Islamabad blasts death toll rises to 16

At least 16 people were killed and several others were injured in twin blasts in Islamabad at the venue of lawyers rally, which was to be addressed by the suspended Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry.

Islamabad, July 18 : At least 16 people were killed and several others were injured in twin blasts in Islamabad at the venue of lawyers' rally, which was to be addressed by the suspended Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry.

Sixty-seven persons were rushed to Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), among them 13 were confirmed to have died.

The deceased have been identified as Tariq Abbasi, Asma, Ismat Jabeen, Tariq Masih, Shamshad, Rashida Baigam and Shakilah.

According to reports, 54 injured are undergoing treatment at PIMS. The condition of seven is stated to be critical.

Eight injured have been admitted to another Islamabad Hospital, Poly Clinic. According to hospital spokesman, the death of three persons has been confirmed, and other three are said to be unstable.

Most of the persons (deceased and injured) belong to Pakistan People's Party (PPP), The News reported.

President Pervez Musharraf strongly condemned the "terrorist attack" and appealed for calm.

Justice Chaudhry convoy was 20 minutes away from the spot when the explosion occurred. However, he arrived at the site later and prayed for the victims.

The meeting was arranged at the premises of Islamabad Bar Council.

Hundreds of people had gathered at the District Court building for Justice Chaudhry's address, who was on his way when the blasts took place.

President Musharraf suspended Justice Chaudhry on March 9 after drawing up a set of charges against him.

The suspension of Justice Chaudhry sparked nation wide protests by lawyers who demanded independence of the judiciary and establishment of the rule of law.

ANI