Defense Minister Khawaja Asif Calls for Public Execution of Manhole Cover Thieves

Islamabad:Federal Defence Minister **Khawaja Asif** has sparked intense debate after demanding that individuals who steal manhole covers be **shot publicly on the spot**.
Reacting strongly to a viral video on social media platform X showing thieves stealing a manhole cover, the minister expressed severe outrage. Sharing the footage, he wrote that such individuals should be brought **back to the crime scene and shot**, as they are “**killers of innocent children**.”
Khawaja Asif further stated that if no action is taken even after such clear evidence, then the **system itself becomes an accomplice** in the deaths caused by uncovered manholes.
The minister’s statement has triggered widespread discussion, with some people supporting harsh punishments due to rising fatalities from open manholes, while others argue that state officials should avoid endorsing extrajudicial measures.