Islamabad:Information Minister Atta Ullah Tarar has said terrorists cannot be given free hand in KP.
He said this while addressing a ceremony here in the perspective of changing landscape of terrorism in KP .
He held provincial government has failed in taking effective steps to eliminate terrorism during the last 13 years. This created difficulties in overcoming law and order situation.
He raised the question as to why the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) has not been made functional in KP. Safe city cameras were not installed in several cities. Modern arms were also not provided to police while protecting the life and property of citizens is basic responsibility of the provincial government.
He underlined the citizens kept on losing their lives in terror related incidents. But no proactive steps against the terrorism were seen to have been taken by the provincial government.
He remarked when situation spiraled out of control then extreme step was taken. The decision for imposition of governor rule and declaration of emergency in KP has been taken for the safety of the people. '
He raised questions on use of funds given to KP under NFC award.
He observed Pakistan was facing grave problems like terrorism and extremism.
Besides rendering sacrifice of thousands of lives in war on terror the country had to sustain financial loss more than 100 billion dollars.
He stated Pakistan played a role for global peace and security by fighting against terrorists. These sacrifices helped in making the country secure.
Making mention of presence of terrorists in Afghanistan he said Pakistan on different forums has been demanding of Afghanistan to play its role for eradication of terrorism. Over 20000 terrorists are present in Afghanistan which include over 6000 terrorists of TTP.
He said these terrorists live in safe hideouts in Afghanistan and receive training therein.
He made it clear that Pakistan wants a peaceful and secure Afghanistan because this will benefit to the region including Pakistan.
Pakistan has hosted 4000000 lac Afghan refugees during the last 40 years. Pakistan hospitality and love for Afghan people is before the world.
He said Pakistan has played an active role for establishment of regional peace.
Pakistan role in the efforts for defusing tension between US and Iran remained conspicuous. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif too played a significant role in the promotion of peace.
Citing to talks with PTI he said government had given assurance PTI that the matter of meeting with PTI founder can be resolved. However talks should be held on the strategy against terrorism beside it.
He said people of KP are patriotic and ensuring protection of their lives and property is essential.