ISLAMABAD, Pakistan’s Information Minister Attaullah Tarar has accused the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government of failing to counter terrorism.
In a statement, Tarar said the provincial government could not protect citizens.
He called this a serious failure.
Tarar also alleged that the KP government was giving space to militants instead of fighting terrorism. These are his allegations and have not been independently established.
Tarar Questions KP Security Policy
The federal minister questioned the absence of meetings of the KP Apex Committee.
He said thousands of security personnel and officers had died while fighting terrorism.
Tarar also criticised the provincial government for what he described as a lack of support for security forces.
He asked why PTI leaders did not attend the funerals of security personnel killed in attacks.
He also questioned their visits to police and security posts.
Dispute Over Counterterrorism Measures
Tarar’s comments came after government-opposition talks ended without an agreement.
Counterterrorism measures in KP were a major point of disagreement.
The PTI said the federal government wanted unilateral action in the province.
PTI Secretary General Salman Akram Raja said such measures should involve the federal and provincial governments. He also called for consultation with political parties in the KP Assembly.
The federal government has presented a different position.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said the KP government had backed away from counterterrorism commitments discussed during the talks.
Tarar Questions PTI Position on Afghanistan
Tarar also questioned the PTI’s position on Afghanistan.
He said the party should clearly state where it stands on national security issues.
He alleged that the KP government benefits from Pakistan but supports Afghanistan.
Tarar also criticised the provincial government over its response to cross-border attacks.
He questioned why the KP government had not held its own Apex Committee meetings to review the security situation.
National Action Plan
The minister also raised questions about implementation of Pakistan’s National Action Plan.
He said the KP government should strengthen its police and Counter-Terrorism Department.
He also referred to forensic facilities and security measures in the province.
Tarar said protecting lives and property must remain the priority.
His remarks came as the PTI continued its long march toward Islamabad after the collapse of negotiations. More than 5,000 supporters had joined the march from Lakki Marwat, according to the Associated Press.