The National Security Committee (NSC) of Pakistan supported the military’s decision to prosecute those involved in vandalizing military establishments under the Pakistan Army Act and Official Secret Act.
The NSC meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, was attended by high-ranking officials, including senior cabinet ministers, three service chiefs, the Director-General of ISI, and others.
The meeting was held in response to violent protests that erupted following the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Demonstrators attacked and damaged military installations, including the Corps Commander’s residence in Lahore.
Army Chief General Asim Munir led a special corps commanders conference on Monday, resolving to prosecute all those involved in these attacks under the Pakistan Army and Official Secrets Act.
Read: PTI Recognizes Military Statement as ‘Immensely Important’, Calls for Full Investigation
The Prime Minister’s office released a statement following the NSC meeting, saying, “The meeting has agreed to commence trials against all involved parties, including instigators and facilitators, under relevant laws, which include the Pakistan Army Act and the Official Secrets Act, to ensure justice.”
The NSC declared a policy of ‘zero tolerance’ towards violence and unrest in the country, marking May 9 as a national day of mourning, referred to as Black Day. The committee members strongly condemned the attacks on military installations for personal and political gain, stating that such transgressions against the sanctity and dignity of military facilities and public property would not be tolerated.
The forum insisted that those responsible for the Black Day of May 9 events will face justice, and no leniency will be shown to those who attack military establishments for any reason.
Read: Imran Khan Accuses Unnamed Agencies of Inciting Violence Amid PTI’s Protest
While condemning the violence, the NSC and military leaders underscored the importance of national unity in the face of growing geopolitical complexities due to global political conflict and the disruptive policies of adversarial powers. They also stressed the importance of resolving political disputes through dialogue rather than confrontation, in line with democratic principles.
The meeting also directed stricter enforcement of social media regulations to counter propaganda sponsored externally and facilitated internally and to hold those responsible accountable.
However, observers doubt reaching a consensus in the current climate, particularly with the ongoing crackdown against the PTI and its supporters.
