Faizan (13), Habiba Gul (10) and Ayesha (9)

Nawab was a self-made man. When he was a student, he would work after school to earn money for his school fees. He was a math genius, and was popular in his hometown Charsadda for his math skills. He joined APS as a math teacher in 2000.

His wife says he was a wonderful husband and also a loving and responsible father. His daughter Ayesha says he used to take joy in celebrating her birthday and get her dolls. She says he had a ‘smiling face’.

His colleagues, too, remember him fondly and recall the many instances when he would treat them to shola chawal – a Charsadda specialty.

Sajjad Ali (superintendent)

Son of Ejaz Ali (Late) and Talat Sajjad Children: Fahad Ali (4.5) and Faizan Ali (10)

Sajjad Ali served at the APS for 10 years. His nephew Mudasser tells how the staff at the school as well as Sajjad’s relatives admired him.

An amicable man, Mudasser recalls how Sajjad was regarded as a peace maker by members of the family and would resolve any conflicts that would develop among his relatives.

Sajjad’s colleague Imran remembers him as a diligent man, saying it was due to his hard work that the regional coordinating office was declared the best in the country.

Sajjad leaves behind a widow and two sons. His older son Faizan, who is 10 years of age, misses his father terribly.

Shahnaz Naeem (teacher)

Wife of Dr Naeem Mumtaz Children: Mashaal Naeem (19), Omamma Naeem (16) and Unnas Naeem (14)

Teaching at APS since 1994, Shahnaz was a dedicated teacher whose death has left many a colleague and students mourning. Regarded as an inspiring teacher, Shahnaz was also a loving wife and a devoted mother who managed family life just as well.

Shahnaz put great emphasis on education and the studies of her own children. She wanted them to become doctors like their father. Her husband Naeem remembers her as a simple and loving woman who loved arranging family get-togethers.

Her colleagues say she considered them and her students as family. She took care of everyone.

Sofia Hijab (teacher)

Wife of Advocate Amjid Sohail Children: Tatheer Zahra (17) and Farwa Agha (13)

Remembered by her daughters as their best friend, Sofia Hijab was a devoted mother and a hard-working teacher.

She started teaching at APS as a junior teacher barely two years ago but her hard work led to promotion as a senior in a short span of time. Kind to her students, Sofia is remembered as soft-spoken but uncompromising when it came to academics.

Her husband says she was present in the auditorium during the attack but had managed to exit safely. But that is when she decided to go back for her students. She pulled out many of those injured before the attackers killed her.

Pervaiz Akhter (lab assistant)

Husband of Sajida Parveen Children: Wasim Pervaiz (21), Umme Kalsoom (20), Saleem (19) and Raheem (14)

Pervaiz worked at APS as a lab assistant for 20 years. He was utterly devoted to the school, and students remember him as honest and dedicated.

According to his children he was a soft hearted father. Despite his limited salary he fulfilled all their demands. He always hoped his kids would get quality education and earn a name for Pakistan.

He had a good command of Pashto, Punjabi and Urdu. He also recited the Quran and taught Islamic principles to whoever was willing to listen.

Muhammad Saeed (teacher)

Son of Muhammad Safdar Khan Husband of Ayesha Bano Children: Rimsha Saeed (19), Hajra Saeed (17), Naima Saeed (15), Muhammad Talha (12) and Muhammad Anas (10)

Saeed had been teaching Islamiat at APS for nine years. Holding an MA, he is described by students as a good teacher who was soft-spoken and kind. He was an advocate of women’s education. Many of his past students went on to serve in the army.

When the army launched an operation in Swat, Saeed invited three displaced people into his home and gave them food and shelter for three months.

When the attackers struck, he advised students to stay calm and helped them. His parents, wife and five children miss him dearly and pray for him to rest in eternal peace.

Tahira Qazi (principal)

Daughter of Qazi Hayat Ullah Khan Wife of Lft Col. (retd) Qazi Zafar Ullah Khan Children: Arifa Qazi (32), Imran Ullah Qazi (30) and Ahmed Ullah Qazi (24)

Tahira Qazi joined the Army Public School in 1995 as head of English Department and in 2006 she took charge as the principal of the school.

“She was not only a devoted teacher who cared deeply for her students but also a loving wife, mother and friend,” Tahira’s husband recalls.“ She dedicated 37 years to educating children and in the end laid down her life to the cause.”

She maintained a very sober exterior but was in fact a very soft-hearted person, her family says. According to a student injured in the APS attack, Tahira’s last words were: “They are my children and I am their mother.”

‘Don’t fire at me and my children’

Altaf Hussain

Age: 42 The day of the attack was his 6-year-old daughter Khaula’s first day at school.

Altaf Hussain had been teaching English at APS for 15 years. The day of the attack was his 6-year-old daughter Khaula’s first day at school. They were completing her admission form when the firing started. He handed his daughter over to another teacher. Both were killed soon after.

Meanwhile, Hussain ran outside and confronted three armed men. He pointed to his beard and said, “Look at this. Don’t fire at me and my children.” The assailants responded with bullets and left him there to die.

Despite eight bullets in his body that rendered him immobile, Hussain managed to drag himself inside a room and lock the door behind him. Army personnel showed up a few hours later; he was finally rescued only to be informed that his daughter had been killed.

Hussain rejoined APS in May and teaches a different class now. His stamina has suffered greatly, and going to the school is an ordeal for him. But he feels it is necessary to be courageous and show up for the students.

The attack, the return to school

Age: 16 | Class: 10 "Our teachers told us to lie down on the floor...among the rain of bullets, Allah almighty kept me safe, but I lost my brother"

For two hours Ahmed and his friends hid inside their classroom, and shielded themselves from the heavy firing outside.

News arrived that Ahmed’s brother had been seriously injured. Ahmed says the feeling of helplessness sent him into shock. “My brother was not just my brother, he was my best friend,” Ahmed says.

Outside the school, his father was waiting for the two brothers to exit safely, but only one made it.

A month later, Ahmed returned to APS and wanted to leave. The visuals of blood, bodies and injured people haunted him. But he was not willing to give up on his dream to become an engineer, and is slowly re-adjusting to normal life while seeking psychological help for trauma.

The screams of children

Age: 18 | Class: 2nd year Amir found a place to hide in the computer lab, but couldn’t escape the bullets

When Amir Amin first heard gunshots, he thought it was a routine exercise outside the school.

Within the next few seconds, the firing was followed by sounds of children screaming and crying. Amir rushed outside only to be met with a terrible sight: armed men were firing indiscriminately at students, many of whom were his friends.

Amir found a place to hide in the computer lab, but couldn’t escape the bullets. One hit his leg, and he waited in pain until police officers rescued him. His brother, Ishaq Amin, was killed during the attack.

“I’ve lost a flower-like son,” says their mother, who fears for Amir and her remaining children’s lives.

A bullet in the leg

Kashan Zaheer

Age: 17 | Class: 10 “I wish I had been martyred with my friends”

After the third class of the day, Kashan Zaheer and his friends made their way to the auditorium for a lecture on first aid. A few minutes later, the back door burst open and bullets flew in all directions. Kashan realised it was a real attack, and lay down under a chair seeking cover.

“[But] the militants fired at the rows of chair under which we were hiding. I saw several of my friends get killed or injured,” he says.

Kashan received a bullet in his leg while running out of the auditorium. He was moved to a private hospital for treatment soon after, but requires additional operations to heal completely. But his mental health continues to suffer. Kashan’s mother says he cannot concentrate and study like he used to, and occasionally erupts in anger over small, petty issues. He often tells her he wishes he had been “martyred” with his friends.

‘I used a muffler as a bandage’

Age: 16 | Class: 1st year Ongoing treatment costs have exceeded Rs 3 million

Maaz Irfan was in the auditorium with Kashan, waiting for the first aid lecture to start. He received three bullets in his arm seconds after the militants stormed inside.

Once the militants left, Maaz limped over to his classroom, where a younger boy wrapped his muffler around his arm as a bandage. They waited in the room for two hours and placed cupboards by the door to block anyone from coming in.

Maaz’s treatment costs more than the family can afford. According to his family, the government has provided Rs 1.5 million, while treatment costs have exceeded Rs 3 million. If they do not get him help soon, he could lose his hand permanently.

‘I have lost nine friends’

Malik Hassan Awan

Age: 15 | Class: 10 A bullet hit Malik’s cap, but he managed to run outside

Malik had just settled down in the school’s auditorium when the firing started.

Realizing it wasn’t an ordinary drill, Malik ran towards the door with his friends. Two of them fell on the way, and three others tried to escape but were killed. A bullet hit Malik’s cap but he somehow managed to reach the main gate safely. He immediately hailed a rickshaw and rushed home.

Malik says he has recovered mentally, but he is unable to forget the day and his friends. His brother, Usama Tariq, was also killed in the attack. When he hears the sound of firing now, he grows frightened. “I have lost nine friends. I cannot study without pain in my head,” he says.

Listening to the gunfire for hours

Murtajiz Raza Bangash

Age: 12 | Class: 7 Everything was covered with blood, dead bodies were scattered around

While the ambush went on outside, Murtajiz and his classmates gathered inside their classroom and shut themselves in. He thought it was a regular drill for senior students, but soon realised it was real firing.

For two hours, he had to stay quietly inside with his friends and bear the terrible sounds coming from outside. The firing didn’t cease. “I lost my hearing for some time,” he says.

Murtajiz remembers the army personnel showing up hours after, and being rushed to the hospital where everything was covered with blood, dead bodies scattered around. He has resumed his schooling now, and wants to join the Pakistan Army to fight terrorists when he grows up.

‘All we wanted was to escape’

Obaid Sajjid

Age: 16 | Class: 9 "I will continue my studies and become an engineer"

Obaid was in the auditorium when the firing began. It started like a drill, but the hall’s back door broke and armed men entered the room. “All we wanted to do was escape,” he says.

