Fazlur Rehman must clarify his statement personally, says Talal Chaudhry

Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry has said that discussions over Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s remarks concerning martyrs and the state cannot move forward until the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief personally explains his statements.

Islamabad: Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry has said that discussions over Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s remarks concerning martyrs and the state cannot move forward until the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief personally explains his statements.

Speaking to reporters at Parliament House in Islamabad Chaudhry said Fazlur Rehman should directly clarify the comments he made about the martyrs and the state.

He noted that leaders from the religious scholar’s party had been offering explanations on his behalf but stressed that the matter required a response from Fazlur Rehman himself.

Chaudhry added that the remarks concerning the martyrs and the state would continue to be remembered as part of the country’s political history.

The minister also commented on Interior Minister Senator Mohsin Naqvi saying that he had so far said very little and had more to share. According to Chaudhry Naqvi would speak further when the appropriate opportunity arose.

Addressing political differences and civil liberties the minister maintained that disagreements between political groups should not result in compromises over anyone’s constitutional legal or human rights.

He also rejected suggestions that the government was neglecting matters involving medical treatment and meetings for women.

Chaudhry said the government was taking the necessary steps regarding these issues and was not showing any negligence. He added that the Senate opposition leader had submitted further requests concerning medical treatment and meetings for women.

His remarks come amid political discussion surrounding Fazlur Rehman’s comments about the state and those who lost their lives in its service.