PTM will not be allowed to set up parallel court under the guise of a jirga: Naqvi

ISLAMABAD: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has said that the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM), which has been banned by the Ministry of Interior, cannot be permitted to establish a parallel judicial system.

Addressing a press conference, Naqvi warned that anyone supporting the PTM or attempting to participate in its upcoming Pashtoon Qaumi Jirga will face legal consequences.

Naqvi said that there is no objection to the holding of a jirga by PTM, as it has happened before. However, a jirga consists of tribal elders; bringing thousands of people is not a jirga, it is something else.

“On one hand, it is called a jirga, and on the other hand, it is being referred to as a court. This is the decision of our government — we will not allow the establishment of a parallel court in any case.”

He further explained that the ban on PTM was imposed because it was disrespeting the state, the police while fanning racial and ethnic divisions. “You can advocate for your people’s rights, but using foul language is not acceptable. This kind of rhetoric against the government will not be allowed.”

Naqvi also mentioned that the leaders of two major political parties also met with the PTM leadership and expressed support for their demands, provided they focused on rights. However, after that meeting, PTM leaders did not make any contact.

He said that no one can be allowed to take up arms against the state. He said that over 50 PTM workers and supporters have been put on the exit control list.

Interior Minister Naqvi said that “if it is a matter of rights, the government is ready for negotiations, whether in Balochistan or Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

“It is unacceptable that you insult the state and we remain silent. Take examples of neighbouring countries to see what happens to such individuals there. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has put 54 individuals, and the Balochistan government 34 names in the Fourth Schedule. Provincial governments are legally obligated to seal the offices of any organization that is banned, along with imposing other restrictions.”

He added that anyone who assists such elements will also be targeted; their ID cards and passports will be blocked. “Our message is directed at those who wish to support them; our action is in accordance with the law.”

The interior minister said that the PTM receives assistance and funding from foreign companies, and their documentaries have been produced by these foreign entities. “We will soon present evidence of foreign funding for the PTM. Whoever is backing you, if you carry out such actions in our country, we will respond in kind. Do not expect us to remain silent while you create chaos in our country; there will be no forgiveness for troublemakers.”

Earlier, The Peshawar High Court on Wednesday restrained the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) from holding a Pashtoon Qaumi Jirgaon a disputed land. The court also prohibited the PTM organizers and the local Kokikhel tribe from using the land for the event.