Pakistan Government Summons PTI Leaders Amid Political Tensions

The Pakistani government has summoned 16 PTI leaders, including senior members, to appear before the Joint Investigation Team on March 18, due to allegations of anti-state propaganda on social media. Notably, Aleema Khanum has also been called for March 19. This follows comments from Defence Minister Khawaja Asif criticizing the PTI’s handling of a recent train attack, while PTI’s Asad Qaiser called for a focus on national security instead of political disputes.

In a significant political development, the Joint Investigation Team (JIT) established by the Pakistani government has re-issued summons to 16 members of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), led by Imran Khan. The summons request, set for March 18, is based on allegations concerning their involvement in disseminating negative propaganda via social media. Among those summoned is Aleema Khanum, the sister of the PTI founder, who is expected to appear on March 19.

The JIT has reported conducting investigations into the role of these PTI members in alleged anti-state propaganda. In related events, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif condemned the PTI during a National Assembly session, accusing the party of “politicising” a recent attack on the Jaffar Express train in Balochistan and misinterpreting the incident on social media.

Conversely, Asad Qaiser, a PTI parliamentarian and former National Assembly speaker, criticized the government’s approach to national security matters. He argued that the Defence Minister should have informed the Assembly regarding the Jaffar Express incident instead of engaging in political disputes, urging a focus on national security rather than politicization.

In summary, the Pakistani government’s summons to PTI leaders signifies increasing tensions within the political landscape, particularly regarding allegations of anti-state propaganda. The ongoing discourse following the Jaffar Express attack reflects the contentious relationship between the ruling government and the PTI, highlighting the political challenges faced in addressing national security issues.

Original Source: www.sentinelassam.com