ISLAMABAD, Aug 6 (IN): Speakers at a special condolence reference held in memory of former Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) Chairman Pervez Butt paid rich tribute to his outstanding contributions to Pakistan’s nuclear programme, describing him as a “silent hero” whose dedication and professional excellence played a vital role in making the country’s atomic project a “remarkable success story.”The reference, organised by Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed in Islamabad, was attended by Pervez Butt’s family members, friends, colleagues, admirers, former Directors General of the Strategic Plans Division (SPD), scientists, engineers, technicians of PAEC, and prominent figures from various walks of life.Addressing the gathering, Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed described Pervez Butt as a sincere, highly talented and exceptionally professional individual who devoted his entire life to Pakistan’s nuclear programme.
He said Pervez Butt was among the “silent heroes” of Pakistan’s atomic project because he never sought personal fame or publicity despite his remarkable professional achievements.Senator Mushahid said five key personalities played a historic role in making Pakistan a nuclear power, including former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, who laid the foundation of the nuclear programme; former President Ghulam Ishaq Khan, who headed the committee overseeing the development of the programme from 1975 to 1993; former President General Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq, who continued to strengthen the programme during his tenure; and renowned scientists Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan and Munir Ahmad Khan, who served as PAEC chairmen and made significant contributions.He further highlighted the contributions of five scientists who ensured consistent implementation of critical decisions related to the nuclear programme, including Pervez Butt and Dr Ashfaq Ahmed, both former PAEC chairmen and members of the team that selected Chagai as the site for Pakistan’s nuclear tests in 1979.Sharing historical accounts, Senator Mushahid Hussain recalled that in October 1979, then US Secretary of State Cyrus Vance had pressured Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Agha Shahi over the nuclear programme, warning that Washington would not allow Pakistan to develop an atomic capability.He also recalled an incident when US Congressman Stephen Solarz threatened sanctions against Pakistan’s nuclear programme, after which then PAEC Chairman Munir Ahmad Khan highlighted the possible impact on Pakistan-US cooperation over Afghanistan, leading Washington to reconsider its position.Referring to former Indian National Security Adviser Shiv Shankar Menon’s remarks in 2012, Senator Mushahid said India’s strategic calculations had been influenced by Pakistan’s nuclear capability, which helped prevent aggression against the country.
PAEC Chairman Dr Raza Ali Anwar paid tribute to Pervez Butt, calling him an exemplary leader of the scientists and engineers who served at PAEC. He said Butt was a true role model who led through his actions and professional commitment.Renowned journalist and anchorperson Hamid Mir said Pervez Butt and his colleagues deserved immense appreciation for dedicating their lives to strengthening Pakistan’s defence capabilities. He said their services would always be remembered by the nation with honour.Pervez Butt’s daughter, Dr Shehzada Butt, remembered her father as an ideal parent, husband and grandfather. She said he maintained a perfect balance between his professional responsibilities and family life, remaining deeply committed to both.
The condolence reference was chaired by Dr Akram Sheikh, a close friend of Pervez Butt, who praised his professional expertise, dedication and unwavering commitment to building Pakistan’s nuclear defence capability. He described him as a “rare human being” and said Pakistan owed a great deal to professionals like him.The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Senator Sitara Ayaz, Secretary of the International Parliamentarians Congress (IPC).
