The Pakistan Army issued a stern warning on Monday, cautioning that if the judicial system fails to hold the planners and facilitators of the May 9 incidents accountable, the nation could face widespread anarchy and mob mentality, detrimental to the state of Pakistan.
During a press conference at the General Headquarters (GHQ), Director General Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry emphasized the responsibility of provincial governments in managing protests and preventing violence. "It is the responsibility of the provincial governments to take action if some miscreants join a protest and beat people," he stated.
Lt Gen Chaudhry condemned the spread of false and vulgar news against military leadership on social media, asserting that unchecked digital terrorism only emboldens perpetrators. "If you give the bully more space, it will attack you more," he warned, highlighting the lack of punitive measures against those propagating such narratives.
Addressing criticism of the Azm-e-Istehkam operation, he clarified that the initiative aims to fulfill the revised National Action Plan (NAP) objectives, not to launch a military offensive. He pointed out a strong illegal and political lobby opposing the operation due to vested interests.
The revised NAP focuses on criminal justice reforms and anti-terrorism measures. Lt Gen Chaudhry noted the scarcity of Anti-Terrorism Courts (ATCs) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Balochistan, underscoring the need for more convictions to combat the terror-crime nexus.
He also highlighted the economic impact of illegal activities, including non-customs paid vehicles and benami properties, stressing the importance of regularizing these sectors. "Movement across the Pak-Afghan border without legal documents also promoted this illegal spectrum," he added.
The DG ISPR reiterated the need for comprehensive implementation of the revised NAP to curb terrorism and uplift society. He urged the nation to support the military's efforts against both physical and digital terrorism.
In response to a query about the TLP's recent sit-in, he reaffirmed the state's and army's clear stance on the Palestine issue, condemning it as genocide and unacceptable.
Lt Gen Chaudhry concluded by emphasizing the army's dedication to national security and the importance of public support in combating terrorism and ensuring stability.
