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Govt to Act Tough on Fast-Food Outlet Attacks: Tallal Chaudhry
Minister of State Tallal Chaudhry condemns attacks on global fast-food chains in Pakistan. “Such acts are un-Islamic & unconstitutional.” 145 arrests made; no party backed vandalism.
ND
by News Desk
2025-04-19
Govt to Act Tough on Fast-Food Outlet Attacks: Tallal Chaudhry

Minister of State for Interior Tallal Chaudhry on Saturday strongly condemned the recent spate of violent attacks on international fast-food outlets across Pakistan and affirmed that the government would take strict action against those involved.

The attacks — which were allegedly carried out in protest against Israeli actions in Gaza — resulted in damage to multiple outlets, particularly KFC branches, in Sindh and Punjab. Tragically, one incident in Sheikhupura on April 14 turned deadly when a worker was killed after armed men opened fire.

Speaking at a press conference in Faisalabad, Chaudhry made it clear that protecting the lives and properties of all citizens, including those running foreign franchises, was the responsibility of the state. “The state has a duty to ensure the safety of Pakistani businesses as well as foreign investors,” he said.

According to Chaudhry, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi had issued strict directives to the provinces to ensure the protection of businesses and crack down on any such violence. He revealed that approximately 20 attacks took place across Pakistan, resulting in 145 arrests and 12 FIRs registered in Punjab alone. In Islamabad, 15 individuals were also detained.

Chaudhry emphasized that no political or religious party was officially linked to the attacks. “Some individuals may have acted on personal sentiments, but no organized party gave the call for such actions,” he stated, lauding political and religious parties for distancing themselves from the violence and calling it the “true representation of Islam.”

He further revealed that 21 activists of Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) were arrested in connection with incidents in Karachi and Lahore. “Those who were arrested have expressed regret in their video statements and asked for forgiveness,” he added.

Addressing the economic impact, Chaudhry clarified that the franchises being attacked are owned by Pakistani Muslims, employ over 25,000 people, and reinvest their profits in Pakistan. “What excuse is left to attack such businesses?” he questioned.

The minister also noted that these international food chains contribute millions in taxes and have invested over $100 million in Pakistan, unlike many local businesses that evade tax obligations.

Chaudhry slammed the attackers for acting against both Islam and the Constitution, stating, “These attacks are intolerable and will be treated just like acts of terrorism.”

He concluded by pointing out that renowned religious scholars have issued fatwas (decrees) declaring such attacks and baseless boycotts to be un-Islamic, urging the public to reject violence in the name of protest.

 
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