Security matters: PTI demands extension in Rangers’ powers

Leaders say operation should not be limited to Karachi

KARACHI: After moving a resolution in the Sindh Assembly on Wednesday for the extension in Rangers' policing powers, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has once again demanded immediate powers for the paramilitary force in the province.

This demand was announced at a press conference on Thursday by PTI leaders Arif Alvi, Imran Ismail and Khurram Sher Zaman at Insaf House.

Speaking about the increasing crime and terrorism rate in the city, Alvi said that the recent targeted killing of army personnel could have been prevented if the Rangers were in power. He also said that Rangers powers should not be restricted to Karachi only; and insisted that the ongoing operation against crime and terrorism should be expanded to the entire province so that law enforcement agencies can trace fleeing suspects in other parts of the province. He also said that extending the Rangers' powers will allow citizens of other cities of Sindh to feel secure.

Problems in the city's security began after the police was politicised, he claimed. According to him, if we are able to de-politicise the police department, then we will be able to achieve peace in the city.

Alvi also welcomed the change of chief minister in the province and said that it is a good sign that the province will be led by new CM instead of a conventional one.

LG powers

The PTI leaders condemned the delay in the devolution of powers to the local body representatives. Alvi said the lack of powers is creating frustration among the voters, as they had high expectations from their local body representatives.

He said it has been 96 months since the Pakistan People's Party has been ruling in the province but they have failed to bring a change in Sindh. The PTI leader vowed that if his party gets the chance to rule the province, they will make Sindh corruption-free and make it an example for the rest of the country.

They would also root out corruption from the quota system and will run their government with meritocracy, he claimed.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 29^th, 2016.