POLITICS & POLICY MAKING
Interior Minister Announces Restrictions on Afghan Nationals in Islamabad, Highlights PTI Protest Aftermath
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Wednesday announced that Afghan nationals residing in Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) must secure proper authorization by December 31 or face expulsion. Afghan citizens wishing to stay in the capital after this date must obtain a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the deputy commissioner.
The announcement follows government claims that hardened criminals, including Afghan nationals, were involved in the PTI's recent violent protests. Addressing the media, Mr. Naqvi dismissed allegations of fatalities during the protests, challenging the PTI to provide evidence. He emphasized that law enforcement officials were unarmed while handling the unrest, and baseless rumors of deaths were being spread.
Mr. Naqvi stated that a contempt petition would be filed against PTI leaders for violating Islamabad High Court's ban on protests in the Red Zone. He added that normalcy had returned to the city, with most roads reopened.
The minister also hinted at releasing data on tear gas allegedly used by protesters, reportedly supplied by the KP government.
Visit to Injured Law Enforcement Personnel
Mr. Naqvi, alongside DG Rangers Punjab Maj Gen Muhammad Aatif, visited PIMS Hospital to meet with injured law enforcement personnel, praising their bravery and directing doctors to provide the best care. Special arrangements were made to transfer ASP Muhammad Aleem, injured in the protests, to Lahore for better treatment.
The minister emphasized that no protester fatalities had been reported during operations, but law enforcement suffered significant losses, including the martyrdom of four personnel and injuries to 223 others. The operation successfully ended the PTI protest, which caused extensive damage to public and private property.
A statement from the ICT administration lauded the professional response of law enforcement in maintaining peace and order. Authorities urged the public and media to refrain from spreading misinformation and to support efforts to ensure harmony in the capital.