Obaid frantically made his way towards the other door and was shot four times – twice in each arm. He fell by the gate and once the attackers moved out, ran to the library to hide. He waited for two hours, unable to help himself or his injured friends.

His arms are slowly recovering, and with further treatment, Obaid should be healthy again. It was difficult for him to resume school, not because of his injury, but because several of his friends were martyred on the day. “In the first few days I was worried and afraid,” Obain admits, “But now I am completely fine and brave. I will continue my studies and become an engineer.”

‘We thought they were rubber bullets’

Syed Ahsan Ali

Age: 15 | Class: 10 Returning to school wasn’t easy as there were no friends left

When firing started in the auditorium, Syed Ahsan Ali and his friends – like other students – thought it was a routine drill. “We were laughing about it, thinking they must be rubber bullets,” he says.

As students began falling, Ahsan and his friends sought cover under the chairs. Several of his friends, were killed right there. Once the militants cleared out, teachers gathered the students to rush outside. Ahsan ran to the door, but when one of his friends fell while running, he felt too scared to move.

Somehow he made it out alive. “I’m lucky,” he says. “At least 40 of my friends were killed by militants.”

Returning to school wasn’t easy since he had no friends left. But the incident brought in him a renewed love for studying; now all he wants to do is become an officer and serve the country.

Production credits

Project director: Atika Rehman Reporting supervisor: Ali Akbar Reporting: Hassan Farhan Tariq, Abdul Hakeem Mohmand Editing: Qurat Ul Ain Siddiqui, Jahanzaib Haque, Taimur Sikander, Kevin Kaikobad, Hufsa Chaudhry, Fatema Imani, Zeresh John Layout and design: Jahanzaib Haque, Ema Anis, Kevin Kaikobad Development: Aleem Bawany, Nauman Junaid

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132 children killed in Peshawar school attack

Army chief offers funeral prayers in absentia for victims; schools all over India observe two-minute silence

The mass murder at Peshawar’s Army Public School and College is a manifestation of the most barbaric face of the Taliban insurgency which has been plaguing the country for more than a decade.

Read the full story here

I have never seen such a horrific act as the one today in Peshawar where schoolchildren were targeted & executed in a planned manner. 1/3 — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) December 16, 2014

2/3 We condemn the TTP which owned this attack on innocent children.It is time to rise beyond mere compensations for victims & condemnations — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) December 16, 2014

3/3 We must unite against such inhumanity. The prov & federal govts & military must be on same page to proactively rid country of terrorism. — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) December 16, 2014

Spoke to PM Nawaz Sharif over the telephone. Offered my deepest condolences on the dastardly terror attack in Peshawar. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 16, 2014

India stands firmly with Pakistan in fight against terror. Told PM Sharif we are ready to provide all assistance during this hour of grief. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 16, 2014

I will be attending the meeting called by the PM tomorrow morning to reassure the nation that we are united at this time of national tragedy — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) December 16, 2014

In view of the massacre of innocent children in Pakistan, tonight's dinner hosted by me for Members of Parliament is hereby cancelled. — Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) December 16, 2014

#BREAKING Barack Obama denounces 'odious' Pakistan school attack — AFP News Agency (@AFP) December 16, 2014

#COAS in Psr:Based on actionable intelligence several ops have been put into action including10 air strikes in Khyber today-4 — Gen(R) Asim Saleem Bajwa (@AsimBajwaISPR) December 16, 2014

#COAS : In Psr;This ghastly act of cowardice of killing innocents clearly indicate they are not only enemies of Pak but enemies of humanity googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-story-2'); }); — Gen(R) Asim Saleem Bajwa (@AsimBajwaISPR) December 16, 2014

#COAS :Extremely saddened,our resolve has taken new height.Will cont go after inhuman beasts,their facilators till their final elimination. — Gen(R) Asim Saleem Bajwa (@AsimBajwaISPR) December 16, 2014

#COAS :They have hit at the heart of the nation,but let me reiterate they can't in any way diminish the will of this great nation. — Gen(R) Asim Saleem Bajwa (@AsimBajwaISPR) December 16, 2014

#Psr Update:Latest;7 more male staff members and 4 lady teachers rescued by SSG.Closing up — Gen(R) Asim Saleem Bajwa (@AsimBajwaISPR) December 16, 2014

My heart goes out to everyone who lost their loved ones today. We share their pain & offer our deepest condolences. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 16, 2014

It is a senseless act of unspeakable brutality that has claimed lives of the most innocent of human beings - young children in their school. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 16, 2014

Strongly condemn the cowardly terrorist attack at a school in Peshawar. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 16, 2014

A man carries a student, who was injured during an attack by Taliban gunmen on the Army Public School, after he received treatment at a hospital in Peshawar. PHOTO: REUTERS

#Pakistan government must take all possible steps to protect children & schools from violence. #educationunderattack #PeshawarAttack — Kailash Satyarthi (@k_satyarthi) December 16, 2014

An army helicopter flies over the Army Public School that in under attack by Taliban gunmen in Peshawar, December 16, 2014. PHOTO: REUTERS

#Psr Update:Terrorists pushed&confined to last of 4 blocks of school.4 terrorists killed so far.Search for remaining on,Clearance underway — Gen(R) Asim Saleem Bajwa (@AsimBajwaISPR) December 16, 2014

I strongly condemn the terrorist attack on a school at Peshwar(Pakistan). This dastardly & inhuman attack exposes the real face of terrorism — Rajnath Singh (मोदी का परिवार) (@rajnathsingh) December 16, 2014

My heart goes out to the families of those children who got killed by the terrorists in Peshwar. I express my condolences to those families — Rajnath Singh (मोदी का परिवार) (@rajnathsingh) December 16, 2014

Dr Tahir-ul-Qadri strongly condemns the attack on children's school in #Peshawar . — Dr Tahir-ul-Qadri (@TahirulQadri) December 16, 2014

A soldier takes position above a road near the school that is under attack. PHOTO: REUTERS

Ambulances drive away from the school that is under attack by gunmen in Peshawar, December 16, 2014. PHOTO: REUTERS

I just want to Ask the Prime Minster Of Pakistan that is this not a time that you Address with Your Nation to Supports them in this Great time of Loss. And we all need to make our own Security Plan in these Hard time . Hope you will agree

Its 7 a.m. Friday. Another flower-less day. I feel lost and failed. I'm unable to forgive myself.

Sad day, No accountaiblity, No will loose thier job over this massive security failure, Cover up and point finger at each other only to be repeated in next incident. 26 secuirty forces funded by public money couldn't stop this or any such incidents in past.

I'm shocking this attack it's very bad news and i say to the taririsum you once only once time think pasawar attack if your child there ,you attack than child is copy of God but you r not think. Then I say I'm heartbroken by this senseless and cold blooded act of terrorist in Peshawar that is unfolding before us.

Understanding the situation. It's pretty simple actually. Our neighbours help trespassers spoil our own garden. Spoil theirs. Just deprive TTP and Baloch separatists of fundings and they will die their own death......miserably.

Very sad day

@pakistani: Pl. don't lose your mind. Children all over India have observed a two minutes silence and offered prayers for the fallen angels. The Parliament did it too. And Millions of Indians wept and cried along with Pakistani citizens over this most brutal and inhuman act.

Our prayers for all the people of Pakistan. May the little souls rest in peace. And let their anguish destroy the brutes running free.

@Azhar: You can't act like a terrorist to end terrorism. Please understand killing of any innocent person is wrong and makes you no better than the terrorist!

@Fahad: Shame on you for defending a govt that does not come to its own province.

SO SAAADDDDD!!!!!!!!!!! it was a TRAGIC day in the history of pakistan!!!!!!!

Allah bless our country and save our families, citizens and cities from terrorism.(Ameen) Allah plz help us.........

What is the difference between these killers and us? They killed all these innocent people and we are sitting quietly watching them kill and innocents being killed. There is absolutely no difference at all. Even now if we dont stand with against these atrocities then Good luck to Humanity. I dont want anyone to have any sympathy with me or for my children if they are killed in similar incident tomorrow, because I didnt stand when others needed, so I wouldnt deserve theirs either. We are meant to be a body and feel pain pain for others but we dont, but its my son, but tomorrow it will be my son and day after yours and this cycle goes on. We are waiting for Messiah, but there is no one coming until we stand up in unity into the faces of these corrupt rulers and these killers. Otherwise we are heading in one direction : Destruction.

I have no words to condemn the this most barbaric,saddened,worst and tragic killing incident of the sinless and innocent school's children in Peshawar and no one can share and lessen the martyred children's parents' grief,agony and pain.May Allah Almighty rest of the martyred children's soul in heaven and definitely there will furtively be Pro-Taliban people in this forum and I ask them few things: 1-If Taliban want to take revenge then why don't they come before army engaged in North Waziristan Agency in Zarb-e-Azb operation face to face to take revenge instead of killing the innocent and sinless people? 2-Is this Jihad in Taliban's stance to kill the innocent and sinless people? 3-What type of Islam Taliban want to act upon and want/wanted to implement in the country? and 4-What type of this Islam is thru which Taliban declare suicide attacks and killing of the sinless and innocent people's killing rightful and licit?

this is very sad incidence.now govt should be awakened and take serious steps for peace in country

we condumd yesterday attacked by which inconnet childern lost their lives.i slute to the mother of nations whose scrifice her childern on pakistan.

It is an appeal from all TV Channels except for the news channels to stop showing music shows, morning shows, dances, dramas at least for 3 days at this highly traumatized and emotional juncture in the nations history........ please act sober to mourn the death of the 132 children martyred.

