Islamabad (Pakistan Khabar) — Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has accused the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government of planning to spread unrest and violence in the province through the long march scheduled to begin on October 4.
In a statement posted on a social media website, Khawaja Asif referred to the 2024 Bannu incident and said that, according to him, preparations had again been made to create chaos near military and police installations under the guise of protests.
The Defence Minister claimed that the relevant military and intelligence agencies had been informed in advance about the plan. According to him, the statement issued after the Corps Commanders Conference on October 2 also made it clear that violent disorder, attacks on state institutions or attempts to create situations similar to May 9 would be dealt with according to the law.
Khawaja Asif said that if any violent incident or attempt to attack state institutions takes place during the long march, action will be taken under the law.
Distinguishing political struggle from armed rebellion, he said protests can be held for political demands; however, according to him, if armed action is carried out under the guise of political activity, it will be considered an act against the state.
On the other hand, PTI has expressed its determination to hold the long march on October 4. According to the party, the march will begin from the southern districts, while caravans from different areas will gather in Swabi.