Rawalpindi: Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR), has accused the Baloch Raji Metchi and its so-called leadership of being a proxy for terrorists and criminal mafias. Addressing a press conference, General Chaudhry stated that the military does not operate under any specific political ideology, party, religion, or sect, but solely focuses on Pakistan’s development and progress without hesitation.
Regarding Kashmir’s Suppression Day, the DG ISPR reaffirmed the Pakistan Armed Forces’ support for the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination, honoring their sacrifices and pledging unwavering support.
General Chaudhry noted that there has been an increase in organized propaganda and false news against the Pakistan Army in recent times. To counter this, the military has decided to hold press conferences regularly to provide updates on effective counter-terrorism measures and professional activities of the armed forces.
He revealed that over the current year, 23,622 intelligence-based operations have been conducted, leading to the elimination of 24 terrorists in just 15 days. He emphasized that over 100 operations are carried out daily by the Pakistan Army, intelligence agencies, police, and other law enforcement bodies to combat terrorism.
Chaudhry mentioned that the recent government decision to label the banned Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) as “Fitna al-Khawarij” (the Khawarij Heresy) underscores its detachment from Islam and Pakistan. Recent intelligence operations have resulted in the elimination of key terrorists in Mohmand and Dera Ismail Khan districts.
In the first seven months of 2024, 139 brave officers and soldiers lost their lives in counter-terrorism operations, reflecting the ongoing commitment of the armed forces to enhance internal and border security.
The DG ISPR also highlighted the military’s role in educational and health sectors, particularly in the conflict-affected areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. The Pakistan Army has established 94 schools and 12 technical colleges in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and 92 schools in Balochistan, benefiting thousands of students. Additionally, 87 medical camps have been set up in Balochistan, treating over 115,000 patients, with a strong focus on eradicating polio and improving infrastructure.
Addressing questions about the current unrest in Balochistan, General Chaudhry condemned the actions of Baloch Raji Metchi, accusing them of attempting to malign law enforcement, obstruct developmental projects, and provoke unrest through violence and external funding. He criticized the group for blocking roads, attacking civilians, and assaulting security personnel, stressing that the government has advocated for peaceful protests but faced aggression in return.