- Minister tells Senate that 97 Pakistanis died in Mina and 30 are still missing
Members of the Senate on Monday strongly condemned the dismissal of the elected government on October 12 in 1999.
Speaking on a motion regarding the existing political situation in the country, moved by Usman Kakar, they said that the country suffered immensely in different fields because of the dictatorial regime.
The members emphasised that all institutions should work within the parameters set by the law and the constitution. They also called for the formulation of a national agenda that takes care of concerns from all federating units, so that the country moves forward on the path of progress and prosperity.
Some of the members expressed concern over excessive election expenditure and demanded more powers for the Election Commission. Those who spoke on the motion included Saeed Ghani, Azam Swati, Sardar Azam Khan Musakhel, Ch. Tanvir Khan, Salahuddin Tirmizi, Shahi Syed, Nihal Hashmi and Mushahidullah Khan.
Minister of State for Religious Affairs Pir Aminul Hasnat told the House that in all 97 Pakistanis lost their lives in the Mina tragedy. Two injured are presently in the hospital and thirty pilgrims are still missing.
He said that the foreign office is in contact with the Saudi government so that family members and heirs of those who have martyred in Mina tragedy can be sent to the country.
He said that a special flight would be sent to Saudi Arabia as soon as a green signal is received from the country. He said that the government has already announced assistance worth Rs 500,000 for the heirs of each of the martyrs, and Rs 200,000 each for those injured.
The chairman asked Hasnat to brief the House on the Mina incident again on Tuesday. Responding to a motion moved by Sehar Kamran, Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Aftab Ahmed Sheikh said that the National Counter-terrorism Authority would be activated on war footing keeping in view the prevailing security situation in the country.
