Punjab’s Information Minister, Azma Bukhari, has issued a stern warning to those employing aggressive tactics in political opposition. She stated that anyone using “Taliban-like methods” will be treated like the Taliban. Speaking to the media, Bukhari emphasized that the government’s restraint should not be seen as incompetence but as an act of decency.
Accusations Against PTI
During her media address, Bukhari alleged that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has established a propaganda cell. This cell, according to her, is being used to insult and defame individuals. She called for stricter regulations and guidelines to control the misuse of social media platforms. This, she said, would help prevent harmful actions carried out under the guise of free speech.
Misuse of SIM Cards
Bukhari also revealed alarming information about the misuse of Subscriber Identity Modules (SIM cards). She claimed that 500 SIM cards were issued in the name of a woman, but are being used by her husband. These SIM cards are allegedly being used to blackmail and mistreat people. She added that such actions are intended to create unrest and rebellion.
The minister clarified that the government neither operates fake accounts nor intends to create any. This statement came amid increasing concerns about the role of social media and fake news in destabilizing political systems.
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Government’s Stance on PTI Protests
Bukhari’s remarks followed the Punjab government’s decision to impose Section 144, banning public gatherings across eight cities for three days. This move came in response to protests planned by the opposition party, PTI. The Information Minister criticized PTI’s leadership, accusing them of attempting to create chaos similar to the events that led to the creation of Bangladesh.
She further added that when the Prime Minister takes action, it is often labeled as a violation of freedom of speech. Bukhari stressed that these incidents are not coincidental but are the result of careful planning by the opposition.
Illegal SIM Cards Threaten National Security
Earlier, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) briefed the National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication regarding illegal SIMs. The PTA reported that around 732,000 illegal SIM cards were blocked from 2021 to the present. However, the committee, chaired by Ali Khan Jadoon, expressed dissatisfaction with the progress made.
Jadoon stated that the illegal use of SIMs posed a serious threat to national security. He directed both the PTA and NADRA chairmen to appear before the committee with a comprehensive action plan. The chairman said, “We want to end the issue of illegal SIMs as soon as possible, but the departments concerned are not cooperating with us.”
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Efforts to Combat Illegal SIMs
The PTA representatives informed the committee that they had introduced stringent measures to curb the issue of illegal SIMs. They assured the committee that the problem had been significantly reduced, though challenges remained. Despite these efforts, the committee continued to urge faster action, citing national security concerns.
In conclusion, Azma Bukhari’s statements reflect the government’s increasing frustration with political opposition and the misuse of technology for malicious purposes. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how both the government and regulatory authorities will tackle these pressing issues.
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