ISLAMABAD – Interior Minister Ch. Nisar Ali Khan has said that today’s developments are the victory of peace, democracy, rule of law and trust in institutions.
Addressing a news conference in Islamabad this evening, he said these are neither victory nor defeat of anyone.
He welcomed Imran Khan’s reaction to the Supreme Court proceedings and directions and said politicians behave like this.
The Minister regretted that residents of the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, as well as people in some areas of Punjab and KPK, had to face difficulties due to political tension.
Referring to the PTI’s complaints that the Government created hurdles in the way of its plan for the sit-in, the Interior Minister said the government gave free hand to PTI to hold public meetings at F-9 Park.
However, the Government had to take measures when you declared your intention to lock down the Federal Capital.
The Interior Minister said the Federal Government blocked the way of KPK Government that was using official resources against the Federation.
He said the blockade was not directed against Pakhtoons as similar measures were taken in some parts of Punjab as well.
Ch. Nisar Ali Khan also reminded that PTI is not the only party representing Pakhtoons as people of the province have also been reposing trust in ANP, JUI (F), and PML (N).
He said as against misuse of official resources like cranes, lifters and masks by the KPK Government, the Federal Government disarmed the police and allowed them to use only tear gas to disperse the crowd.
The Interior Minister spoke high of Islamabad and Punjab Police for ensuring rule of law and establishing the writ of the state.
He also acknowledged the positive role of Islamabad High Court and Lahore High Court for ensuring rule of law and supremacy of the constitution.
Ch. Nisar Ali Khan said the Prime Minister had asked the Supreme Court four months back to formulate its own TORs for investigations into Panama Papers. He said today’s decision should have been taken four months back.
To a question, he said that three intelligence agencies and three other members are chosen by consensus will investigate the matter of news leaks in a transparent way.
Answering a question, he said that the FC is playing a vital role for the defence of the country and maintaining law and order situation in the country.
He said fifty percent increase in pay of FC personnel will be made from next month and fifty percent in the subsequent months to bring them equivalent to the pay of the Islamabad police. He said the retirement age of FC personnel is also being enhanced up to 45 years.
He said similarly the scales of Islamabad Police are also being upgraded. He said the scale of constables will be elevated from 5 to 7, Head constables from 7 to 9 and ASIs from 9 to 11. He said it will cost 540 million rupees and Prime Minister has given approval in this regard.
