ISLAMABAD: National Security Committee (NSC) decided to kick start an all-out comprehensive operation against militant outfits to root out menace of terrorism from country.

Development came after two-hour-long NSC meeting comprising country’s top security body comprising civil and military leadership with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in chair, statement from PM’s Office said. Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Shamshad Mirza, ministers for defence, finance and information and senior military leadership were in attendance. Gathering was held in continuation with NSC meeting after terrorist attack on January 2, 2023, in Peshawar Police Lines, which claimed lives of more than 80 people, mainly law enforcers. “Meeting agreed to launch an all-out comprehensive operation with renewed vigour and determination with [help] of entire nation and government, which will rid country of menace of terrorism,” statement mentioned. This all-around and comprehensive operation to eliminate scourge of terrorism in all its forms from Pakistan will also include efforts at political, diplomatic, security, economic and social levels. High-level committee has also been formed in this regard and will make recommendations regarding implementation and limitations within two weeks, statement said. Meeting, according to statement, emphasised comprehensive national security in which relief of people was central. “Forum was informed that government was taking steps in this regard.” Meeting acknowledged sacrifices and efforts of security forces for providing peace to nation. Forum reiterated its commitment to continue its activities till terrorism is rooted out.

Committee termed recent spate of terrorism a result of soft corner for and reckless policy with Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan which was completely contrary to public expectations and aspirations.

Terrorists as result, were not only allowed to return without hindrance but dangerous TTP terrorists were also released from jails in name of confidence building, statement mentioned. As result of facilitation given by these dangerous returning terrorists and various militant organisations present in large numbers in Afghanistan, militants have disrupted peace and stability in country. Committee strongly condemned efforts to spread foreign-sponsored “poisonous propaganda” against state institutions and their leadership on social media under guise of “Ulterior motives” and said it affects national security. Reiterating determination to thwart nefarious intentions of enemies of country, committee said that all possible efforts would be made to maintain peace and order achieved by great sacrifices and continuous efforts of martyrs. In meeting, successful operation in which an intelligence agency arrested one of most wanted terrorists Gulzar Imam alias Shambay was greatly appreciated. BNA is responsible for dozens of violent terrorist attacks in Pakistan including attacks on law enforcement agencies in Panjgur and Noshki, according to military.

Published in The Daily National Courier, April, 08 2023

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