PM forms task force to combat propaganda

ISLAMABAD:

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered the formation of a Joint Task Force (JTF) to investigate and counter "a malicious campaign aimed at discrediting" Pakistan and its state institutions, especially security forces.

The 10-member task force will be led by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) chairman.

The decision comes in the wake of a series of terrorist and destructive activities, followed by a widespread smear campaign using local and international media platforms.

The campaign involves disseminating baseless and provocative news, designed to portray state institutions as human rights violators.

According to sources, the campaign aims to destabilise law and order, exacerbate provincial and ethnic divisions, and achieve specific political objectives.

To sway foreign audiences, the perpetrators have reportedly used fabricated, violent images and content to depict severe human rights violations.

The 10-member team will include high-ranking officials from key government departments and security agencies. These include the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the Cyber Crime Wing of the FIA, and representatives from intelligence agencies such as ISI and MI, alongside other officials with expertise in communication and law enforcement.

The prime minister has directed the JTF to submit its findings within 10 days and to ensure swift action against those implicated.

A senior government official, commenting on the initiative, stated that the state will use all available resources to safeguard its institutions and restore public confidence.

"This campaign is not just an attack on the state but also a calculated move to mislead the world and foster discord within our borders. The government is committed to ensuring that such malicious efforts do not succeed," the official said.