Countering terror: Ahsan urges comprehensive strategy to implement NAP

Says government will take steps to make NACTA more effective


Our Correspondent August 19, 2017
Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal. PHOTO: APP

ISLAMABAD: Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal on Friday directed the National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA) to ensure implementation of the National Action Plan (NAP) to counter the menace of terrorism in the country.

“NACTA should ensure implementation of the National Action Plan [NAP] and to [this effect] make a comprehensive strategy in collaboration with the federating units,” he said while paying a visit to NACTA office.

The directives from the new interior minister came amid criticism over NACTA’s non-seriousness regarding implementation of NAP.

Billions for counter-terrorism, nothing for Nacta

NACTA was established in 2009 with the aim of gathering intelligence reports from all agencies to devise and implement a counter-terrorism strategy. Its powers were enhanced through a parliamentary legislation in 2013.

On the occasion, National Coordinator Ihsan Ghani briefed the minister about the measures taken so far by the counter-terrorism authority for combating terrorism.

“NACTA has to play an important role in combating terrorism in the country,” said the interior minister, adding that NACTA should be made an excellent and exemplary institution, and the government would take steps to make it more effective.

NACTA forms timeframe to implement judicial reforms

Ahsan said the younger generation of the country “needs a solid narrative to avoid extremist ideology”. He stressed the need for making Pakistan a peaceful land for the coming generations.

“Winning [the] war against terrorism and restoring peace here is our mission. And to eliminate terrorism, the progress in the national economy is unavoidable,” he said.

He urged parents to keep an eye on their children, besides being vigilant about their neighbours.

He said the entire society should play its role in creating harmony in the country to achieve the desired results.

He ordered a code of conduct to be devised immediately with regard to collection of sacrificial hides.

COMMENTS

Replying to X

Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.

For more information, please see our Comments FAQ