Ishaq Dar rejects allegations of state brutality, calls claims of gunshot wounds “malicious”

ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has strongly denied accusations of state brutality and unwarranted violence by law enforcement authorities during recent clashes with protestors. In a statement released on Saturday, Dar labeled claims of gunshot wounds and indiscriminate firing as “malicious” and “absolutely false.”

The Deputy Prime Minister urged those making such allegations to provide concrete evidence, such as “graves and dead bodies,” to support their claims. He emphasized that the protestors involved were armed with heavy ammunition and tear gas canisters, and their intention was to create chaos, not peaceful demonstration.

Dar further stated that the security and law enforcement agencies displayed maximum restraint and patience, despite suffering casualties within their ranks. He criticized the leadership of the opposition PTI (Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf), accusing them of abandoning their workers and instead promoting a false narrative of state brutality.

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The remarks come in response to growing reports of violence during recent protests, with some groups claiming the use of excessive force by security personnel. Dar’s statement reflects the government’s stance that the law enforcement actions were necessary to restore order and prevent further escalation.