Ahsan Iqbal blames fake news to misguide youth

NAROWAL:

Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal stressed the need to eliminate hatred and said that today, more than ever, there was a need for unity among all of us.

Addressing a ceremony in Narowal, the minister regretted that the younger generation has been taught to turn differences into enmity, which is regrettable.

He criticised the PTI leadership as incompetent and accused them of ruining the country. He said that misinformation was spread through social media, posing a serious threat. He expressed regret that misinformation and fake news are being used to mislead the youth.

Taking a swipe at the former premier's past allegations against rivals, Iqbal said that PTI founder Imran Khan has become an example himself as he sits behind bars.

He said he had shared a message on social media, "Imran Khan has called me a thief. If I plundered the country, may Allah make an example of me; and if the charge is false, may Allah make an example of Imran".

"I am sure Imran is languishing in Adiala Jail because he has been made an example of as he used to level false allegations."

Iqbal also asked PTI workers whether Imran Khan had built a university, hospital, motorway or any other project during his four years as prime minister.

PTI founder Imran Khan was first arrested in May 2023 in relation to allegations that his wife, Bushra Bibi, and he received land worth up to Rs7 billion as a bribe through a trust created in 2018, while he still held office.

The PTI founder is facing anti-terrorism charges in connection with the violence that followed his arrest in May last year, and in relation to which several of his supporters have already been sentenced.

The minister said that government is taking significant steps in the education sector. He said that education and research play a vital role in the progress of nations. He emphasized that national development requires a strong focus on education.

He said that the University of Narowal is an important institution for promoting education and added that the government is providing employment opportunities to the youth by equipping them with education and skills.