ISLAMABAD: Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry has condemned the decision by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister to return bulletproof vehicles supplied by the federal government, describing the move as “immature” and “reckless,” particularly amid ongoing counterterrorism operations.
In a public statement, Talal Chaudhry pointed out that the federal government has allocated approximately Rs 600 billion to KP for strengthening its Civil Armed Forces, Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), and forensic laboratories. He questioned the lack of transparency regarding the utilization of these funds, asserting, “There has been no clear account of how this substantial amount has been spent so far.”
He emphasized that the bulletproof vehicles were provided in accordance with international safety standards to bolster the security of law enforcement personnel. “These vehicles are actively used by federal ministers and senior officials in regions affected by terrorism, with no reported incidents of casualties during their deployment,” he added.
Chaudhry accused the provincial administration of undermining the safety of police officers and soldiers. “KP’s brave law enforcement personnel are being left exposed to terrorist threats. They lack adequate political backing, proper weaponry, and necessary training,” he stated.
He reaffirmed that the federal government had supplied the vehicles, bulletproof gear, binoculars, and weapons as part of a broader effort to enhance the counterterrorism capacity of KP. “The federal government remains committed to supporting KP in its fight against terrorism,” he said, criticizing what he termed as “childish politics and immature decisions” by the provincial government that hinder national security initiatives.
Furthermore, Chaudhry highlighted that the provision of these resources was a recognition of the sacrifices made by KP’s police force, who are on the front lines of Pakistan’s ongoing battle against terrorism.