Being an indian, i wish to send a strong message to all my pakistani brothers and sisters that we are with you in this moment of grief and despair. We all know that terror has no religion. My eyes were filled with tears yesterday when i watched about the attacks on those innocent little angels. Not just 132 children are dead but it's 132 dreams that have been shattered. Today humanity got buried in 132 little coffins. Today the weight of little coffins must have felt very heavy. My hands are trembling while writing this message. Would have come personally to that side and would have hugged each and every one of you if there had been no boundaries.

May god bestow peace upon your nation. From A seperated but still a brother.

This is very sad to see this kind of nonsense act. May God give power to the families to face this.

This nation hangs it's head in shame;it could not protect it's future. Enough is enough;terrorism has to be totally eliminated from this country once and for all:what ever be the cost.

Sorrow, and pain, this isn't just attack on Pakistan, this is an attack on every country on this planet. Today the terrorists slapped us and slapped us hard. With this being said they don't deserve no mercy. This is an attack on humanity. Pain sorrow grief and anger. Can the world stand by Pakistan and exterminate everyone of these? The greatest tribute to our children would be the coffins of these murderers.

May god bless Pakistan.

A sad day for the world be it Xinjiang, Lahore or Mumbai, humanity was murdered not just in Peshawar today.

This is not a religious issue; its all geopolitics. Pakistan wants to eliminate TTP because it hits them inside the country. Pakistan encourages the Afghan taliban on its western border and LTTE on its eastern border and that is where lies the problem. When terrorists attack the Chinese in Xinjiang China cries foul but when terrorists of the same breed carry out attacks in Mumbai it pats the Pak back and encourages them with a wink and a nod.

Unless all players keep terrorism out of bounds from their geopolitical gamesmanship, they all will continue to hurt, some less some more.

strongly condemns the attack on children's school in #Peshawar.

Today the humanity is ashamed. My no words can reduce the pain of bereaved families, however, I just pray almighty to give strength to the families who have lost their loved ones to bear this tragic loss.

No words..just tears that's all..

@Azhar: looks like you subscribe to the same ideology as Talibans

no no no...this is d limit...dont know to which species de belong to...even animals dont use to do dis...how someone can plan like dis nd d persons can execute it...seriously humanity can b seen getting extinct...now de only got children to deal wid??? army should not kill dere family...we r not like dem...bt catch dem nd dont kill dem...death penalty is not justifiable...de should realise whats d mistake de hd done... may god bless families who r facing dis tough situation...may god bless humanity...wid all f u against destruction f humanity...

Dear families of the innocent children. Alla may grant you every patience for such an unbearable loss. We all share your sadness and are beside you. If we can not fight back these killers We do have the Allah with us to take your revenge. May their souls rest in heaven. Amen.

ET please don't report the condolences of Afghan Taliban, they are fathers of Pakistani Taliban. There could be no good & bad snakes.

Wordless about today omg How ?what ? Why means no words to say how can I talk about those monsters....Allah barabd karday inki nasloon ko ujar day in masoom bacho ki Jaan leny walay darinday baaz ajao khudara sharam nahi aati khouf karo Allah sai in masoom logo ki Jaan lekr khush hotay ho Allah tum logo ki naslain ujar day aaj awam ko hosh mai ajana h k hum sub ko ek hona h jub awam himmat or azam k 7 rahay ki to kisi dushman ki ankh b hamay nhi dekh sakti United v stand Divided v fall ... prayy fr them itx time to save pak ..

these terrorist get funds and training from india inside afghanistan. RAW wants to destroy pakistan.

My heart-felt condolences to the families of the victims of this most horrific and barbaric attack! May God bless the souls of victims!

My wish is that this unspeakable crime against humanity marks a turning point in Pakistan's war against terrorism and extremism. May all Pakistanis of goodwill rise against such people so filled with hate and fanaticism and marginalize and eliminate them once and for all. There are no "good" terrorists and "bad" terrorists - they are ALL TERRORISTS. Uncivilized, barbaric, inhuman!

although it is a very sad incident but it is a coward act to kill innocent childern... all of us pakistani pray for peace and well being of parents of victims and all citizens. WE SHOULD ALL STAND AND PAY OUR SACRIFICES FOR OUR BROTHERS AND CHILDERN AT ANY COST

US is against TTP, Pakistan is against, India is against, Iran is against, Afghanistan is against, 27 countries of NATO are against. Russia is against. From where are the getting the weapons and the explosive matter? Can any one answer?

@Salman First it is CM KP who has announced 3 day of mourning, second if there is any one who is laughing stock right now, it is you and if you say PM does not give a damn, it is really you who do not give damn. This is not time to talk politics. But when the time will be right, it will Imran Khan, who will be cornered for creating this mess, undermining the war from day 1, underming the operations, raiding Punjab in his lust of power and leaving KP govt with nothing. Sharam Karo!

No Nation - by itself - can get rid of Terrorism. If Pakistan wants to rid itself from Terrorism then it must join up with AT LEAST Iran, Afghanistan and India. To ensure the ELIMINATION OF TERRORISM IN the whole region - say on the basis of the SAARC Countries - all the Countries have to co-operate in a joint action as if there is any conflict-differences with country or countries of a Nation's Borders then this Process of Elimination WILL NEVER SUCCEED. Cheers

The unimaginable happened in Peshawar. Whatever may be the differences but today Indians pray for parents who lost their sons and daughters. It is not an act any human can undertake. No words can console the parents who lost their loved ones. The world must unite to wipe the scourge of terror from this planet. India must use any channel possible to work with neighbors to bring peace in the region.

This is pretty mind boggling statement from our corrupt PM "3 days mourning" as if he gives a damn!!! This PM is nothing but a big laughing stock.

We console with the students and teachers of “APSACS” Peshawar at this moment of sorrow anxiety. We highly condemn this cowardly act of terrorism and pray for the departed souls. Lets join hands and take a stand to eradicate this nonsense from our society. May Allah grant a great patience to all the survivors.....

Just I can't express my feelings, it is so hard. They were innocent students, they were young.... We strongly condemn terror attack on school. No only Pakistan, or Afghanistan or Iraq should fight against terrorism, the whole world must do it!! Terrorism is human disease and we should escape our world, our future from this perilious disease. Our hearts go out to the parents, families who lost their loved. We express our condolences to brother Pakistan people. Our heart is with you in this difficult day.

When poor Malala was attacked so many people said she was agent of CIA/RAW/Mossad I would like to ask those people, those apologists for the Taliban, what do you have to say now? What will it take for you to wake up to the cancer that is destroying your country?

Pakistan, The world weeps with you. This is really really sad. I think of all parents whose children perished due to madness of a few individuals.

At this time you are mentioning that it is because of Dharna when 15 childeren lost their life and operation is going on. You are trying to put blame on PTI even when this incident is happening. Are you so blind in supporting your master Nawaz Sharif that you are not even feeling the need to highlight the pain our people are going trough but it is more important for you to highlight Dharna and PTI. Seriously, today our country is here because of people like you. We as nation have lost values. I am a PTI suppoeerters and if it was happend in Punjab I would not have jumped to blame PMLN but be worried about our people. For god sake wake up. Please please please be Pakistani first and human even before that.

@Fury Stop! This is not a day to put politics. Trust me if there is any one who should be blamed it is Imran Khan but today is not the day.

At least now onwards Stop Selective Fighting against terrorism. Learn lessons and Stop using terrorism as an instrument to counter attack neighbors. Learn terrorism doesn't have religion, creed, and ethnicity. Either Kashmiri Separatist or Talibani, Terrorist is Terrorist, Stop hating other religions, start loving other religions in neighboring countries. Come out of ego's and start understanding India, realize and know who is your true friend or a enemy.

@Danish: Wishing Allah to save is chanted by lethargic and inactive person. Allah will not come forward to save unless you step forward to take action in this regard .leaving everything on Allah is nothing but foolishness.

In this darkest hour for Insaniyat, even indian heart bleeds for those innocent little souls. May some day the hate, jealousy and enmity in the mind of every human being end. I join my pakistani brothers and sisters in their mourning. Genetically we are connected, we can't deny that. lets resolve and stand up against the politicians and religious leaders in both india and Pakistan and send them message, that we indian and pakistani want to live as brothers. R I P little angels..May your soul rest in peace

See I am telling it is the mod of Nawaz sharif and his goons. Chaudry sahib I hope you are satisfied now @lahori:

When only six terrorist are responsible and a date of Dec. 16, 2014, it should be evident that someone called for this act to disrupt and mask the present events going on. I grieve for the innocent children and school workers, but not for any of those who could have prevented this or caused it. And I pray to Allah take revenge for the children lost, on those who plan and carried out this act... This vicious act did harm against Imran Kahn campaign to clear corruption from the political proceedings in Pakistan and I am not sure at this time if this was not the purpose of it... but as always the most harm is against the efforts for political justice and the safety of the people in Pakistan...

And start loot and plunder at KPK. As if he is still not done his share of job of looting this country. For his long will you guys allow this rascal to suck our blood. He is a curse on Pakistan @Blithe:

After my children have been born, I consider all the children of this world as my children. This is so very heart-breaking ...what must be the plight of the poor parents...these are our children who were massacred ... this is the Talibans response to Malala getting the Nobel prize ... Our apologies to these little angels ... We were not courageous enough to protect you...

this is verey awfull incedent and we ar so sad this atack may ALLAH thes inconet childern gose to jannat .132 children .shahed in pakistan

Thanks, lots of thanks from Indians. @Manju.Indian:

Extremely sad for the parents and the children. Extremely angry at the brutes eho did this. I hope this horrific act motivates government and army to get on same page and clean up the sources of hate - be it hate mongering textbooks or madrassas that justify violent jihad or Friday khutbas that spread hate.

