PESHAWAR: Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar has accused Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) of undermining peace in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa by allegedly resettling militants in the province, saying the party’s policies have contributed to renewed security challenges.
Addressing a press conference, Tarar said security forces had cleared areas and restored peace through operations such as Zarb-e-Azb and Radd-ul-Fasaad, but alleged that PTI later facilitated the return and settlement of members of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
The minister accused PTI’s leadership of facilitating militants and alleged that its political thinking was aligned with the Taliban’s ideology. He also criticised the provincial government for what he described as its failure to adopt a clear and effective stance against terrorism.
Referring to the ongoing violence in Kohat, Hangu and Dera Ismail Khan, Tarar blamed PTI’s policies for the province’s deteriorating security situation.
He also paid tribute to police constable Faheemullah, who was martyred in Kohat, questioning how the provincial government would respond to the concerns of the fallen officer’s family.
Tarar further claimed that the provincial government had received approximately Rs700 billion under the National Finance Commission (NFC) framework for counterterrorism-related efforts but had failed to adequately strengthen the province’s security infrastructure.
He questioned what measures had been taken to improve the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), modernise the police force and expand Safe City surveillance systems.
He said effective monitoring at district entry and exit points and in sensitive areas was necessary to restrict militant movement.
The federal minister also criticised the provincial government, led by Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, for allegedly prioritising political protests over governance, development and public welfare.
He challenged the provincial administration to outline its achievements in healthcare, education, roads, universities, information technology and other infrastructure projects, arguing that residents continued to face poverty, inadequate public services and terrorism.
Comparing governance in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with Punjab, Sindh and Balochistan, Tarar said the provincial government should focus on administrative performance and development rather than political confrontation.
He also referred to initiatives launched by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in technology, IT and youth training, as well as a fuel relief scheme that he said had benefited more than 10 million people nationwide.
Tarar urged the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government to prioritise public service, security and development, accusing PTI of placing political interests above national interests.