Aug 14 Tsunami march: Imran’s protest can invite act of terror, says minister

Pervaiz Rashid says house arrest of PAT, PTI leaders can be considered, if needed.


Our Correspondent July 13, 2014

LAHORE:


Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Senator Pervaiz Rashid has asked PTI Chairman Imran Khan to avoid a street protest on August 14 as this ‘may invite a terrorist act’.


Speaking with the media on Saturday, Senator Rashid said the PTI should not mar Independence Day celebrations particularly at a time when the armed forces are engaged in a crucial operation. Given the situation, road protests can be dangerous and allow terrorists ‘to execute their nefarious plans’, he said. He added that Independence Day celebrations would be held at D-Chowk and politicians from all parties would be invited.

He urged the PTI leadership to shun the politics of protest. When asked if there is any plan in the pipeline to put Imran Khan and Dr Tahirul Qadri under house arrest on August 14, he said it is too early to say so and this option will be considered as needed. However, he warned that the law will take its course against anyone attempting to break it. When asked if the army would be called in to ensure security, he said the army has a peacekeeping role in the country in terms of Article 245 of the Constitution.

The minister said that those trying to create misunderstandings about the army would not succeed. Criticising the army means strengthening the terrorists, which is not acceptable, he said.

Discussing the ongoing treason trial of Pervez Musharraf, he said the courts would decide the retired general’s fate. Referring to a statement by former PM Yousaf Raza Gilani that the PML-N is privy to a deal to allow Musharraf safe exit from Pakistan, he said the party had not sent the former president to jail nor had it discussed the case with the establishment.

Discussing the Protection of Pakistan Ordinance, he said all parties were consulted on the bill. He defended the PM, saying he met Opposition Leader Syed Khursheed Shah, Mehmood Khan Achakzai, and Maulana Fazlur Rahman. “If the need arises, he will meet with other politicians as well,” he said.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 13th, 2014.

COMMENTS (5)

muhammad naseer | 9 years ago | Reply

Are one month celebrations justified by the govt on 14 aug onwards.

muhammad naseer | 9 years ago | Reply

Are one month celebrations justified by the govt fron 14aug onwards

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