Only the cowards attack unarmed, innocent school children and proudly claim responsibility. We stand with the people of Pakistan in their time of grief and condemn this cowardly act in the strongest of terms. Our condolences go out to the families and parents of the victims. Ambassador Richard Olson also issued a statement of condolence to the families of the victims. “The United States strongly condemns senseless and inhumane attacks on innocent students and educators, and stands in solidarity with the people of Pakistan, and all who fight the menace of terrorism,” a statement issued by the US Embassy in Islamabad says. “Few have suffered more at the hands of terrorists and extremists than the people of Pakistan,” the statement says, adding that “that is why it remains essential for the United States and Pakistan to continue to work together to secure peace and stability in the region”.

These are desperate measures by the terrorists, but they should know that these cowardly acts will not go unanswered. They will be hunted down and eliminated.

Abdul Quddus DET - U.S. Central Command

As an Indian and as a human being, I pray to God that he brings peace to the children who died, I hope and pray that now they are in a better place. I cannot really imagine the pain the parents must be feeling. We are with you and we condemn this act of the terrorists ... no cause is so holy to justify this massacre. No God will sanction this massacre.

Children went to school the morning did not come back in the evening.unbelievable. The grief on the happenings made me mentally very disturbed from early morning and I am not able to go for work, thinking of the intense of grief each parent of the diseased children will have. My deepest condolence to each parent. Let us all condemn this senseless violence in all possible terms.

What have these children done to deserve this hatred and which god is pleased by this action,They are cowards who are attakcing children and women and shows the levels to which they have sunk.they shamelessly claim to have attacked and expect priase for this despicable act..They should be mericlessly hounded and eliminated if any society has to live with safety,and dignity.There is nothinglike good or bad terrorists or taliban.All are cruel and merciless if the can attack children.

People should realise that PTT and PTI are one and the same. To finish PTT first get rid of PTI.

@wb: The problem does not lie with Islam. This mentality is exactly why all Muslims are blamed for the ghastly acts of barbarism done by few. This is an issue of terrorism, not religion.

To Pakistan and China.

The lost lives in terrorist attacks in Mumbai, Xinjiang and Peshawar are all barbaric and equally condemnable. If China and Pak are serious in preventing future attacks they need to join hands with India for a common strategy to fight this menace. If China and Pak treat Mumbai attackers as freedom fighters, then alas not only India but all three will continue to suffer!!

this is a inhumanity job to kill innocent school children. we condemn strongly.

all Pakistani nation is with parents who lost their love ones.we condemn the terrorist attack on innocent children in Peshawar this is a inhumanity job.we want peace in Pakistan.

My prayers with all those parents who lost there loved one, this is inhuman

Imran Khan's reaction is quote “If you have a disagreement, fight with men, not innocent children,” unquote

The real muderers allowing the Taliban to commit these vile acts of violence are those donating money to their causes, they hide like rats in their own communities destroying lives of innocent people by virtue of the filth they associate themselves with.

How are children responsible for the bloodshed besetting the whrath of mankind, how can the Taliban have face gunning down a group of children in cold blood?

This is cowardly act , i am not sure how one can target children , my heart goes out to the families who have lost the children. RIP

Pakistan must realise the faster they get rid of these scum-bags the better it is for South Asia as a whole...

@Fury Sharam Karo. Shame on you! This is not about Nawaz Shareef. If any thing, it is Imran Khan who from the first day of War is undermining it, raiding Punjab cities in name of Dharna, whole KPK Govt dancing in Punjab while Terrorists hit. It is not even about IK. It is a collective failure. Don't you dare put this on NS.

This very same Imran khan and Nawaz Mian had told that Taliban are good and we have LOTS of GOOD TALIBAN and a few bad TALIBAN.....

The TV didnt show the school children killed in drone attack in 2006, when they are covering tragedies. @Mrs Niazi: Those children were killed by the US. Who were the killers here by the way?

Very Sad Day

My friends Little brother died in this incident he was like brother to me too. We had a lot of fun together. May Allah Send him and all other innocent lives to Heaven. And please guys stop blaming each other at least for this day behave like brothers. Love and Respect each other...

GOD BLESS....PAKISTAN....in 1947 its the people who decided to make this country...now again...its time for the same people to decide which way they want to go....

Sad day for the Army school, its students and teachers. Indeed very tragic incident in Peshawar. Who can support killing and maiming of innocent school children. RIP to the dead and may the injured recover soon.

This is a shameless,heartless and cowardly act. Even when they avenge they go over little children? All the perpetrators should be brought to justice. My heartfelt condolences for all those who has lost their loved ones in this heinous act. This is not just fight for pakistan, this is fight for humanity. Such people are a problem for human existence. My fellow pakistani friends the world cries with you, you are not alone.

The TV didnt show the school children killed in drone attack in 2006, when they are covering tragedies. http://tribune.com.pk/story/229844/the-day-69-children-died/

Anyone who takes innocents lives of kids and is proud about it, does not deserve to live. The Forces should go for kill, and no prisoners. That is the only way to eradicate these beasts.

we need to banish all words which indicate sectarianism such as sunny,shia,wahabi,etc. we need to stop donating for such organisations which preach sectarianism,all such donations can be handed over to government which can distribute after getting convinced that the receiving organization doesn't preach hatred.Loudspeakers have to be banished.It should be the duty of government to teach religion not private madaris.

Darbaris are scoring points on this national tragedy. Adnan sidiqque, Bilthe and other darbaris I dont know who do you live with yourself. Ugly

Indian trolls should be ashamed of their existence. After financing this killing of innocent children, they are commenting shamelessly.

Oh May Allah take pity on them cause it's too rude to do it!

@Concerned Pakistani: There is nothng worst and despicable than an attack on innocents civilians and especially the children in any conflict and must never be relatavised nor condoned under any circumstances.. But right is also for the independent media to be allowed to enter the operation area in the KPK and tribal region and to verify the atrocities against women and children which the Taliban leadership claims are beeing carried out by the Pakistan army. Remember there is no honour in violence and no winner in wars, every one looses and the whole humanity regresses.

The best you people living in Punjab can do is just sit back and enjoy the show being played with the blood of Pashtuns. Write some sympathizing statements thinking it might condole the effected. It is Punjab at the expense of the rest of Pakistan, it is the policies of Punjabi Political leadership and Punjabi Generals due to which we Pushtuns suffer today. I must remind you, every now and then you will hear that 55,000 Pakistanis have died because of this war on terror but what most of you might not know is that 85% of those killed were we Pashtuns.. I wish one day we will live in a place when policies implemented by Punjabi establishment will not effect our lives anymore..

RIPdeparted souls. Blame soulless, sinner Talibanis for this tragedy as they are only one who conceived, planned and executed this ungodly crime and there is no point in blaming naive Imran Khan. Doomed Taliban supporters have no code of ethics or honour. All Pakistanis should stand by their army. Pakistani atmy is the last line of defense against these cultureless child killers.

NOW TIME HAS COME TO ASK AFGHANISTAN TO HAND OVER MULLAH FAZAULLAH ELSE STOP THEIR EVERY THING LIKE MEAT BREAD AND OIL AND SEE HOW QUICK THEY WILL HAND OVER HIM...

"If I was PM, I would not send Army" - Imran Khan. Sharam tum ko magar naheen aati and Pervez Dancer raiding Punjab. Shameless people gave this opportunity to shameless TTP.

Such acts should be condemned. They have proved their cowardliness by targeting innocent kids. Today 100+ dreams, hopes and aspirations have been murdered. I think this heinous crime must put things into perspective for us Indians and you Pakistanis. Time to suspend the Kashmir issue for a while and focus on this issue first. These terrorists have yet again proved that terrorism knows no religion. They aren't just aiming at us Indians but you Pakistanis are also being targeted and I must applaud you all for your braveness. You guys have probably seen more terror attacks than us since 2008 and still haven't given hope for . Time to get together and finish off this cancer before it kills us all. And why can't we? We have enormous resources in terms of soldiers and state of the art weapons to target and finish these cowards. May god give strength to the families of these kids. RIP.

@Ansari: Taliban is shouting it out aloud that they did it to avenge zarb e azb or something and people like you prefer to sit in the dark with your eyes tightly shut even after an incident like this!! God bless!!

Are we Muslim, Pakistani, and the Human?????? Oh my Lord! No one disrupting us until we allow, where are our Intelligence agencies? Why they are not aware prior to the incident. No drought we have sacrificed much more then world wants, but there is time to check and control incident prior it is happened.

High time to impose martial law in the country for sometime.

@Saad: First of all, shame on you, there is a time and place for political brownie points, we feel alot of things on such occassions but empathy and sensitivity should guide us to direct our energies towards only productive and appropriate interactions with other people. This is a time to mourn and unite, later will be a time to listen to ill-informed political views of people. as for your comment: oh yeah KPK being vulnerable is all the fault of the government with the most control of our borders and that happens to be the provin...hold on...where is the Federal Government who has been in power for many years over the past 30+ years? Doesn't matter my prejudice has been given an opportunity to shine so hear me all!

By destroying the education the jihadis want to go back Pakistan in stone age?

@Proud Indian: Truly a sad incident this one, hard not to feel for the parents whose children attended that school. Yet, it is shameful that people would resort to pointing fingers and delivering points implying that anyone had this coming.

NOBODY deserves this, especially the children do not. Shame on you for forgetting...did the Afghan war of the 80s have nothing to do with KHAD RAW and the KGB; referred to as the Triad? Additionally, RAW's mayhem in Pakistan is documented by India's own journalists. Excerpts as follows: Indian journalist, Praveen Swami, writes that a "low-grade but steady campaign of bombings in major Pakistani cities, notably Karachi and Lahore" was carried out. Shall I even comment on the Indian PM's history?

So please lose this holier than though garb....those who live in glass houses should not throw stones. Kindly, be more informed, be more objective and reserve your personal ill-informed viewpoints for another time, another place. For now, rub not salt in the wound of your fellow human beings, children are suffering, should be a good time to start showing some humanity.

