Talaal Choudhry rejects ‘Somnath’ threat

Talaal Choudhry rejects ‘Somnath’ threat

Minister of State for Interior Senator Talal Chaudhry has responded to a statement threatening to turn Islamabad into “Somnath,” saying the government will allow peaceful citizens to enter the capital but will take action against anyone attempting to create disorder or violence.

Chaudhry said there would be no restriction on peaceful citizens travelling to Islamabad. “If you are a peaceful citizen, come to Islamabad through any route, and come 100 times,” he said.

However, the minister warned that those who arrive with the intention of creating violence or unrest will face legal action. He made it clear that the government would not tolerate any unlawful activity or actions that could endanger public safety.

Chaudhry said the authorities would fully comply with the directions issued by the Islamabad High Court and take all necessary measures to maintain law and order in the federal capital.

He added that the government would not allow any activity in Islamabad that violates the law or poses a threat to the lives and property of citizens.

Referring to the situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the minister criticised those making threats against Islamabad and questioned their performance in the province. He said that despite serious challenges in areas such as security, health and education, such political leaders were talking about turning Islamabad into “Somnath.”

“We know what they have turned Khyber Pakhtunkhwa into,” Chaudhry said, arguing that the province continues to face serious problems that require attention.

The minister further said the government would not allow what he described as a violent mindset to spread or dictate events in the capital. According to Chaudhry, recent statements had revealed what he claimed was the actual plan behind the proposed protest.

His remarks came after PTI Khyber Pakhtunkhwa President Junaid Akbar said at a workers’ convention that the party would march towards Islamabad and declared that the capital would be turned into “Somnath.” The statement has intensified political tensions ahead of the planned protest.

Chaudhry reiterated that the government would enforce the law and ensure that Islamabad remained safe for residents, visitors and public institutions.