Islamabad (HRNW) Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan, the father of Pakistan’s atomic weapons program, passed away early Sunday morning. He was given a state funeral at the Faisal Mosque and laid to rest at the H-8 graveyard.
The nuclear scientist, 85, was rushed to a private hospital in Islamabad after his health deteriorated.
Rasheed said that the doctors did everything to save the nuclear scientist’s life but couldn’t do so. Doctors added the scientist passed away after his lungs collapsed.
“When he was admitted at the military hospital a few days back, Dr Khan expressed his desire to be laid to rest at the Faisal Mosque,” the interior minister told media.
He also wanted the vice-chancellor of the International Islamic University to lead the funeral prayers. “We are finalising arrangements for that,” Rasheed said.
Dr AQ Khan’s funeral prayers were held at the Faisal Mosque at 3:30pm. The scientist’s family has announced that he will be buried at the H-8 graveyard.
Earlier, on August 27, the nuclear scientist was moved to the KRL Hospital after he contracted Covid. Last month, according to a report by DAWN, the scientist complained that neither Prime Minister Imran Khan, nor his cabinet members inquired after his health.
Dr AQ Khan was lauded for bringing the nation up to par with arch-rival India in the atomic field and making its defences “impregnable”.
At 3:30pm, the scientist’s body reached Faisal Mosque for the funeral prayers. A huge number of people gathered outside the mosque to offer their condolences.
Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan was also given a guard of honour before the funeral prayers commenced.
About 5pm, his body was brought to the H-8 graveyard where he was laid to rest.
Earlier in the day, a notification issued by the Ministry of Interior revealed that the national flag of Pakistan will be flown at half-mast on Sunday. The government had announced a state funeral for Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan.
Prime Minister Imran Khan has instructed the X Corps, Chairman joint chief of army staff, and leaders of the navy and airforce to ensure their presence at Dr AQ Khan’s funeral, the federal interior minister said in a press conference Sunday.
The police, Rangers, and FC personnel were handed over the responsibility of the security.
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