LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif announced the cancellation of all her Basant-related activities scheduled for tomorrow (February 7, 2026), including the mega Basant show planned at Liberty Square.
This decision comes in the wake of the tragic suicide bombing at Khadijat-ul-Kubra Mosque (an Imambargah) in Islamabad’s Tarlai Kalan area on February 6, 2026, during Friday prayers.
The attack claimed at least 31 lives and injured over 169 people, with the death toll confirmed by officials including Islamabad’s deputy commissioner.
It was identified as a suicide bombing, sparking widespread condemnation and emergency responses across the country.
In her statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) at around 8:06 PM PKT on February 6, Maryam Nawaz expressed solidarity with the victims and urged national unity against the “Khwarji menace” (a term often used in Pakistani official discourse for extremist elements like TTP or similar groups) and their sympathizers. She called for no mercy toward them and emphasized standing “shoulder to shoulder” with the Armed Forces to defend the country, ending with “Pakistan Zindabad” and the national flag.
This comes amid the revival of Basant festivities in Lahore after nearly two decades, with Punjab’s government (under Maryam Nawaz) lifting the long-standing ban and declaring February 6 a provincial holiday for the event (running February 6-8 under strict regulations to prevent past issues like sharp strings or gunfire-related injuries). However, the Islamabad tragedy prompted this partial scale-back from her side, reflecting mourning and sensitivity to the national mood.
Other reactions include designer Maria B. also opting out of Basant celebrations, citing reasons to mourn.
Punjab authorities had earlier mobilized resources like ambulances to support Islamabad’s response.
The incident has heightened security concerns, with the nation uniting in grief and resolve against terrorism.
