QUETTA (Web Desk) -Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti on Sunday announced the naming of a road in Duki district after Dr Mahnoor Nasir, a young doctor who survived a brutal acid attack earlier this year.
The provincial government said the decision was taken to recognise the 29-year-old doctor’s courage, resilience and professional services following the attack that left her with serious burn injuries.
Dr Nasir, associated with Quetta’s Civil Hospital, was attacked in June when a hospital employee allegedly threw acid on her. She sustained severe burns to her face, chest, legs and other parts of her body.
Police later identified the alleged attacker as Humayun Shah. According to authorities, the suspect was subsequently killed in an encounter after law enforcement personnel traced him while he was allegedly attempting to escape on a bus.
Announcing the decision in a post on X, Chief Minister Bugti praised Dr Nasir for demonstrating courage and a strong sense of professional duty despite the ordeal.
He described her determination as an example for the daughters of Balochistan and said recognising citizens who demonstrate exceptional courage and commitment was a responsibility of the government.
According to an official notification shared by the chief minister, Haji Amanullah Masjid Road, adjacent to Damani Chowk in Duki, has been renamed “Dr Mahnoor Nasar Road, Duki” with immediate effect.
The notification said the step was taken as public recognition of her bravery, resilience and services as a medical professional.
Acid attack sparked widespread outrage
The attack on Dr Nasir triggered widespread condemnation across Balochistan and other parts of Pakistan, with members of the medical community, government officials and judicial authorities expressing concern over the incident.
Doctors in Quetta also observed a strike following the attack, demanding a comprehensive investigation and measures to ensure the safety of healthcare professionals.
The case subsequently drew further national attention after the Supreme Court delivered a significant judgment concerning acid violence.
In its ruling issued days after the incident, the apex court described “vitriolage”, or an acid attack, as an offence more heinous than homicide, highlighting the devastating and often lifelong physical and psychological consequences suffered by survivors.
What the decision means
Naming a public road after Dr Nasir gives official recognition to an acid attack survivor rather than allowing her identity to be defined solely by the violence committed against her.
The provincial government’s decision also sends a message that courage and public service should be publicly acknowledged, particularly when victims continue to demonstrate resilience after suffering serious violence.
Wider impact
Acid attacks can leave survivors facing extensive medical treatment, permanent physical injuries and prolonged social and psychological consequences. Dr Nasir’s case once again brought the issue of violence against women and workplace safety into public debate.
The strong reaction from the medical community also highlighted concerns about the protection of doctors and other healthcare workers at hospitals.
Future outlook
The Supreme Court’s strong observations on acid attacks, coupled with public recognition of survivors such as Dr Nasir, could add momentum to demands for stricter enforcement of laws against perpetrators and stronger institutional safeguards for potential victims.
For Balochistan, the naming of the Duki road represents both recognition of Dr Nasir’s personal courage and a broader public statement against acid violence.
