On January 6, 2014, Aitzaz Hasan, a ninth-grade student at Government Higher Secondary School, Ibrahimzai in Hangu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, prevented a tragedy. He intercepted a suicide bomber outside his school, triggering the explosives early and saving over 400 students. Aitzaz received the Sitara-e-Shujaat posthumously for his bravery.
Today marks the 11th anniversary of his heroic act. Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to Aitzaz’s courage on social media. “Today, we remember Shaheed Aitezaz Hasan, whose bravery stands as a beacon of hope and resilience,” he stated. He emphasized that Aitzaz, at just 15, significantly impacted many lives and continues to inspire.
Despite the accolades, Aitzaz’s family voices disappointment over unfulfilled government promises. His father, Mujahid Ali, expressed, “Aitzaz was not only our child but the nation’s. The world recognizes his sacrifice, yet the government has not fulfilled its promises.”
Classmates, including Yasir Hussain, remember Aitzaz with deep affection. “We all miss him and urge the government to honour his memory and the commitments made,” Hussain stated.
The government had pledged to construct a sports ground and degree colleges in Aitzaz’s honour, but these promises remain unmet, leaving his family and community disheartened.
On this solemn day, Hasan’s family and the local community call on the government to fulfil its promises and preserve Aitzaz’s legacy.
