No leniency for Noreen, warns Talal

The federal government has intensified its criticism of Noreen Niazi, the sister of the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf

The federal government has intensified its criticism of Noreen Niazi, the sister of the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), over her recent controversial remarks. Senior ministers said the matter would be dealt with strictly under the law and warned that no individual would receive preferential treatment if found responsible for violating legal provisions.

Speaking separately to the media, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry and Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry strongly condemned Noreen Niazi’s statements. They described the remarks as irresponsible, regrettable, and harmful to Pakistan’s national interests. Both ministers said the government considered the issue serious because it related to national institutions and public confidence.

Talal Chaudhry said the law is equal for everyone regardless of political affiliation or personal status. He said anyone accused of spreading a narrative that harms Pakistan’s stability or weakens state institutions would be investigated according to the law. He added that there would be no leniency if any violation was established through the legal process.

The minister’s remarks came after the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) summoned Noreen Niazi to appear before investigators in connection with her recent comments made during an online interview. He said she would be given a full opportunity to present her position before the authorities, after which the law would take its course.

Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry also criticised the statement, saying it was not merely an individual opinion but reflected what he described as a continuing pattern of criticism by the PTI leadership against national institutions. He alleged that similar statements had repeatedly been made over the years and had damaged Pakistan’s image.

Referring to Marka-e-Haq, Tariq Fazal said the operation represented a significant achievement for Pakistan. He praised the armed forces for their professionalism and sacrifices, saying the country’s defence institutions had earned respect through their performance. He stressed that the armed forces remain a symbol of national unity and security.

The minister said statements that question national institutions or undermine Pakistan’s interests cannot be accepted. He added that political disagreements should never cross the line of national responsibility. According to him, every political party has the right to express its views, but such opinions should not harm the country’s image or weaken public confidence in state institutions.

Talal Chaudhry also accused the PTI leadership of repeatedly pursuing politics that, in his view, had harmed Pakistan’s interests. He alleged that the party had attempted to create political and economic uncertainty through its public campaigns. He maintained that national interests should always take priority over political rivalry.

The controversy emerged after Noreen Niazi made remarks during an online interview regarding Marka-e-Haq and Pakistan’s security institutions. The comments drew criticism from several leaders of the ruling coalition, who demanded legal action and described the statement as unacceptable.