Khawaja Asif questions Mr Patlu’s giveaway stunt

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has criticised TikToker Mr Patlu following a deadly stampede at his wedding-related event in Daska, Sialkot, accusing him of turning the ceremony into a publicity stunt to generate views and social media revenue.

In a statement shared on social media platform X, the minister strongly condemned the incident, which claimed the lives of two people and left dozens of others injured.

Khawaja Asif said Mr Patlu, whose real name is Ansar Jatt, had announced expensive giveaways, including cash prizes, cars, motorcycles and other valuable gifts, attracting a massive crowd to the event.

He alleged that the announcements were part of a carefully planned spectacle designed to increase online engagement and generate substantial earnings rather than simply help people in need.

The minister described the giveaways as a business investment by the TikToker, claiming that the event exploited the financial difficulties and poverty of local residents. He said the resulting crowd surge led to a stampede that cost two people their lives and injured several others.

Khawaja Asif also alleged that the TikToker was absconding and attempting to use his political and financial influence to avoid legal action.

He warned that the unchecked activities of social media personalities could pose serious risks to society if their conduct was not brought under proper accountability.

The defence minister also questioned whether major social media earners were paying taxes in accordance with the country’s laws. He specifically raised concerns about whether the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) was monitoring the substantial incomes generated by popular digital creators.

His remarks have added to the debate over the responsibilities of social media personalities who organise large public gatherings and promotional events.

The stampede has also raised concerns about crowd management, event security and the need for proper arrangements before announcing giveaways that can attract large numbers of people.

The incident in Daska has prompted calls for accountability as authorities face questions over the circumstances that led to the deadly gathering.