Minister for Interior Rahman Malik – File photo by AFP
Minister for Interior Rahman Malik – File photo by AFP

ISLAMABAD: Interior Minister Rehman Malik on Friday said that out of 201 people arrested during demonstrations against anti-Islam film last week, 120 were Afghan nationals.

Speaking to media representatives while reviewing security arrangements in the Federal Capital, Malik said that a peaceful protest is the right of everyone but violation of law would not be allowed.

The minister said the government would ensure security of diplomatic enclave and diplomats and it would not allow anyone to disrupt peace.

He said the government was assured of peaceful demonstrations but due to terrorist threats in the capital, necessary measures were adopted with the closure of some entry and exit points. In this regard, the home secretary Punjab was also asked to stop demonstrators from coming to Islamabad, he added.

Replying to a question, the interior minister said that on the dual nationality issue, he would satisfy the Senate chairman with the provision of required documents.

“We have great respect for the judiciary and whenever the court will summon we will appear before it,” he said.

The minister said that on the directive of President Asif Ali Zardari, he raised the issue of anti-Islam film at the Saarc conference in Male, Maldives.

The European Union and other countries have also condemned the blasphemous film, he added.

He said that talks were held for peace in Balochistan and added that defaming the forces was against the national interests.

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