Interior Minister Criticizes PTM Ahead of Pashtoon Qaumi Jirga
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi criticized the recently banned Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM) for its rhetoric before the three-day Pashtoon Qaumi Jirga in Khyber district. He emphasized the government’s willingness to engage in discussions on rights-related issues if conducted appropriately.
The federal government imposed a ban on the PTM citing threats to national peace and security. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government also prohibited officials from engaging with the jirga organized by the PTM. Despite these measures, activists gathered for the jirga in defiance of the government’s orders.
Naqvi clarified that the government was against the promotion of ethnic division and the formation of a parallel judicial system. He highlighted the importance of discussing rights in a constructive manner and expressed readiness for dialogue on human rights issues.
The Peshawar High Court recently restrained the PTM from holding the jirga on disputed land, directing law enforcement agencies to ensure law and order. The court adjourned the case till October 15.
Overall, Naqvi emphasized the government’s stance against promoting discord and reiterated the need for constructive dialogue on rights issues.