GHQ attack linked to India's anti-Pakistan objectives: Khawaja Asif

Sialkot: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Sunday said that legal action is being taken against those who attacked military installations.

He was addressing the participants of a rally in Sialkot that was taken out to express solidarity with the Pakistan Army.

He said armed forces have always rendered unprecedented sacrifices for the defence of the motherland.

The rally concluded at the martyrs’ memorial at Chawinda where tributes were offered to the martyrs.

According to Asif, the attack was part of India's anti-Pakistan agenda and was motivated by the arrest of Imran Khan, the Chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).

Asif condemned the attack on the sacred monuments and expressed his concerns about the impact it had on the families of the martyred. While he did not doubt anyone's loyalty, he questioned the intentions of those who orchestrated the attacks.

Before the rally, Asif visited the Yadgar-e-Shuhada (martyrs monument) in Chawinda to pay his respects. He praised the bravery of the martyrs in defending Pakistan and emphasized the need to honor their sacrifices.

Asif also criticized certain political leaders who, without explicitly naming them, were targeting the armed forces in the current situation. He believed that external elements were being included in these attacks and urged the people to express their genuine love and support for the army, disregarding the events of May 9.

Highlighting the resilience of the Pakistan Army, Asif acknowledged the ongoing sacrifices made by brave soldiers. He called for unity and solidarity among the nation to recognize and appreciate the sacrifices of the Pakistani forces.

Regarding the May 9 protests, they erupted across Pakistan following Imran Khan's arrest. The protesters caused damage to public property, set police vehicles on fire, and staged demonstrations in various cities. The protests resulted in multiple casualties, injuries, and a suspension of internet services nationwide for over 72 hours.

During these protests, the enraged mob attacked sensitive national institutions and buildings, including the GHQ and Corps Commander House (Jinnah House). The protesters also vandalized the martyrs' monument and set fire to Radio Pakistan's building.

In response to these attacks, the Punjab government decided to form a joint investigation team (JIT) on May 13 to investigate the incidents and identify those responsible. The military's top officials strongly condemned the protests, labeling May 9 as a "Black Day," and pledged to take legal action against the protesters and their collaborators under relevant laws, including the Pakistan Army Act and the Official Secrets Act.