I ll never forgive these beasts! what could be the more cruel than killing innocent children !! I am ashamed of myself for being so helpless to do anything :( !

Indian involvement can not be ruled out. They are sponsoring TTP actively to spread terrorism in Pakistan

Make special laws for special situations, restore capital punishment, bring out your best weapon needed here, stop talking about good and bad taliban, stop doubting TTP intention, act like other nations acted in such situation, stop giving routine condemning statements, activate your foreign office, bring your think tank to the fore. Enough was enough a long time back. Unfortunately, we are stilll debating on national security policy, blaming each other. God forbid but if do not change our approach, these innocent students will be just another part of the 50,000 + casualities we suffered post 9/11.

Where is the helpline the teams need to setup a helpline for grieving people and media is supposed to highlight them. As for the incident all of us across the border condone it and all the sympathies with the parents.from across the border.

Those blaming Imran Khan should know he was against the MILITARY OPERATION in Waziristan from Day 1 as he anticipated this would back-fire, which unfortunately did. Show solidarity and think before writing such statements. This is indeed a very sad day for Pakistan.

May Allah bless their souls and protect all.

@Faruq: its their responsibility to protect every citizens they must understand people give theme mandate for security Happiness Education for what ?

STILL YOU PEOPLES ARE COMMENTING AND BLAMING HERE AND THERE!!!

ENOUGH NOW, GET UNITED COMPLETELY TO GET RID OF THESE COWARD TERRORISTS!! CANNOT EXPLAIN THE PAIN..........................................................:'((((

PTI should hold its next dharna against the Taliban that are destroying Pakistan's fabric Venue: Army Public School and College, Warsak Rd

My heart goes out for the parents of chlidren martyred in this barbaric act . Allthough i m totally againsts the pak for its policies on terror in my motherland. This most gruel act of terror till date done by any outfit anywhere in world. And no one in his senses can even think of justifing this act.HIGH TIME FOR PAK TO LOOK INTO ITS POLICIY ON TERRORISM (GOOD TERROR AND BAD TERROR) it is biting u back. may the departed soul rest in peace and god may give strength to the family members of the departed souls to bear such unbearble loss .

Terrorists having no relation with Islam!!! Pak Army!! i request you plz play role for making of national Goverenment & safe us from these illetrate leaders that having no vision to eliminate terrorism. Plz Save Nations during this crutial time!!!

The Zarb-e- Azb operations are now becoming transparent in the world outside Pakistan! Is the army backed Government of Sharif going to signal the retreat from its gang ho strategy or see its private army go down with valour and bravery and meet the fate similar to that the Indian colonial army of the 19th century?

This is so sad an incident. It should have never happened in the first place. This is a simple case of intel failure, yet not 1 official will take responsibility & resign on moral ground. It is the responsibility of the provincial govt to protect all its citizens. All political & religious parties must put aside their differences & condemn this cowardly attack. We all must unite to create awareness for the public support against such cowardly inhuman incidence. Media are supposed to spend 2% of their earning for public service.as per PEMRA rule..which they are not doing. Not one public service message is run on any media. When are they going to play their part in service of humanity ? just multiply the death toll with an average of 4 members from each family, how many families affected only in this incident, imagine the numbers affected during the whole period of such terrorist attack ? how are we going to justify such killings in front of Allah swt ? whereas our religion says " killing of 1 innocent person is like a humanity " & here only god knows how many people we have killed, directly due to our incompetence, governance issues, lack of resources etc; or as an accessory like these religious parties who supports these terrorist outfits. We will never get away from any kind of justification....never. Our hands are soaked with blood of these poor unarmed people, we stand to loose more if we TODAY do not stand to fight this scourge from our society...this is our last chance to rub-off the blood from our hand....

@Adnan Siddiqi: Please for God's sake have some heart. Don't involve politics in here, this is a national tragedy.

An act of sheer brutality. Taliban are Khawarij who have no mercy for any religion, any sect, any clan and any human being.Highly condemned.

Do we still doubt that mad dogs and terrorists should be shot?

it is a sad incident indeed..why are you blaming IK for that?do you expect us to provide security to those who provide security to us?what kind of logic is that from you guys..seriously

My condolence and sympathy to the service men/ women whose children are killed. It is perhaps frustration with Malala yousufzai getting Nobel prize. The pakistani goverment sat/saw the TTP gain control of the country, it encouraged covert attacks by Taliban in return for peace in Punjab. It encouraged TTP to attack Indian embassies in Afghanistan. Imran khan is a covert admirer. Every body including India is facing the consequences with explosion in Wagah hardly 500 meter from border.

Why we all are fighting among us? We need unity. My heart goes out for all familly who suffered from the attack. I cant blame anyone because we cannot control this. because protection of our people is not the priority of our government.

Still no condemnation of TTP by PTI.

Every one who opposed Waziristan and Swat operation against TTP and other terror groups is also responsible for this crime. Those who called Malala a drama and an agent have blood on their hands.

Those who sympathise or promote with terror may one day become its victim.

"PM Nawaz Sharif has convened an emergency meeting on Wednesday" - WHY NOT TODAY???? WHY NOT NOW???? WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?/??

Does Imran Khan / PTI and their supporters still support dialogue with TTP? Also, just to point out I'm not a PML-N supporter; actually I don't support any political leader as they are all nothing but crooks trying to line up their own pockets. The army is not without blame as well; it's mindless paranoia with India and it's policy of promotion & facilitation of proxies has backfired - the price of which is being paid by the innocent people of the country. It is time to clean up this mess once and for all...anyone who stand against the state should be eliminated - no favours, no proxies.

Killing of inncoents is a deplorable act and hopefully the so-called "educated" middle classes who to a large extent support religious conservatism will wake up to the reality.

@Malik: no politics plz

Gen Raheel sahib! You told us you have eliminated the capability of these barbarians to launch a major attack? Were you wrong? If they are coming from Afghanistan, then Pakitsan should launch a strong reply inside Afghanistan asap! Find Fazlullah and kill him. Period

Who trying to give comments politically on this so sad incident, in my openion they are all evils not human.

Rest in peace....

My heart goes to parents and towards Pakistani people......

We understand your feeling and pain (from experience in terrorist attacks happening in India)

Hoping that Pakistani army wipes out terrorists from earth....

I am not surprised to see how some fellow countrymen have started accusing PTI for the heart wrenching incident. My prayers go for all the people who have suffered the loss. For the rest who are trying to get the political mileage please note that Naya Pakistan will be a place free of all these in human acts, and we are going to build it from our own blood and sweat since you failed to make one even after repeated tries.... InshAllah

Tears coming from my eyes when I was watching this news. This all destruction is to DE-stabilized Pakistan- Terrorist can not over take on education/Pakistan- Pakistani Will fight against terrorist- one day all nation of the world will eliminate all terrorist from this world- will Fight against whom who want to stop our children from studies. I offer condolences to the families of all the innocent people killed by the terrorists. I am still thinking of those children who died(shaheed) in this unfortunate event. Salute to all children- Our country security should be handed to army- our law is corrupt- Law should be strict so nobody dare to do anything. Long Live Pakistan-

Pakistan government must take all possible steps to protect children & schools from violence.

The irony is that militants asked the students to recite Kalmah before shooting them. It is same as if you would say recite Bismillah before eating pork!

Horrible, horrible and horrible. The children are collective for entire humanity. I see my god in any child. The only pure soul is the one inside every child. The innocent face of any child raises my spirits and i see the world with optimism that worlds future is secure. Why hurt them?

I strongly condemn this brutal & cowardly act of TTP. My deepest condolences to the victim's families. However a big question mark on the surveillance & competency level of PAK ARMY. Asim Bajwa and others should be dragged infront of nation as they owe this accountability to the grieved families. I don't get this why our Army is not pro-active. Mehran base camp & now this incident. Why they don't take proper measures to avoid collateral damages resulting from their military operations. Still unbelievable & shocking.

Being a father, I cannot even begin to imagine the current state of parents who lost their children or have children in critical condition and children who are now disabled for life.

Their lives are completely changed forever, this terrible sinking feeling will be with them for the rest of their lives. They will remember all the moments of their kids growing up.......

This is such an extremely harsh moment for them, no parents should out-live their children!!! I pray they find strength in these terrible times, my heart goes to them.

oh my god ! i cant see my daer ones! they are nothing to me . but they are my heart touching friends.... i cant see them dying ... oh please help them... i am scared of going school now... what about the families and parents ! there tears dropping watching there kids sleeping making them die ... i m 14... 9 standard... the increasing rate is coming .. 126 ... please politics... please my pakistani people ... help ! i feel like i wish i could help... i wish i can do something good to the country... all these ambulance.. all these childrens.. all these mother . all these fathers... god help.. why to us???? dear friends , from any religion u belong please i beg u ! take a step towards it .. one step towards it can make it better... yaallahmadad.. ! may allah give the courage to the families to bear this terror !

Pak Army Activate... Go get these animals...

TTP=SAVAGES, HEARTLESS; MAD. Hope Zarb-e-Azb does not spare a single one of them without exception. Deepest sympathy for all those who are suffering this horrific tragedy.

(This is my 3rd try. I don't understand what banned words I used in my comment so that you have to trash it.)

I was expecting some firing incident on LOC after losing the match, but now it seems that the wounds of hurt prestige were too deep and painful to be compensated merely by some aerial firing. Also the same day selected when Decca fell for this worst terrorist act cannot be a mere coincident and is probably used to convey the message.

Every body know that for these types of cowardly attacks who is responsible and who is having nature like this. So we should understand game and be prepared in future more to kill the navel in its home depth before coming out and damaging others. Believe enemy will retract easily as he is so coward that attack innocent children and can not compete with its own age mates.

Mentally retarded people are conecting the incident with PTI which is shameful act. our security agencies are responsible for this.

Imran Niazi, could you please spare CM KPK to focus on governance, law & order and working to what he has been paid for?

