Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar on Thursday said that the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) had committed vandalism and arson in the guise of protest which is not acceptable at any cost.
Addressing the media, the minister questioned the TLP’s decision to resort to violence and property damage. “Does any organization have a right to come out on the street and damage public and private property when the whole world is celebrating peace in Gaza,” he asked.
The whole world witnessed the protests for peace in Palestine as thousands of people took to the streets in London, Italy and Australia in a peaceful manner, but in Pakistan, the TLP mobilized with guns, daggers and other ammunitions, said the minister who was flanked by Federal Minister for Interior Syed Mohsin Naqvi, State Minister for Interior Talal Chaudhry and Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf.
Atta Tarar said the TLP’s conduct exposed an orchestrated plan to disrupt law and order. Highlighting the tragic loss of lives, the minister asked what was the fault of the inspector who got martyred because of their firing.
“No religion or constitution allows the killing of police officials,” he said.
The minister said the TLP raised the slogans that demonstrate their love for the Holy Prophet (SAW), but their actions of killing the people negate the teachings of our Holy Prophet (SAW).
The minister said police officials also had families who prayed for their protection when they left their homes for discharge of official duties.
He cited the Jamat-e-Islami’s recent large-scale, yet peaceful, protests as an example of how citizens can exercise their constitutional right to protest. The constitution does not only grant the right to protest but also impose certain conditions for exercising this right.
The minister said it seemed that the TLP held the violent protests to impose their will because the Gaza peace is being celebrated worldwide.
He highlighted the government’s diplomatic efforts, stating that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif advocated for the Palestinians at every forum, including at a recent international gathering in Sharm el-Sheikh where Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas expressed gratitude to the PM and people of Pakistan for supporting Palestinian brothers and sisters in every way.
Tarar said the successful diplomatic efforts for peace were met with tears of joy from residents of Gaza, the West Bank, and Rafah as they celebrated the end of oppression.
Separately, Federal Minister Attaullah Tarar administered the oath to All Pakistan Newspapers and Electronic Media Employees Confederation’s (APNEC) newly elected Chairman Muhammad Siddique Anzar and other office-bearers, extending congratulations and affirming full support for safeguarding journalists’ rights.
Speaking at the oath taking ceremony, Tarar reiterated the government’s unwavering support for freedom of expression and responsible journalism.
He highlighted that the media and government share a collaborative relationship, not an adversarial one, and assured continued efforts to promote and strengthen journalism.
He extended his congratulations to the newly elected office-bearers and expressed confidence in their ability to effectively address the challenges facing the media industry and to elevate journalistic standards.
The Minister emphasized Pakistan’s notable achievements on the international stage, particularly its diplomatic efforts to foster peace between Israel and Palestine. He cited recent commendation from the President of the United States as a strong endorsement of the government’s performance and its growing influence in global affairs.
He also presented awards on behalf of the APNEC, acknowledging the remarkable accomplishments of journalists and distinguished personalities. The event wrapped up with a group photo capturing the Minister alongside the organization’s newly elected leadership.
Senator Talha Mahmood stated that India has consistently maintained a hostile posture toward Pakistan, with efforts aimed at destabilizing the country. He also voiced concern over the deteriorating security situation along the Afghan border.
Senator Talha Mahmood called upon the public to demonstrate unity, emphasizing that a united front would prevent adversaries from casting an evil eye on Pakistan. He asserted that through solidarity and collective resolve, the nation can effectively confront any threat posed by its enemies.
During the event, newly elected Chairman Siddique Anzar expressed gratitude to journalists and media workers nationwide for their enduring trust. He reaffirmed his dedication to championing the rights and well-being of journalists and media professionals.
The oath-taking ceremony for APNEC’s newly elected office bearers was held at the Information Services Academy in Islamabad. The event was graced by Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar, Chairman of the Senate Standing Committee on Defence Senator Muhammad Talha Mahmood, and Ambassador of Syria Dr. Ramez Alrace.
Also in attendance were Executive Director General of the Information Services Academy Umrana Wazir, Executive Director General/PIO Mobashir Hassan, Director Khawaja Muaz, Director Zobia, and Director of the Federal Housing Foundation Umar Sial.
Prominent media representatives included President PFUJ (Dastoor) Haji Muhammad Nawaz Raza, President PFUJ (Workers) Dr. Saadia Kamal, and Vice President PFUJ (Rana Azeem Group) Farhat Fatima. CEO of Nayab Lab Dr. Zaheeruddin Sheikh was also present, along with several distinguished political, social, and media personalities.