PML-N Balochistan Strongly Condemns Violence Against Nasir Ahmed Kakar, Demands Immediate Arrest of Accused

QUETTA (Daily Qudrat) – Pakistan Muslim League (N) leader Muhammad Nawaz Bangalzai, while strongly condemning the alleged violence against renowned Balochistan journalist and UN News Agency Bureau Chief Nasir Ahmed Kakar, termed it an extremely regrettable, condemnable act contrary to Balochistan’s traditions and journalistic values. He demanded that the Government of Balochistan and relevant law enforcement agencies take immediate notice of the incident, take indiscriminate legal action against those involved, and arrest the responsible accused and award them appropriate punishment in accordance with the law. In his issued press statement, Muhammad Nawaz Bangalzai said that Nasir Ahmed Kakar is a gentle, humanitarian, sociable, and kind-hearted personality who is fulfilling his responsibilities in the field of journalism. He said that subjecting any citizen, especially a journalist, to violence is unacceptable in any way, and to prevent such incidents, the government and law enforcement agencies must fulfill their responsibilities. Muhammad Nawaz Bangalzai said that in Balochistan’s social and tribal traditions, honor, respect, tolerance, and mutual respect have always held fundamental importance. In such a situation, subjecting any person to violence is not only an injustice to an individual but can also strengthen the trend of intolerance and lawlessness in society. He said that the resolution of differences and disputes should be sought through law and constitutional and legal procedures instead of violence or the use of force. He said that journalists play the role of the eyes and ears of society and by highlighting public issues, deprivations, difficulties, and other important matters, they bring them before the authorities and the public. Journalism is a responsible field, and providing a safe environment to journalists while they discharge their professional duties is the responsibility of the government and the state. The PML-N leader said that if journalists face violence, threats, pressure, or any kind of fear, then as a result not only journalistic activities are affected but the process of free expression and access to information in society can also be affected. He said that journalists should be provided with adequate protection to perform their duties without fear or risk. Muhammad Nawaz Bangalzai said that the incident of violence against a senior and responsible journalist like Nasir Ahmed Kakar is an extremely serious matter, to which the Government of Balochistan and relevant institutions should take immediate notice. He demanded that a complete, transparent, and impartial investigation into the incident be conducted so that facts can come to light and responsible elements can be identified. He said that during the investigation, all aspects should be examined, and if evidence emerges against any person, action should be taken against them in accordance with the law. He made clear that no individual or group should be allowed to take the law into their own hands, and the rule of law must be ensured in all circumstances. Muhammad Nawaz Bangalzai said that the Government of Balochistan should not ignore this incident by treating it as a mere ordinary matter, but should take it seriously and take immediate measures. He said that timely legal action will not only help in providing justice to the affected journalist but will also prove to be an effective message for the prevention of such incidents in the future. He said that Balochistan is already facing various social and economic problems, and in such circumstances, promoting peace, tolerance, and mutual respect in society is an important need of the time. He said that violence is not a solution to any problem; rather, it makes problems more complicated. Difference of opinion exists in every society; however, resolving differences while remaining within the bounds of law is the hallmark of a civilized and democratic society. He further said that any kind of violence or threat against journalists should not be acceptable. The journalistic community plays an important role in identifying public issues, conveying information about government actions to the public, and creating awareness in society. Therefore, an environment is necessary for journalists where they can discharge their responsibilities without any fear or pressure. Muhammad Nawaz Bangalzai said that a transparent investigation into the alleged violence against Nasir Ahmed Kakar should be conducted and all those responsible should be brought to justice. He demanded that the Government of Balochistan immediately arrest the individuals involved in the incident and take action against them in accordance with the law, so that the requirements of justice are fulfilled and the concern prevailing in the journalistic community is eliminated. He said that the protection of citizens’ lives, property, honor, and dignity is the fundamental responsibility of the state, and no citizen can be allowed to be subjected to violence or illegal action. He expressed the hope that the Government of Balochistan and relevant institutions will take immediate notice of the incident and take effective action against the responsible elements. PML-N leader Muhammad Nawaz Bangalzai, once again strongly condemning the incident of violence against Nasir Ahmed Kakar, said that practical steps should be taken to ensure the protection of journalists, freedom of the press, and the supremacy of law. He said that immediate and impartial action by the government can further strengthen the confidence of the public and the journalistic community. In the end, the PML-N leader demanded from Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti and Provincial Interior Minister Mir Zia Lango that strict orders be issued to the police to arrest the accused as soon as possible.