K-P's politicking continues on nation's darkest day

PTI highlights D Chowk violence; PPP questions implementation of National Action Plan

PESHAWAR:

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Minister for Law Aftab Alam stated that the tragic incident at APS on December 16, 2014, was an "unimaginable event" for the country and the province.

"Unfortunately, the dream for which this country was created has not been fulfilled, despite the sacrifices of many. The nation has not seen political, social, or economic stability, and a few powerful groups have marginalised the people, leading to dangerous consequences.

Speaking in the provincial assembly on Monday, the law minister said that parents of the APS victims are still asking for justice for their children.

Referring to recent political events, he claimed that the mandate given to Imran Khan on February 8 was blatantly stolen, and it was evident to the nation.

He criticised the violent suppression of peaceful protesters, stating that when legitimate questions about the use of force are raised, it offends those in power.

Highlighting the November 26 incident, he said that political workers were fired upon, and over a hundred remain missing.

"Workers detained in Punjab and Islamabad prisons face inhumane conditions, spending cold nights without proper clothing, and some have been falsely implicated in the May 9 incident.

Questions nobody could answer

Meanwhile. speeches by both government and opposition members revolved around the questions of "Why were shots fired?" and "Who brought armed groups into the province?" These questions were asked with particular reference to the Army Public School massacre which left 147 children dead in December 2014.

The opposition shed light on the background of these tragic events, demanding the formation of a reconciliation commission to investigate who settled armed groups in the province and bring them to justice. They argued that only through such accountability could the state transform into a welfare nation.

During Monday's session, PPP Parliamentary Leader Ahmad Kundi said, "Today is a historic and tragic day. The month of December has been particularly devastating in Pakistan's history.

"After the APS tragedy, the National Action Plan (NAP) was formulated, but more than ten years later, how much has it been implemented? What results have been achieved against armed groups? During wars, even children and women are spared," he said.

"Even today, the families of the APS martyrs remain in shock. A reconciliation commission must be formed to present a report on who brought these armed groups into the province. Implementing the NAP is the only way to rid ourselves of terrorism."

Earlier, ANP member Nisar Baz addressed the APS tragedy. "Hundreds of children were martyred. It was a profoundly sorrowful incident. Prayers should be offered for the martyrs in the assembly."