DG ISPR Delivers Remarkable, Elaborate, and Clear Press Briefing
(Written By: Abdul Basit Alvi)
The current Director General of ISPR, Major General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, continues the tradition of effective communication with the public. His recent press briefing in Rawalpindi was comprehensive and detailed, addressing multiple issues openly and clearly. He emphasized Pakistan’s significant role in combating terrorism in the region and reiterated the nation’s commitment to eliminating terrorist networks entirely. He mentioned that the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is operating from Afghan territory, and recent terrorism incidents have links to Afghanistan. Pakistan has extended assistance to the interim government of Afghanistan at various levels, but the promises made by the Afghan interim government have not been fulfilled yet.
There is solid evidence indicating that TTP militants are utilizing Afghan soil for their activities. Major General Ahmed Sharif emphasized that the Pakistan Army’s foremost priority is to establish peace and order within the country. They are committed to taking all necessary measures to suppress terrorists and their supporters, underscoring Pakistan’s relentless fight against terrorism and its successful eradication efforts. Despite the return of over 563,000 Afghan citizens, millions still reside in Pakistan. Terrorists are disrupting the peace, but Pakistan’s forces stand resolute against them. The spokesperson for the Pakistan Army reported the martyrdom of soldiers in a terrorist attack on a checkpoint in North Waziristan. The thwarted terrorist attempts serve as evidence of the security forces’ effectiveness in foiling the enemy’s plans. A tragic incident occurred on March 26: the Dasu Dam attack, orchestrated from Afghanistan. The suicide bomber involved was of Afghan origin, and recent attackers also hold Afghan citizenship. Efforts are underway to apprehend these terrorists, as affirmed by statements from the Army Chief in Pakistan, who reiterated that there is no place for terrorists.
Addressing inquiries regarding the tragedy of May 9, Major General Ahmed Sharif asserted that May 9 is not solely an issue concerning the Pakistan Army but pertains to the entire populace of Pakistan. He highlighted how certain individuals disrespected the Pakistan founder’s residence, desecrated memorials of martyrs, vandalized military and civilian infrastructure, and endeavored to sow discord among the people against the army. He questioned why these individuals should not be held accountable. Such actions, if occurring in any country, would prompt scrutiny of the justice system.
The Director General of ISPR emphasized that if a particular group persists in such actions, eventually they will turn against their own army. He warned against the propagation of falsehoods, underscoring the reality of the events of May 9: a political faction transgressed boundaries, targeting its own army and institutions. Nevertheless, the conscientious citizens of Pakistan rose against this faction, demonstrating their disapproval. They distanced themselves from this anarchic group, disavowed and condemned it. When the group witnessed the public backlash, they resorted to a second deception, alleging a false flag operation, claiming victimhood themselves. It is unacceptable to presume that the populace is so easily misled. If those responsible for the events of May 9 are not held accountable according to the law, then nobody’s life, property, or reputation will be secure, undermining faith in justice. Hence, it is imperative to swiftly and justly punish the perpetrators of May 9 in accordance with the law and the constitution.
Major General Ahmed Sharif reiterated that the Pakistan Army is a national institution, comprising individuals from diverse backgrounds and devoid of political affiliations. Operating within a parliamentary democratic framework, every government maintains a non-political yet constitutional relationship with the army. All political ideologies, parties, and leaders are respected. However, any political entity that attacks the army, incites hatred, disparages national martyrs, or propagates against the army will find itself isolated. Major General Sharif emphasized the need for such political entities to engage in constructive politics rather than inciting hatred, as dialogue enhances the credibility of political parties and institutions.
Regarding the incursions into Islamabad by provincial resources from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Major General Sharif cautioned that if a certain political group continues such actions under the guise of immunity, they may eventually provoke a response from the army. He underscored the transparent self-accountability process within the Pakistan Army, which has completed its investigation into the events of May 9.
He further stressed the importance of adhering to the system of punishment and law in Pakistan. Those responsible for the events of May 9 must be held accountable according to the constitution. The incident was witnessed by all, revealing how minds were manipulated and sentiments turned against the armed forces, their leaders, agencies, and institutions. The selective targeting of military installations by some political leaders was evident. When these facts emerged, the public reacted with anger, distancing themselves from the anarchic group. Any notion of a false flag operation propagated thereafter is baseless.
The spokesperson for the Pakistan Army said that the formation of a judicial commission was suggested to investigate the matter. He emphasized the readiness of their cooperation with the commission, provided it delves deeply into the core issues. The commission should investigate the underlying objectives of the 2014 sit-in, encompassing the attack on PTV and the incitement of civil disobedience, such as the encouragement to burn electricity bills. It should also examine the involvement of provincial resources from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in the 2016 storming of the capital.
Additionally, the judicial commission should scrutinize the circumstances surrounding the drafting of IMF Letters, including any lobbying efforts aimed at pushing Pakistan towards bankruptcy and withholding financial aid. It is crucial for the commission to investigate the sources and destinations of funding, as well as identify individuals responsible for spreading anti-institutional sentiments on social media.
