Tarar calls out propaganda by Indian media over Jaffar Express attack

Information minister also criticises PTI for aligning with Indian media and BLA, urging focus on verified information.

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Information Minister Attaullah Tarar expressed gratitude to Allah for the successful conclusion of the operation in Balochistan, which resulted in the elimination of 33 terrorists involved in the Jaffar Express hijacking.

Speaking on the tragic incident on Wednesday, Tarar said that the operation had been carried out effectively, saving the lives of innocent civilians held hostage by the militants. He maintained that, prior to the operation, 21 lives were lost, including the martyrdom of four soldiers of the Pakistan Army.

However, during the operation, the security forces, including the Pakistan Army, Frontier Corps, Special Services Group (SSG), and Air Force, showed great bravery and successfully rescued the 440 passengers from the hijacked train, transferring them to a safe location.

Tarar also condemned the propaganda surrounding the incident, particularly from Indian media, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). He accused these entities of spreading a coordinated narrative regarding the attack, suggesting that they were trying to exploit the tragedy for their own political gain.

He further criticised PTI for aligning with Indian media and BLA, emphasising that they should have instead focused on verified information related to the operation. Tarar stated that PTI should feel ashamed for creating a false narrative and politicising the issue.

The information minister also highlighted that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had praised the capabilities of Pakistan's security forces in executing the successful operation.

He reiterated that Pakistan would not rest until terrorism is eradicated from the country, and he stressed the government's commitment to ensuring that such incidents do not occur again.

He assured that Pakistan's armed forces, security agencies, police, and Rangers remain vigilant and will continue to pursue and apprehend terrorists. Tarar emphasised the unyielding resolve of the PM, the government, and the Pakistan Army to root out terrorism and restore peace in the country.

Regarding the BLA, Tarar stated that the terrorist group's plot had been exposed and thwarted, and they would not succeed in their nefarious goals. He further asserted that the nation was prepared to face any challenges with courage and determination.

The information minister concluded by mentioning that PM Shehbaz had spoken to the chief minister of Balochistan and would visit the province the following day to discuss the details and outline the next steps in addressing the aftermath of the attack.