Maryam stresses unity in hour of grief

LAHORE:

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif directed the police and district administration on Sunday to understand the sentiments of protesters in the prevailing situation and to treat them with dignity and respect.

She stated in a social media message that arrangements were being made for iftar for the protesters.

The chief minister said every Muslim was grieved and tearful, but maintaining peace and order in the country and the cities was a collective responsibility.

She appeals to all concerned to uphold their duty of ensuring law and order.

"In this hour of grief, we stand united," she added.

Meanwhile, in her message on World Civil Defence Day, the chief minister emphasised that revival and strengthening of the institution was the need of the hour.

Provincial Information Minister Azma Bukhari termed the attack on Iran and the martyrdom of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei "deeply tragic", saying Pakistan had extended diplomatic and moral support to Tehran and had condemned the aggression at the United Nations.

She urged religious parties and citizens to remain peaceful, warning that violent protests or taking the law into one's hands would serve hostile elements.

"If we turn our grief into unrest within our own country, it will benefit the enemy," she said, appealing to the public to exercise restraint, keep protests peaceful and avoid any damage to life or property.