Islamabad: Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar has accused the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) of disseminating fake news and false propaganda to obscure its unsuccessful attempt to disrupt peace in the federal capital and undermine the national economy.

According to Radio Pakistan, Tarar addressed the media in Islamabad, stating that PTI is determined to pursue politics of violence to fulfill its political objectives. He refuted PTI’s allegations that law enforcement agencies opened fire on protesters, emphasizing that the officers were present to ensure peace and did not possess live ammunition.

Tarar further alleged that among the protesters were hardened criminals and trained individuals led by PTI leader Murad Saeed, who were responsible for the deaths of Pakistan Rangers and police officials. He labeled the protest as illegal, citing the Islamabad High Court’s lack of approval, and claimed the protest caused a daily economic loss of 192 billion rupees.

Tarar dismissed PTI’s claim
s of law enforcement using live ammunition, noting the absence of video evidence to support such allegations. He accused the protesters of opening indiscriminate fire on law enforcement officials, resulting in injuries to 192 officers, and stressed the government’s obligation to uphold the state’s authority and protect citizens’ lives and property.

He praised the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for rejecting calls for unrest and emphasized the ongoing identification and potential punishment of miscreants. Tarar reiterated the constitutional requirement for peaceful protests and mentioned a government report submitted to the Islamabad High Court.

In response to media-related inquiries, Tarar affirmed the government’s commitment to media independence and mentioned ongoing efforts to develop digital media legislation in collaboration with media organizations and stakeholders.

Interior Secretary Muhammad Khurram Agha also addressed the media, highlighting the Islamabad High Court’s directives to the federal gover
nment to maintain order and engage PTI leadership regarding the protest, which they were urged to postpone due to the Belarusian President’s visit. A video was presented during the conference, depicting PTI protesters attacking law enforcement with weapons, batons, stones, and slingshots.