Failure to address these matters would render the events of May 9th inevitable. Indeed, in any society, the foundation of stability rests upon the rule of law, ensuring justice prevails and order is upheld. At the core of this principle lies the accountability of individuals who challenge the integrity, security, and sovereignty of the state. Globally, nations face the task of addressing anti-state elements—individuals or groups posing a threat to societal fabric and citizen well-being.
This challenge is particularly pronounced in Pakistan, where the imperative to confront and penalize such elements remains urgent. The term “anti-state elements” encompasses a diverse array of actors, spanning from violent extremists and insurgents to foreign agents and subversive entities. Often, these individuals or groups espouse ideologies contrary to state values, seeking to sow discord, incite violence, or undermine governmental authority.
Their actions not only jeopardize the lives and livelihoods of innocent civilians but also pose a direct menace to national security and stability. Indeed, the nation fervently demands the strict punishment of those involved in the events of May 9th. DG ISPR, stated that the Pakistan Army, along with its subsidiaries, contributed a total of 360 billion rupees in taxes. He highlighted the active role of the armed forces in supporting government initiatives aimed at bolstering the country’s economy. Major General Sharif emphasized that the army, in collaboration with other institutions, is actively participating in SIFC, resulting in successful crackdowns on smuggling, electricity theft, and drug trafficking, which have yielded positive outcomes for Pakistan.
In September, a comprehensive crackdown was conducted in Rawalpindi to address various issues, including smuggling, electricity theft, narcotics trade, and hoarding. The operation led to the recovery of significant quantities of goods, including 3,036.309 metric tons of fertilizer, 262.8 metric tons of wheat, 34,060.9 metric tons of sugar, and 232,420 cigarette stocks, amounting to a total of Rs91.231 billion. Furthermore, 69,537 individuals have been apprehended in connection with these illicit activities. Additionally, law enforcement seized 1,028,904.9 kilograms of goods, resulting in the arrest of 1,352 individuals.
Addressing the issue of missing persons, the Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) stated that 80% of cases have been addressed by the Commission of Missing Persons. The phenomenon of missing persons is not unique to Pakistan; it is a global concern, even in developed countries. The matter is legally intricate, and the government is earnestly striving to resolve it.
Regarding the question of providing bases to other countries, the DG ISPR affirmed that Pakistan has not and will not grant bases to any foreign entity. The country is vigilant against illicit activities such as drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and terrorist infiltration under the guise of trade. Pakistan has never politicized trade with Afghanistan and hosts a significant Afghan population.
He also provided financial figures regarding the contributions of the Pakistan Army to the national treasury. In the last fiscal year, the Pakistan Army directly contributed 100 billion rupees, while its subsidiaries paid 260 billion rupees in taxes and duties. Additionally, the Army Foundation, DHS, NLC, and Army Welfare Trust deposited significant amounts in taxes—223 billion rupees, 23 billion rupees, 3 billion rupees, and 3 billion rupees, respectively. The recovery endeavors also encompass 27,514.8 metric tons of fertilizer, 2,428.03 metric tons of wheat, 10,180.2 metric tons of sugar, and 55,745.3 metric tons of other stocks.
“Pakistan was cognizant of India’s efforts to divert attention from its internal affairs.” Throughout the current year, India has violated ceasefire agreements on numerous occasions, including 120 speculative fire incidents, 115 aerial posture surveillance system (APS) violations, and 59 technical air violations. These breaches of ceasefire have resulted in loss of life. “We stand prepared to safeguard our sovereignty at any cost.” In December 2023, the Indian armed forces targeted civilians in Poonch and Rajwadi, leading to the unlawful detention of Kashmiris and leaving three individuals in critical condition.
Additionally, Kashmiris have been martyred in what he termed “illegal operations.” There have been allegations of electoral vote manipulation in India, with plans to hold elections for five parliament seats on five different days, raising concerns about the fairness and transparency of the electoral process. The Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR) also expressed apprehensions regarding the Indian Supreme Court’s decision to revoke Article 370, which granted special status to occupied Kashmir under the Indian constitution.
“Apart from Kashmir, the Indian government has been implicated in international killings, including the murder of Sikh nationals,” he stated, adding that Indian intelligence agencies were responsible for the deaths of two Pakistani nationals, supported by ample evidence. He also addressed the situation in Palestine, stating that Pakistan has emerged as a significant voice globally and will continue to support the Palestinian cause. “We must play our part in advancing Pakistan’s prosperity and progress. Pakistan has persistently waged and will continue the fight against terrorism,” the DG ISPR asserted, affirming that all available resources are being utilized for this purpose. “Our unity is our strength, and we remain united.”
The press briefing served as a platform for the DG ISPR to reiterate Pakistan’s dedication to peace, security, and regional stability. By spotlighting the armed forces’ endeavors in safeguarding national borders, combating terrorism, addressing internal challenges, and fostering regional collaboration, the DG ISPR conveyed a message of fortitude, resilience, and resolve. Such reassurance is pivotal in fostering public confidence and fortifying national solidarity amidst external pressures. The detailed, coherent, and comprehensive nature of the press conference resonated with the sentiments of the Pakistani populace, signaling a promising outlook for the nation’s future.
