Maryam Nawaz’s “Imagine!” Reply Sparks Debate on Online Threats

ISLAMABAD:_(Mudassar Iqbal/Social Media)-A social media post by a user identified as M. Zafran Gilgiti — calling for violence against the Prime Minister and Chief Minister of Punjab — has sparked intense public and legal attention after Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif reacted with a single-word response on X (formerly Twitter): “Imagine!”

The tweet, which invoked a violent reference, was widely condemned across political and public circles. Authorities acted swiftly, and Islamabad Police arrested the accused from his native Gilgit following a coordinated operation.

According to police sources, Zafran Gilgiti is associated with a social media group and was reportedly in a madrassa in Tarnol when the controversial post was published. He has been transferred to Islamabad and will be presented before Judge Tahir Abbas Sipra of the Special Court (Anti-Terrorism), Islamabad.

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Meanwhile, the suspect’s mother, overcome with grief, has made an emotional appeal to Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for forgiveness.

“My son is my only support and the father of orphaned children. He acted out of emotion — please forgive him,” she pleaded, urging for compassion and leniency.

The incident has reignited debate over responsible social media use and the legal boundaries of online speech. Analysts have termed it a serious reminder that freedom of expression must not cross into incitement or threats.

“This is a lesson for all social media users — think before you post. Online words can have real-world consequences,” commented a senior police official.

The Islamabad Police reiterated that strict action will be taken against those spreading hatred or threats online, emphasizing that the law protects both freedom of speech and public safety.