A Pakistani university that was attacked last week by militants opened its doors again temporarily Monday. At least 21 people, including 18 students, were killed in the attack..
Students returned to Bacha Khan university briefly for a prayer service to remember their fallen friends.
“We’re here to avenge our blood," said One. "How long will Pashtun kids continue to die?”
“Pashtuns have always been labeled terrorists. But we want to show that we are not terrorists. We are victims of terrorism," said a faculty member.
The university is only open to the faculty and staff for now, amid tight security. There will be no classes until further notice. The administration said it is considering several factors, including a forecast for dense fog for several days. The attackers last week used fog as cover as they stormed the campus.
Parents of some of the victims also attended the prayer service. One father demanded an independent inquiry.
“There should be a judicial inquiry so that we find out who was negligent in their responsibilities. And they should be duly punished. Once you have one judicial inquiry and responsible parties punished, such incidents will stop," said a father of a victim.
Later, outside the gates, students held up banners, some demanding revenge, others seeking peace.
