ISLAMABAD: Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) Central Spokesperson Fayyaz-ul-Hassan Chohan on Tuesday strongly criticized Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman over his recent remarks regarding Pakistan Army martyrs, saying that questioning the sacrifices of the armed forces hurts the sentiments of the entire nation.
Addressing a press conference at the National Press Club, Islamabad, Chohan said Pakistan Army personnel lay down their lives not for salaries but for the protection of the country, its people, and the future of coming generations. He said the remarks attributed to Maulana Fazlur Rehman had caused pain to the armed forces, the families of martyrs, and the Pakistani nation, and urged the JUI-F chief to apologize to the nation, the martyrs’ families, and the security forces.
He said Pakistan was passing through a critical phase in its fight against terrorism, with officers and personnel of the Pakistan Army, security forces, and law enforcement agencies making daily sacrifices in the line of duty. Chohan dedicated his press conference to Shaheed Major Adnan Haider and SSG Commando Tahseen Shaheed, paying tribute to their sacrifices.
Referring to Islamic history, Chohan said soldiers and fighters had historically received financial support from the state treasury (Bait-ul-Mal), adding that linking a soldier’s salary with the honour of martyrdom was contrary to both historical and religious facts.
He maintained that statements targeting the Pakistan Army strengthen the narrative of hostile forces at a time when the entire nation stands united with its armed forces against terrorism. He also alleged that certain political elements were attempting to undermine national unity during ongoing counterterrorism operations.
Chohan asserted that Pakistan’s armed forces are fully capable of defending the country and that there is no need for any parallel militia or private force. During the press conference, he also raised several questions regarding Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s alleged political stance, reported associations, and dynastic politics, saying those advocating democracy should first ensure democratic practices within their own parties.
Responding to a question, Chohan said the Pakistan Army was fulfilling its constitutional responsibilities in the fight against terrorism and stressed that the nation should remain united on matters of national security. He also urged the media to report responsibly on issues related to terrorism and national security and avoid becoming a platform for hostile propaganda.
