LAHORE: Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar on Sunday strongly condemned what he described as attempts to undermine the dignity of the state and politicize the sacrifices of Pakistan’s martyrs, saying such actions were unacceptable and would not go unanswered.
Addressing a ceremony in Lahore, Tarar said those who sought to defame Pakistan or damage its reputation for political purposes had historically faced failure and public rejection. He maintained that individuals making controversial remarks about the country’s martyrs and state institutions should be held accountable and offer an apology to the nation as well as the families of fallen soldiers.
The minister expressed concern over what he called a growing trend of making insensitive comments about martyrs without understanding the sacrifices made by military personnel and their families.
“You should ask the children and families of martyrs what it means when mothers pray for the martyrdom of their sons before sending them to serve the country,” Tarar said. “Such sacrifices cannot be measured or compensated.”
He stressed that the respect and honor of the state must not be compromised for political gains, describing any attempt to do so as unacceptable.
Referring to recent controversial remarks by Noreen Niazi, sister of former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, Tarar alleged that her comments were intended to attract attention from Indian media and provide material for narratives against Pakistan.
He said there would be no leniency for anyone found attempting to use anti-state narratives for political purposes.
The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding the dignity of national institutions and honoring the sacrifices made by Pakistan’s martyrs and their families.
