Dawood Ahmed:
ISLAMABAD: In a press conference on Monday, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General (DG) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry expressed concerns about the inadequate legal measures against “digital terrorism,” which has allowed the spread of fake news and propaganda in Pakistan.
During his address, Lt Gen Chaudhry emphasized the role of the country’s law as the first line of defense against digital terrorism. He lamented the ongoing spread of lies, propaganda, fake news, and doctored images, particularly on social media, which create public confusion. “It is the country’s law that has to control and curb digital terrorism, [but] unfortunately, the law is not taking its course against [digital terrorism] the way it should,” he stated.
Lt Gen Chaudhry stressed that the Pakistan Army is taking the issue seriously. He warned that any individual, regardless of their position or location, who is found spreading propaganda against the Pakistan Army or creating a divide between the army and the people, will face necessary legal action. “There is a whole process for it,” he explained.
Shifting focus, Lt Gen Chaudhry also addressed the recent Baloch National Gathering, which he described as a “drama” orchestrated in Gwadar. He accused the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) and its leadership of being proxies for terrorist organizations and criminal mafias, alleging they receive foreign funding to spread propaganda against law enforcement and disrupt development projects in the province. He claimed that the group’s methods include gathering mobs, challenging the state’s authority, and feigning innocence when the state responds.
Regarding reports of ongoing talks with a certain political party and the army’s position on the May 9 riots, the DG ISPR reaffirmed that the army’s stance, clearly stated on May 7, 2023, remains unchanged.
Last week, PTI founder Imran Khan, after months of strained relations with the army, signaled a willingness to engage in talks with the military establishment.
Lt Gen Chaudhry also provided an update on the country’s security situation, highlighting the Pakistan Army’s counter-terrorism efforts. He reported that security forces conducted 23,622 intelligence-based operations in 2024, showcasing the army’s commitment to combating terrorism and ensuring national security.