The Taliban are the enemy of ALL human beings, whatever faith. This goes to show what self serving monsters they are. So sorry for all those poor children and their families.

These terrorists are worse than animals.All they know is killing-overwhelmingly innocent people. I am feeling sorrow and very upset from this Incident. Why in our country happening these incidents. Oh God bless all of them are Shaheed in this incident. Why our agencies are still failed.

the terrorism will never end unless if there is actual moral superiority of pakistan vs terrorists. which there is no more. if they kill pakistani army children then think that maybe pakistani army and govt also kill their children in aerial bombings, but if true then one thing surely, you will never be told. but does anyone ask this question? no. yet crying the tears for only these specific children. is this moral, intellectual superiority? we can discuss only violence as answer to violence, we cannot question root causes solution. is this moral intellectual superiority? and with the demoncrazy democracy, can pakistan actually have the moral superiority over even terrorists? no, this will keep going on. we will be stuck between only democratic bhattakhori corruption amrika-ki-poojagiri culture on one side and on otherside the taliban terrorism culture. one will not end without other ending.

Hi folks We are with you in the time of grief. We pray to God give courage and support to the families. Guys on this side of the border we relish pulling and mud slinging our neighbors but can we look at supporting them in this moment. Contribute in any little way possible. Do let us if there are any such initiative

today is very sad day in the history of pakistan innocent students are killed

This is the time where IK must visit call off the protest and sit with the families of those who lost there loved ones.

I deeply condole the parents and families of the children who recieved jam e. Shahadat this morning and concerned about the children's who are injured,

My heart goes out to the families of those children who got killed by the terrorists in Peshawar.

I am not a mother but my heart is breaking, thinking of how the most innocent aND pure from mankind were targeted in this ruthless a manner. Islam taught us to be extra kind with the elderly, women and children. This is not Islam and these are most certainly NOT muslims. To call them monsters would be an understatement. Innalilahe wa inna ilahe raajiun :'(

leave Imran & nawaz.......................both are selfish Now just pray for them......

@Abdul Rasheed: very sad

Imran Khan!!! can you dare to say "Go Taliban GO"

It literally tears my heart to know that innocent children were killed in this cowardly attack. I hope Pakistan has the courage to do what is right: wipe off all forms of terror, even those that are seemingly in their interest.

a very painfull situation for all over pakistanis , these childrens were like our siblings , R.I.P :( Pak army now its ur turn to kill them bustards :@

Pakistan : United we Stand !

Very sad to see my country men, women & childern die today. May God bless there souls. AMEEN. But I m more sadden by the peoples comments who are using this news for political reasoning & comments. Surely one day you will also lose your love ones, on that day may be (if you are human and have heart) you can understand the pain and sorrow of the people who have lost there love ones today. It's a shame for nation that the people like you exist there. I feel myself very ashmed to be a Pakistani today just because you people are part of it.

Pakistan needs a "Mustafa Kamal"!! Forget PTI, PML, PPP or whatever. Politicians are too obtuse and have a very short-term mind frame. The country needs secular thinking....it cannot continue this way. The current social mindframe is an evil legacy of ZIA (and others like Saudi etc.) All mullahs and like-mined people (along with taliban) should be persecuted. Look at educated people like Junaid Jamshed. These are the people who need to be evicted from Pakistan. Basic aspects of life need to be concentrated on like clean water, an efficent and effictive health system, schools, cheap power, security. A COUNTRY WHERE ONE'S CHILDREN ARE SAFE AND ALIVE!!!! The Army should justify its 'expensive' existence by going all out, no more games by ISI. A complete and final eradication is required, Pakistani people need that!

Sad......My sympathies to the families of those injured or killed. Just exposes the "religiousness" of these extremists! Almost everything contrary to Koran.

My heart goes out to the parents who have lost their child/.children and to those who are undergoing torture hoping to see their children alive when the drama is over. If this doesnt move Pak to root out terorists lock stock and barrel,(including the "good" ones like in muridke) then there is no humanity in pakistan

May God bless the departed souls. My sincere condolences with the families in distress. Taking this opportunity, I'd request common pakis to get awakened and say no to Jehadist & wahaabi mindset.

ITS A TOTALLY IN HUMAN ACT KILLING INNOCENT STUDENTS SHAME ON YOU

No words are enough to describe how we feel about this tragedy but the comments from different people here still show that we are still not gathering up as a nation. We are still playing the blame game. Seriously, what tragedy are we waiting for to become one against these barbarians? Isnt this the worst that can happen to a nation? Please UNITE for once and get rid of all such elements may it be far away or closer to our homes. Please Please....

I STRONGLY CONDEM THIS ACT

Pakistan, don't forget this. Never let this attack be buried in the folds of time.

Time become for unity of politicians and nation, go ahead make strong to Pakistan Army. This is not a time for point scoring.

Too sad to read details. These kids had nothing to do with any operation or fight with anyone and should not have been harmed let alone killed with such brutally. No consolation can suffice for the loss of precious and innocent lives however we as a nation should stand united and set aside our petty disputes which have caused us enormously economically and is tearing the very fabric of the nation. I also can not avoid saying that entire nation and its institutions' focus, attention has been revolving around the Dharna party and politics around them. Its about time for the greater cause of nation, IK should shutdown his dharna and strengthen the country instead of carving and expanding his political consituency for his selfish causes ! May Allah SWT grant peace to the bereaved families and rest departed souls in Jannah. Ameen

Respected all,

Plz clear some issues here: * Put-aside your political soft corners to score points at this point in time as this is a national crises. * Plz pray for the peace in Pakistan * Plz be clear that TTP or any of these 'Mystery Characters' who are planted by the agents of US & India through CIA/FBI, RAW & all of their other partners in first creating this war on terror & now spreading it all over Pakistan & Afghanistan just to control the area. * Now, establishment declare a 'Think Tank' to clear the views & form strategy for the next 50 years at least with a 5 year plan to be followed & checked every 6 months so that we will have crystal clear road map to work at. * Establishment must also clear its policies & now start protecting the common men beside protecting the elites only. * Long Live Pakistan & may Almighty ALLAH kill the enemies of Pakistan at the earliest, Amin!

This is a political War waged by these savages...They can not belong to any religion for sure...If the Pakistani leaders can not see through the plans of these terrorists and wipe them out, future is very bleak for the country...

Shame on people killing innocent children in the name of religion. TTP are not Muslims. These people have no religion. No religion in the world; no matter how extreme; supports this kind of barbaric behaviour. And shame on all those people who are bashing the PTI and/or PMLN for political parties. People are dying and all you people care about is taunting each other. Shame shame shame!

Pathetic and horrible creatures these Taliban are... Children too being targeted!!!. Only cowards can do that.. Condolences from India...

Our heartfelt condolences to the parents of APS,Peshawar. This is a dastardly act which is totally inhuman and need to be condemned by complete world society. Once again its proven that terrorists are demon who wear cloak of religious righteousness and torchbearers of fighting injustice in society to justify their inhuman atrocities. We all pray for Pakistani society to fight through this crisis.

This is the time of unity not the political point scoring.

Shame on these people who are using this tragic incident as a base to play their dirty politics! The area has not yet been cleared, bodies are still coming out, the death toll is still counting and these * * * are talking about PTI/PMLN shit! ENOUGH guys, stop it please!!!! What is with you guys? Do you have no soul? Can't we be together at least in this tragic hour? How do you guys even look yourself at mirror!

@Proud Indian: pakistan DIDNOT create taliban .. yu may like to thank AMERICA for this ..pakistan has been fighting this war for a decade now ..and still stands strong... yur indian army has seen nothing like fighting these people ..ha! ...

We need to think. Imran Khan & Nawaz Sharif please stop this violence and stand together to fight these cruel people first. Please Please Please. Army is busy within these non sense and outside enemy is attacking us.

These are our kids, our nation, our country.

First defeat our enemy then sit and decide what to do about election political situation.

Please we have no time to think just act now

@Adil: So you know them??????You must be one of them.....Shame on you

As usual,after some moments,there will be news that the intelligence agencies had warned the law enforcement agencies,but the latter failed to respond.Useless are our intelligence agencies who always place their blame over others.Shame on them.Had they been active,this highly deplorable incidence could've been averted.

Hey! This is not the time for blame game between the supporters of political parties. This is the time to empathize with the parents of the deceased children and mourn the loss of innocent lives. Also remember, it is not the political parties that created and nurtured the terrorists. Hold those who use terrorism as state policy, responsible for the loss of lives.

Pakistani? Indian? American? are children different? I have seen pakistani's being proud, posting hate tweets when india is attacked? is that justified? ask urself. this attack is condemned....

Yesterday it was Sydney, today it is Peshawar and in Middle East it is every day. What is the common thread in all these incidents?

Security forces should arrest at least one attacker to find out the back of this attack & then attack the responsible group/country & till their end.

Sad is a word too short to describe this incidence. May Allah give peace to the deceased. And for those who are using this incident for political point scoring, please stop it, if there is any humanity left in you.

enough is enough, is any one who will really sincere for Pakistan & Pakistanis.

Such a tragedy... why kids? how can they do this?... :(

How they entered the school because the area is heavily guarded by army

So sad, Don't know what they want from Muslims especially from Innocent People, From Afghanistan side we condemn all attacks like this both in Afghanistan and Pakistan.Here in Afghanistan we see this kind of Attacks every day, It killed our Children, Elder, Woman and Youth.

Conclusion and Suggestion: For Ending this Afghanistan and Pakistan should truly give hands to each other to correctively address the Problem and sources of these Terrorists, Without a trust between these Two Country Peace is not Possible not only in Afghanistan and Pakistan but it is also a challenge for Europe Countries.

Just comprehending.. Only those can be provoked to such level of barbarism whose own children have been made to met the same fate.. Was Zarb-e-Azam involved in hitting schools etc. as usually the operations so far is predominantly air-striked..?

