Imran: talks only with those who renounce violence

Published September 24, 2013
Although he didn’t say it in so many words, the PTI chief implied that those unwilling to renounce violence should be taken head on and talks should be held only with who were willing to engage in dialogue.

“Absolutely no reasoning could justify the killing of even one innocent human, let alone attacking a whole community.”  — File Photo
Although he didn’t say it in so many words, the PTI chief implied that those unwilling to renounce violence should be taken head on and talks should be held only with who were willing to engage in dialogue. “Absolutely no reasoning could justify the killing of even one innocent human, let alone attacking a whole community.” — File Photo

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf Chairman Imran Khan appears to have adopted a less conciliatory attitude towards armed militants, although he does not single out any militant organisation currently attacking government forces in tribal areas.

Whether it is because of the killing of over 80 people in Sunday’s suicide blasts at the Peshawar church or of two senior military officers last week, Mr Khan is now somewhat toughening his stance against militancy.

A statement of Mr Khan issued by the PTI media wing on Monday said: “Those who carried out the attack against the Christian community and their church in Peshawar are to be condemned in the strongest terms possible.”

A strong proponent of talks with the militants fighting law-enforcement agencies in Fata and the PTI-ruled Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Mr Khan said talks could be held only with those who were willing to renounce violence and accept the writ of the state.

“If peace is to be given a chance, then it is essential to isolate those who are dedicated to an agenda of violence and to carrying out terror attacks against innocent people, from those who are prepared to have a ceasefire and talk peace within the ambit of the Constitution of Pakistan.”

Although he didn’t say it in so many words, the PTI chief implied that those unwilling to renounce violence should be taken head on and talks should be held only with who were willing to engage in dialogue.

“Absolutely no reasoning could justify the killing of even one innocent human, let alone attacking a whole community.”

Opinion

Editorial

Slow start
Updated 15 Jun, 2024

Slow start

Despite high attendance, the NA managed to pass only a single money bill during this period.
Sindh lawlessness
Updated 15 Jun, 2024

Sindh lawlessness

A recently released report describes the law and order situation in Karachi as “worryingly poor”.
Punjab budget
15 Jun, 2024

Punjab budget

PUNJAB’S budget for 2024-25 provides much fodder to those who believe that the increased provincial share from the...
Budget and politics
Updated 14 Jun, 2024

Budget and politics

PML-N, scared of taking bold steps lest it loses whatever little public support it has, has left its traditional support — traders — virtually untouched.
New talks?
14 Jun, 2024

New talks?

WILL this prove another false start, or may we expect a more sincere effort this time? Reference is made to the...
A non-starter
14 Jun, 2024

A non-starter

WHILE the UN Security Council had earlier this week adopted a US-backed resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza...