Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti has announced a civil award for Abdul Razzaq Tarakai, a Civil Hospital Quetta employee who displayed exceptional courage and humanity by rushing to assist Dr Mahnoor Nisar immediately after she was attacked with acid while on duty.
The incident, which shocked the nation and sparked widespread concern regarding the safety of healthcare professionals, occurred at Civil Hospital Quetta when an employee allegedly attacked Dr Mahnoor with acid. According to police officials, the doctor suffered burn injuries to her face, chest, legs, and other parts of her body.
Medical experts treating Dr Mahnoor confirmed that despite the severity of the attack, her eyes remained protected and her overall condition is stable. Following initial treatment in Quetta, she was transferred to Karachi for specialized medical care and is currently receiving treatment at Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH).
The heroic actions of Abdul Razzaq Tarakai gained national attention after video footage of the incident circulated on social media. The footage showed Tarakai rushing toward the injured doctor moments after the attack, covering her with his jacket and helping her reach safety while providing immediate assistance during the critical moments following the incident.
Recognizing his bravery, Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti announced that Tarakai would receive a civil award for demonstrating extraordinary courage, humanity, and dedication to duty. In a public statement, the chief minister praised his actions and described him as an example for society.
Bugti stated that individuals like Abdul Razzaq Tarakai represent the finest values of humanity and serve as role models by helping others even during dangerous and challenging situations. His announcement received appreciation from various sectors of society, including healthcare professionals and civil rights advocates.
The recognition extended beyond the provincial government. Member of the National Assembly Aseefa Bhutto Zardari strongly condemned the acid attack and revealed that she had requested President Asif Ali Zardari to consider conferring one of Pakistan’s highest civilian awards upon Tarakai for his remarkable act of bravery.
According to a statement issued by the President’s Secretariat, Aseefa Bhutto praised Tarakai’s selfless gallantry and said his timely intervention played a vital role in saving a precious life. She described his actions as an inspiring example of compassion and humanity for the entire nation.
Aseefa Bhutto also emphasized the urgent need to address violence against women and called for strict legal action against those responsible for such crimes. She stressed that society must take collective steps to prevent similar incidents in the future and ensure the safety of women in workplaces and public spaces.
Meanwhile, investigations into the acid attack continued. Police officials stated that the suspected attacker was later traced to an area near a bus terminal where he was allegedly attempting to flee. Authorities reported that the suspect was killed during an encounter with law enforcement personnel.
Doctors at Aga Khan University Hospital continue to monitor Dr Mahnoor’s condition. Hospital sources indicated that while she developed bilateral corneal opacities, her vision remains intact. Medical teams comprising ophthalmologists and plastic surgeons are conducting detailed assessments and providing specialized treatment.
Sources further revealed that the burns appear to be largely superficial, offering hope for recovery. Medical experts continue to evaluate treatment options to ensure the best possible outcome for the young doctor.
The incident has renewed discussions regarding hospital security, workplace safety, and the protection of healthcare workers across Pakistan. Medical associations have repeatedly called for stronger security measures to safeguard doctors, nurses, and hospital staff from violence and harassment.
As the nation continues to follow Dr Mahnoor’s recovery, Abdul Razzaq Tarakai’s courageous actions have become a symbol of humanity and selflessness, demonstrating how ordinary individuals can make an extraordinary difference during moments of crisis.
