ISLAMABAD: Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar on Wednesday accused India of spreading a false and unfounded narrative against Pakistan in the aftermath of the Sydney incident, stating that allegations were made without evidence or proper verification.
Speaking at a press conference with foreign media, Tarar criticized the circulation of anti-Pakistan propaganda in connection with the incidents in Sydney and Bondi Beach, despite the lack of verified facts. He expressed regret over the spread of such claims, pointing out the disregard for journalistic standards.
The minister highlighted that shortly after the Sydney incident, Indian media outlets and social media accounts began accusing Pakistan, even though no official sources had confirmed any details at that point. He voiced disappointment that even reputable media organizations participated in what he described as a deliberate disinformation campaign.
According to Tarar, the Pakistani government swiftly condemned the Sydney incident, with both the President and the Prime Minister expressing profound sorrow over the tragedy at Bondi Beach. Despite these responses, several media entities ignored fundamental editorial principles and ethics in reporting, he remarked.
Referring to Australian authorities, Tarar stated that police investigations confirmed the accused in the Bondi Beach case were from Hyderabad in India’s Telangana state, which debunked the baseless allegations against Pakistan.
He emphasized the emotional significance of December 16 for Pakistan, marking the painful memory of the Army Public School (APS) tragedy where innocent children lost their lives. He described any attempt to associate Pakistan with terrorism on such a sensitive day as deeply hurtful.
Tarar accused a neighboring country of intentionally spreading misleading information and launching a malign campaign against Pakistan. He denounced what he termed as blatant propaganda and remarked that efforts to link Pakistan to the Sydney incident had crumbled even before investigations concluded.
The minister further disclosed that it had now been confirmed that the Sydney shooters were Indian nationals who had also traveled to the Philippines in November. He noted that these findings clarified their identities and origins.
Tarar commended Australian authorities for their measured and responsible handling of the Sydney incident, emphasizing that the truth came to light after factual investigations were completed.