Very sad incidence.

i m simply worried for this why don't govt of pakistan make the law to hand people till death those have any kind of weapon even a single gun.and it should be implemented by force. just find a gun amd kill the person on spot.no FRI nor Court hearing. and one day everyone ll be safe in pakistan. may Allah keep blessing on all shohda's and their families. Ameen.

Sad!!! Condolences from across the border!!!

There seems to be no limit to the evil these savages will commit. Sincere condolences to the heart broken mothers, fathers and family members of these innocent victims.

i don't see any difference between the culprits of this event and the ones here blaming each other ...

@rg: Why bringing religion into this. And ET not even blocking the comment. Shame.

I am deeply shocked and can't express myself.

Nothing can be more dastardly than targeting children. The stone for these activities was laid down back in the 80s when pakistan decided to walk the path of 'the holy war'. This is here to stay now.

Oh Allah...What a sad news, I feel so proud when i hear that few are lion and few are tiger in this country but with regret only few jackals always hit innocents, our lions are ruling in Punjab and tigers are ruling in KPK...in the presence of TIGERS always unforeseen happen in KPK, WHY?

I am not the supporter of PMLN, But here Nawaz has to ask govt. of KP forcefully to act smart on it, and do something fast in Operation Zarb-e-Azb and Operation Khyber-I. as they said "We want them to feel our pain".

After going through above comments I am sure Pakistan would not change in 100 of years to come. This land had never produced any one who can be appreciated for the love and progress of humanity and it would never see men/ women who would do any good to even themselves. All they can do is killing. I can understand the feelings of parents of those dear children who lost their life for no fault of them. But I am stunt at the shameless heads of PML-N and PTI supporters. I curse them so that they may go through the same tragedy.

@Rubab Farooqui: Funny how you could be so heartless and write something of this sort, imagine your kid/sibling being stuck in this school.

It is the more than enough, now it is the time to not only condemn these action but pull the roots out where ever they are and punish them in such a way that one else could dare to even think about such brutality. I recommend all people not to blame any govt. or military as all are doing for Pakistan just raze your voice against all cruel groups and there sponsors.

@Indian: They are Muslims.

Wondering if this can be compared to banu quarayza and beslan massacre.

Those who are still doing politics over this incident are SICK!

Please stop writing petty comment about political parties, none of them would have wanted a genocide of this sort, have a heart, it could happen to any of us!

also today is 16th Dec, the day when pak was chopped in 2 pieces

@lahori: so is lahore and lahori taking responsibility of this incident. IS the repercussion of shutting down lahore is massacre of innocent children in KPK.....please try to own what you write. This should be taken as a national issue as TTP is threat to all, instead there is a blame game going on..when will we learn to be Pakistan and Human instead of party worker.

Stand firm Pakistan; TTP and their sympathizers within us are cowards who can slaughter innocent children but cannot defeat the indomitable sill of the people of Pakistan.

@Saad: Is main PTI ka keyaa fault? The attack is on Army School read it once again Sir, Please stoping be political right now and Dua kero kay ap salamat hoo. Shame on you all Pakistani youth who talk like this in this situation.

@Rubab Farooqui: What else can one expect when you have an army chief more interested his name in the press every single day?

Coward Indian agents. Go Pak Army and empty your stores on these paid killers to erase them from Pak land.

@ Arshid Khaliq Sad Sad Sad ap kay comment per

Very sad to see your comment. You are blind just like your leader who is more anxious to become PM than to settle issue in KPK. Please note this kpk where so called efficient govt and CM dances at islamabad.

I am self ashamed to post this comment at this sad time, but this was necessary to show you mirror.

Very Sad :( we should not spare a single person of TTP we with u pak army ...

In this hour of our tragedy, we must stay calm and give them befitting response without transgression, and without out going beyond the rule of law. Mr. President, please sign the execution of death penalties on all convicted Talibans currently in jails all over the Pakistan and the executions must be carried out by tomorrow morning.

All is the result which leaders like Fazal ur Rehman and Zia ul Haq seeded in this Country.

@Saad: Please speak some sense.!

My prayers and heart are with the families of slain children. What a tragedy for them. May Allah give them strength to cope with such huge loss of children. And may Allah punish punish these barbarians to the maximum through hands of Army or Pak. People.

We want Marshal Law.... We hate this so called DEMOCRACY

Now where is Mr. Sonami..... is he still crying for rigging in Election..? Shame on You PTI and PML-N both

This is very bad . Please go kill them

Where is Law and Enforcement Agencies?

Shame to PTI and JI, they always sided with TTP. Shame Shame, What they can say now !

While their own province burns and has become a near picture of gloom, despondency and abysmality - the functionaries of KPK government are busy thrashing out the architectural schematics of Naya Pakistan while sipping over cigars and cappucinos at Banigala, Khosar Market and Jinnah Market in Islamabad.

I besiege Nawaz Sharif to form a coalition government in KPK and oust the incompetent PTI. . They are useless and have no idea of national interest and protecting the people.

Dear All, This is national tragedy, don,t drag Nawaz And Imran here...

You will not be spared TTP... u just digged your grave deeper..

Oh ALLAH have mercy on us. This is such a big loss, a national tragedy. I have all my sympathies with those who have lost there dear ones. What worst can these ruthless, barbarian, and worthless so called talibans do? I have tears in my eyes.

Where is our Law and Enforcement Agencies?

you will block and shutdown Lahore...we will response you in Peshawar...

@Rubab Farooqui: Very sad. Same will be response of Marvi Memon, Sharmila Farooqi, Shehla Raza. Keep some distance from them

Once these terrorists are caught... they should be hanged in front of everyone. No Court case is required in this matter...!!

I suggest we hold a candle light vigil and observe a minute of silence in every educational institution and work place to show our utmost solidarity with all these kids. God Bless each and every one of them

@Ali Rizvi: This is not time for criticizing containers. Don't use politics in this situation

@oBSERVER: "You transgender it is the reaction...." The way one enters a room betrays ones breeding.How should I blame you.

@Proud Indian: Rather than condemning this barbaric act, you are more interested in paying gratitude to indian army. Being a human being is far more important than a proud indian.

Army did not secure their school, Where was their intellegence, their illicit sons hve killed real ones.

To all the overt and covert supporters of Deen-e-Imrani, y'all were quick to pounce upon Shahbaz Sharif and Punjab Government over the tragedy at Wagah border - even though not only the point of that attack but the entire area spreading over miles has always been under "Waqar's" control.

I am praying for the safety of each and every child and may God give strength to the families who have lost loved ones !! Humanity needs to hit the "Reset" button.

Sad.May Allah safe Pakistan

Ya ALLAH help us.Help us.Help us.

And one important question.

Is it symbolic or just a coincidence that today is December 16th?

Is TTP trying to say that Pakistan will suffer another 1971?

This act is totally evil, they are devils.

@ Abdu Rasheed @Rubab

Please please wake up. I am not supporter of pti but only a common Pakistani and now not able to see TV live news and just took this ET news for expression. All my family members are weeping in Lahore and nobody took lunch today.

May God make us a nation then all problems will be over Insha Allah. I am very hopeful that this sad incident will be a lesson for our leaders to go to right direction. We pray for safety of all kids in all schools of Pakistan.

Greatest national tragedy ever...speechless. My little angels, rest in peace.

I am really very sad after this incident happened in PAKISTAN but i am shocked to see the comments of my fellow citizens who are draging IK & Nawaz in this situation shame on you guys

First the ISIS creating a mess in Australia and now this. Is this the Arab spring and the Caliphate everyone was dreaming about? God bless I do not live in such a country and do not follow such a religion.

Looks like beslan school massacre.

@sabi: Are you seriously joking with me?! In a time of crisis, when women and children are being slaughtered. You're seriously blaming political entities for this?! Have some sense of humility. Pray for the departed and those still to be rescued.

Very sad for us for Pakistan for future of nation. Same sad of peoples who are trying to use this incident for political blame game as did by pti when WAHGA Border incident happened. For God sake become a nation and feeling pain like human being only. I pray for safety of students from this incident and any incident in future.

strongly condemn this sort of brutal attack on the minors which shows fatal mentality

@pakistani: Do you even understand the word 'gloating'? I went through every post and nobody seemed to be gloating. I certainly saw a few posts that tried to score brownie points like your own.

Am a father and tears in my eyes. God bless the poor little souls. What kind of animals are these! :((

It is sad to see the commonman is fighting just for to support their leaders integrity... the common man is getting killed yet still we are fighting to save our so called leaders ... whether it be nawaz or IK ... grow up!!!! and look at the wider picture...

Wipe out all the terrorists by negotiating with them !!!

shocked to see ppl already started blaming political parties for this.. I m no PTI fan but this is not the place ... We are just divided...

Province Faith Political Parties

We need to be one against a united enemy...

I reiterate once again that this is the job of forces behind dharna walas.I hold IK fully responsible for this massacre.He helped his handlers keeping writ of the state away from terrorists thereby giving them enough room to play havoc with innocent citizens.He did it for 15 years long on consistent basis for his ugly desires.He is a collaborator in putting Pakistan into blood bath.Is that clear to you pti walas?. My heart weeps with victims of this barbaric attack.

this is not good. to kill innocent children in school .... we want peace and justice ...

Dear IK, what happened to 90 day promise?

TTP has ultimately taken over PlanD from its political wing, PTI, when the later failed in Plans A, B & C.

NUKE the Taliban areas NOW. Dont even spare a single soul. NUKE then NUKE them NUKE them

This has achieved its shock effect indeed. There was another attempt at shock effect yesterday in Lahore where Shah Mahmood Qureshi casually dismissed the death of four persons in blocked ambulances as just collateral damage. Should this callousness be condemned any less. Taliban are just a more violent form of anarchists.

