On Monday, Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), reiterated the military’s unwavering stance regarding the violent protests that took place on May 9. Speaking at a press conference focused on Pakistan’s security situation and anti-terrorism measures, he emphasized that those responsible for the riots must face the consequences of their actions.
“The Army’s position on [May 9] is clear, as stated in the May 7 press conference. There has been no change, nor will there be,” Lt Gen Chaudhry asserted. On May 7, 2024, the DG ISPR had explicitly mentioned that any dialogue with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party could only occur if it publicly apologized to the nation. He stated, “No talks will be held with any political leader or group that attacks its own army and engages in propaganda against it.”
He continued, “There can be no dialogue with an anarchist group. The only way forward for the anarchists is to apologize sincerely, abandon the politics of hate, and engage in constructive politics instead.”
During the press briefing, Lt Gen Chaudhry highlighted the extensive efforts of Pakistani security forces and law enforcement agencies in combating terrorism. He revealed that a total of 23,622 small and large-scale intelligence-based operations were conducted across the country this year. Of these, 2,045 operations took place in the last 15 days alone, resulting in the elimination of 24 terrorists.
The DG ISPR also announced that the Government of Pakistan has officially designated the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) as “Fitna al-Khawarij,” a term that will be used to describe the group and its associated terrorists, who will be termed “Kharji” (outcasts).
Lt Gen Chaudhry paid tribute to the 139 soldiers of the Pakistani security forces who have embraced martyrdom in the first seven months of 2024. He acknowledged their sacrifice and dedication to protecting the nation.
Highlighting the military’s contributions to education, Lt Gen Chaudhry shared that the Pakistan Army is providing digital education to youth and operating 92 schools in Balochistan, with over 19,000 students receiving education. Additionally, the army has established 171 schools and three cadet colleges in Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir. These efforts underscore the military’s commitment to fostering education and development in these regions.
On the occasion of Youm-e-Istehsal-e-Kashmir, Lt Gen Chaudhry reiterated the Pakistan Army’s unwavering support for the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). He condemned the inhuman lockdown, illegal demographic changes, and human rights violations in the region. He stressed the need to resolve the Kashmir issue in accordance with UN resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people to bring lasting peace to the region.
The DG ISPR’s address underscored the military’s commitment to maintaining security and stability in Pakistan while supporting national development through educational initiatives. He reiterated that the actions taken on May 9 were unacceptable and that those responsible would be held accountable.
The designation of the TTP as “Fitna al-Khawarij” signifies a clear stance against terrorism and a commitment to eradicating extremist threats from the country. The tribute to fallen soldiers serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by security forces in their ongoing efforts to protect the nation.
