Islamabad: Mohsin-e-Pakistan Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan (
https://www.prideofpakistan.com/who-is-who-detail/Dr-A-Q-Khan/72)has departed for his eternal abode on Sunday after his health declined and he was shifted to ventilator support. The family of the iconic nuclear physicist confirmed the passing, saying he had been in a very critical health condition and was shifted to the ICU.
After contracting COVID earlier, DR. A. Q. Khan had recovered but his health suddenly deteriorated and was shifted to KRL Hospital's ICU. Nuclear scientist Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan passed away in Islamabad on Sunday morning at the age of 85. He was given a state funeral at Faisal Mosque, while his burial was held at H-8 graveyard.
A large number of people, including cabinet members, parliamentarians and military officers, attended the funeral prayers.
Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed earlier said that under the directions issued by Prime Minister Imran Khan, Dr Khan was given a state funeral.
Speaking to the media in Islamabad, he said that the premier had directed cabinet ministers to attend the funeral. The interior minister said that the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee and the services chiefs would also be in attendance.
Sheikh Rashid said two graves were prepared; one at Faisal Mosque and another at the H-8 graveyard. He later said his family decided that as per his will he will be buried at the H-8 graveyard. The whole nation is grieving, the minister said, adding that the flag would be flown at half-mast.
Prime Minister Imran Khan said Dr Khan was loved by the nation because of his critical contribution in making Pakistan a nuclear weapon state. This has provided us security against an aggressive much larger nuclear neighbour. For the people of Pakistan he was a national icon.