"Until and unless you don’t get to the root of the problem and dig it out ……. this will keep happening. The religious extremist’s ideology is nurtured within our four walls …… denying this and not taking steps to curb it will only prolong our agony."

But denial is the only thing that people know.

Just in another blog, someone wrote that Islam needs reform and a dozen people slammed him saying Islam is perfect, the problem is with muslims.

So, who will bell the cat?

This warsak road is completely under army control, and still they cant prevent this from happening, very sad to know.

for those trying to score political points... shame in you... no humanity in you guys...

and indians as usual gloating over this event. shame on you....

How tragic and really depressing. What was the fault of the innocent children?

Pak army should stop pussyfooting and distinguishing between good terrorist and bad terrorist.

Remember someone from Muridke might be a good terrorist today. Tomorrow, he will turn on you.

Dear Mr. CM KPK, Can you please spare some time for People of your province? What is more important to you.......your Lock Down Pakistan or restoring peace in the province? TTP is already helping you in your mission of crippling this country

PTI has failed. It's time they resign from KP government as they clearly cant protect the citizens. More importantly, all their energy is focused on dharna's. SO stop playing with people's lives and give chance to those who will take care of KP people. As you clearly have failed.

very sad day for Pakistan.... innocent students and teachers so much so for the choice of rule.

barbaric people who cheer for terrorists should think again!

Every day there is something about muslims in the news. Sadly it is violence connected. Why if I may ask?

Who will be first one to put blame of these killing of children on India ?

Until and unless you don't get to the root of the problem and dig it out ....... this will keep happening. The religious extremist's ideology is nurtured within our four walls ...... denying this and not taking steps to curb it will only prolong our agony.

they should be using more force and power these are children the future of the amazing country.

@Sonya: and, imran's this fight with government is only for TTP - he said if i would have been the PM then I would not have allowed army to do the action against TTP

@sabi: You transgender it is the reaction of PML N who has contacts with TTP. Rana Sana should be arrested for questioning about this act.

@Adnan Siddiqi: I can see you are kinda happy that this attack at a school happened in "Peshawar". So you could come up with your ugly political agenda and spew it all over here in comment section and feel proud about it.

For once keep the dirty politics to your self @sabi:

an anyone please tell me the list of those martyred??? Pleaseed

Mindsets cannot be changed. Killings will not stop. Between Pakistan and Afghanistan provide them with a tract of land where they can rule by themselves and not interfere with the two countries and the world.

@ Adnan Siddiqui Even Nawaz Sharif sons are in London, UK. What about that ?. They have their businesses there and are settlers.

we need martial law in pakistan and we know our political leaders are talktive and doing nothing.If army rule will imposed in our country then none of these damn TTP will do anything against our country..Please Allah help us in this critical situation and give us strength to overcome..

God bless pakistan

Shocked.... Sad..... Angry.... No words

@sabi: At this time you are mentioning that it is because of Dharna when 15 childeren lost their life and operation is going on. You are trying to put blame on PTI even when this incident is happening. Are you so blind in supporting your master Nawaz Sharif that you are not even feeling the need to highlight the pain our people are going trough but it is more important for you to highlight Dharna and PTI. Seriously, today our country is here because of people like you. We as nation have lost values. I am a PTI suppoeerters and if it was happend in Punjab I would not have jumped to blame PMLN but be worried about our people. For god sake wake up. Please please please be Pakistani first and human even before that.

I can't see kids of my own country being killed in schools. This is the worst thing that can happen to any country. To all officials and security institutes: Can you tell us when this is going to end ? Its been 12 years fighting is on and it seems we haven't won any thing. These cowards are targeting our schools and kids now. When this terrorism is going to end ?

May the gods take pity and end this ordeal ASAP this way or that .

I'm not a PTI supporter, but could the people posting comments blaming the party please stop? Does this look like the right time to win political brownie points?

and Nawaz Sharif wanted only talks with Talibans and wasted nation's time.

Tribune..Shaheed not killed..May Allah be with them.....ameen

Children are paying for Ziaul Huq and Nawaz Sharifs dream of non secular Pakistan.They engineered the down fall of secular PPP in 70 ties.

Sad Day for all human being ... Go Pak Army Kill them .

The government should not show any mercy and they should be paid in the same coin. The whole families of these terrorists should be massacred.

No problem Ik, Focuss on Dharna

To prevent them from blowing up schools, all of them should be converted to madrassas.

All leads linking to handlers of dharna walas.This is education reforms idea of pti.

Play with fire hoping that it will result in burning neighbors house only..see the result.

Are they now so scared of the army that they're forced to attack innocents in school? And people in our country actually support these guys?

Targeting of innocent school going children is a dastardly act and need to be condemned.

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Essay Writing Service

Have a native essay writer do your task from scratch for a student-friendly price of just per page. Free edits and originality reports.

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Can I Trust You With Other Assignments that aren't Essays?

The best way to complete a presentation speech is with a team of professional writers. They have the experience, the knowledge, and ways to impress your prof. Another assignment you can hire us for is an article review. Evaluating someone's work with a grain of salt cannot be easy, especially if it is your first time doing this. To summarize, article reviews are a challenging task. Good that you've found our paper service and can now drop your worries after placing an order. If reading 100-page-long academic articles and digging into every piece of information doesn't sound like something you'd want to do on a Sunday night, hire our essay writing company to do your research proposal. Are you struggling with understanding your professors' directions when it comes to homework assignments? Hire professional writers with years of experience to earn a better grade and impress your parents. Send us the instructions, and your deadline, and you're good to go. We're sure we have a professional paper writer with the skills to complete practically any assignment for you. We only hire native English speakers with a degree and 3+ years of experience, some are even uni professors.

Earl M. Kinkade

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Finished Papers

Finished Papers

Customer Reviews

Customer Reviews

Our Professional Writers Are Our Pride

EssayService boasts its wide writer catalog. Our writers have various fields of study, starting with physics and ending with history. Therefore we are able to tackle a wide range of assignments coming our way, starting with the short ones such as reviews and ending with challenging tasks such as thesis papers. If you want real professionals some of which are current university professors to write your essays at an adequate price, you've come to the right place! Hiring essay writers online as a newcomer might not be the easiest thing to do. Being cautious here is important, as you don't want to end up paying money to someone who is hiring people with poor knowledge from third-world countries. You get low-quality work, company owners become financial moguls, and those working for such an essay writing service are practically enduring intellectual slavery. Our writing service, on the other hand, gives you a chance to work with a professional paper writer. We employ only native English speakers. But having good English isn't the only skill needed to ace papers, right? Therefore we require each and every paper writer to have a bachelor's, master's, or Ph.D., along with 3+ years of experience in academic writing. If the paper writer ticks these boxes, they get mock tasks, and only with their perfect completion do they proceed to the interview process.

Looking for something more advanced and urgent? Then opt-in for an advanced essay writer who’ll bring in more depth to your research and be able to fulfill the task within a limited period of time. In college, there are always assignments that are a bit more complicated and time-taking, even when it’s a common essay. Also, in search for an above-average essay writing quality, more means better, whereas content brought by a native English speaker is always a smarter choice. So, if your budget affords, go for one of the top 30 writers on our platform. The writing quality and finesse won’t disappoint you!

Premium essay writers

Essay writing help from a premium expert is something everyone has to try! It won’t be cheap but money isn’t the reason why students in the U.S. seek the services of premium writers. The main reason is that the writing quality premium writers produce is figuratively out of this world. An admission essay, for example, from a premium writer will definitely get you into any college despite the toughness of the competition. Coursework, for example, written by premium essay writers will help you secure a positive course grade and foster your GPA.

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How do essay writing services work?

In the modern world, any company is trying to modernize its services. And services for writing scientific papers are no exception. Therefore, now it is very easy to order work and does not take time:

• First, you need to choose a good site that you can trust. Read their privacy policies, guarantees, payment methods and of course reviews. It will be a big plus that examples of work are presented on the online platform.
• Next, you need to contact a manager who will answer all the necessary questions and advise on the terms of cooperation. He will tell you about the acceptable writing deadlines, provide information about the author, and calculate the price of the essay.
• After that, you sign the contract and during the indicated days stay in touch with the employee of the company.
• Then you receive the file, read it attentively and transfer a certain amount to the company's bank card. After payment, the client downloads the document to his computer and can write a review and suggestions.

On the site Essayswriting, you get guarantees, thanks to which you will be confident and get rid of the excitement. The client can ask any questions about the writing and express special preferences.

Our Team of Essay Writers.

Some students worry about whether an appropriate author will provide essay writing services to them. With our company, you do not have to worry about this. All of our authors are professionals. You will receive a no less-than-great paper by turning to us. Our writers and editors must go through a sophisticated hiring process to become a part of our team. All the candidates pass the following stages of the hiring process before they become our team members:

• Diploma verification. Each essay writer must show his/her Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. diploma.
• Grammar test. Then all candidates complete an advanced grammar test to prove their language proficiency.
• Writing task. Finally, we ask them to write a small essay on a required topic. They only have 30 minutes to complete the task, and the topic is not revealed in advance.
• Interview. The final stage is a face-to-face interview, where our managers test writers' soft skills and find out more about their personalities.

So we hire skilled writers and native English speakers to be sure that your project's content and language will be perfect. Also, our experts know the requirements of various academic styles, so they will format your paper appropriately.

John N. Williams

Customer Reviews

Sophia Melo Gomes

Emilie Nilsson

Who is an essay writer? 3 types of essay writers

Earl M. Kinkade

Courtney Lees

Write an essay from varied domains with us!

Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. Our support team will be more than willing to assist you.

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Still not convinced check out the best features of our service:, know us better.

• Knowledge Base
• Referencing Styles
• Know Our Consultance
• Revision and Refund Policy
• Terms Of Use

How can I be sure you will write my paper, and it is not a scam?