Federal Minister for Data and Broadcasting Atta Tarar accused Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) of orchestrating the recent incident in Bannu on Wednesday. PTI workers are known for creating chaos and disorder wherever they go, often resorting to violence, he said during a press conference. The PTI’s approach is to provoke violence in politics and then blame security forces for the resulting anarchy, he added.
Claims of PTI’s Role in Violence
The minister said Imran Khan’s party has a history of creating lawlessness and attributing it to others. He claimed that what happened in Bannu — where armed men opened fire on a peace march — was part of their plan. “They are not a political party but terrorists who use such incidents for political purposes,” he alleged while accusing them of trying to shift blame from themselves onto government institutions and security agencies after every tragedy.
Response to the Bannu Incident
Tarar criticized PTI over its role in the Bannu incident, which he said was aimed at tarnishing the image of state institutions, including the government and security forces. “Their people were involved, he maintained, adding that they wanted to take advantage of it. The defense minister also pointed out that blaming the military for civilian casualties is part of PTI’s strategy designed to weaken federal authority.
Response to Attack on Pakistani Consulate
Talking about the attack on the Pakistan Consulate General Frankfurt Germany. Atta Tarar informed media persons that the Foreign Office had registered a protest with German authorities. There has been no reaction yet from their side in this regard. At least four rockets fired by unknown attackers hit the outside gate of one consulate, causing damage to some buildings nearby but killing no one inside, according to an official statement released here this evening. He emphasized that any Pakistani citizens involved in the attack would face strict penalties, including the blocking of their national identification cards and the cancellation of their passports.
Internet and Data Security
Addressing concerns about internet access, Tarar clarified that recent disruptions are unrelated to the government’s actions. He emphasized that firewall installations are meant for cyber and data security and do not interfere with freedom of expression.
Conditions of PTI Founder in Jail
Tarar also refuted claims that PTI founder Imran Khan is being held in harsh conditions. He stated that Khan is being detained in comfortable accommodations at Adiala Jail. Equipped with a gym, kitchen, walking gallery, and access to luxurious meals. Tarar contrasted this with the treatment of the Sharif family, who were previously held under more severe conditions.
Journalists’ Insurance Scheme
In a separate announcement, Tarar highlighted a new journalists’ insurance scheme. Stating that 30,000 journalists will benefit from it this year. He condemned recent police actions during a Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) meeting in Gujranwala. Asserting that the incident was inappropriate and should be investigated.
Atta Tarar’s statements reflect his position on PTI tactics and the government’s efforts to address recent controversies. His comments on the Bannu incident and the Frankfurt consulate attack. Internet security underscores the administration’s stance on political violence, foreign relations, and data protection. The emphasis on journalists’ welfare and Imran Khan’s detention conditions highlight ongoing issues within Pakistan’s political and media landscapes.
