ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Information, Atta Tarar, accused Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) of aligning with terrorism. He alleged that PTI’s leader continues to support terrorists even from jail. Tarar stated that the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has effectively become PTI’s military arm. These assertions were made during a media briefing in Islamabad. He also claimed that certain groups are attempting to destabilize Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and undermine peace efforts.
Tarar emphasized Pakistan’s unified stance against terrorism, citing operations such as Radd-ul-Fasaad and Zarb-e-Azb as pivotal in reducing violence nationwide. However, he expressed concerns over political parties allegedly sheltering terrorists for personal or political gain. He strongly criticized PTI, accusing it of facilitating the entry of terrorists into the region as part of a larger scheme. Furthermore, he blamed the party’s jailed leader for exploiting acts of violence and casualties for political purposes.
The minister also pointed to corruption within Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s government, alleging that timber and drug mafias are operating unchecked under its administration. He questioned why the provincial government had failed to act against illegal activities, including unregistered vehicles and criminal networks. According to Tarar, PTI’s inadequate governance allowed terrorist factions to strengthen their foothold. Additionally, he accused the party’s founder of supporting negotiations with the TTP on international platforms.
Tarar reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to eradicate terrorism entirely, declaring that no safe haven would be offered to militants within the country. He underscored the government’s zero-tolerance policy towards violence, stressing that peace would prevail only after all terrorist threats are eliminated. The minister assured citizens of the government’s unwavering commitment to protecting national security.
In his concluding remarks, Atta Tarar called on the nation to remain united in the fight against terrorism. He warned those harboring extremist elements that their actions would soon face consequences. His comments underline the growing rift between the government and PTI, reflecting the broader challenges Pakistan grapples with in its ongoing struggle to combat terrorism while maintaining stability across the nation.
