Peshawar attack: Imran Khan postpones PTI's Dec 18 protests

Dawn.com Published December 16, 2014

ISLAMABAD: Following a deadly terrorist attack on a school in Peshawar on Tuesday that claimed over 120 lives, Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan has postponed his party's countrywide protests scheduled for Dec 18.

Earlier today, PTI Punjab President Ejaz Chaudhry had sent a recommendation to Imran requesting to postpone the party's countrywide protests.

Over 120, including 84 children, were killed when terrorists took hundreds of students and teachers hostage in the Army Public School. The attack was claimed by Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

PTI's protest call was aimed at paralysing the entire country to put pressure on the ruling Pakistan Muslim League - Nawaz (PML-N) government to carry out investigations for alleged rigging in last year's general elections.

On Nov 30, Imran had announced his party's Plan 'C', starting from paralysing Faisalabad, Karachi and Lahore in its initial phase and leading up to shutting down the entire country in its final round.

PTI's Faisalabad shutdown call had seen violent clashes taking place with PML-N supporters, resulting in the death of one PTI activist Haq Nawaz. The violence had complicated an already tense political situation with both sides blaming one another for the impasse.

Imran has reiterated his demand of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's resignation, demanding a fresh probe into alleged rigging in the elections. The PTI chief was confident that his new push for street agitation would succeed.

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KHAN

Dec 16, 2014 03:59pm

O Thanks very much for this kindness !!!, bad time now pl.sit together and resolve this ongoing terror situation in KP.

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zaki

Dec 16, 2014 04:02pm

Rigt decision first comes pakistan and then politcal differences

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Ahmed

Dec 16, 2014 04:03pm

Good decision.

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syed ghulam hussain

Dec 16, 2014 04:04pm

A right decision at a right time. This is what I thought after the deadly event.

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saad

Dec 16, 2014 04:05pm

Time for nation to be united. We cannot defeat terrorism with polarized and political divisions.

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Shahid

Dec 16, 2014 04:06pm

Good Decision

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dollar

Dec 16, 2014 04:07pm

Imram will be the biggest loser due to this incident.

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Ashamed Pakistani

Dec 16, 2014 04:08pm

These children could have been doctors, engineers, scientists. They could have been the only source of income for their families in the future. But instead they are all dead. And the leadership and opposition want to play musical chairs instead of doing their job. Shame on us all and especially on PTI. I am sick to my stomach.

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Real

Dec 16, 2014 04:10pm

Finally the famous message of Shk Rasheed is understood by the militant wing of PTI and action is in place..... Shame on the wrong doers.

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Zahid

Dec 16, 2014 04:11pm

Even though I supported Imran Khan previously. I believe he needs to start taking more notice and control of Peshawar for which he was elected for. A bad KPK is not good news for Pakistan. During this war on terror he needs to help the country.

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salman Shah

Dec 16, 2014 04:12pm

This is a time to stand tgether as a nation and this includes politicians. IK must understand and acknowledge that by focusing on his country wide protests his government had forgotten KPK province and huge tragedy has resulted. Nevertheless; first sensible decision by IK in approximately a year.

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Salim R

Dec 16, 2014 04:12pm

Wise decision, beside all differences we should stand one for the sake of country.

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Nav

Dec 16, 2014 04:15pm

I can see the pain in Imran's eyes. His sincerity can't be questioned.

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Farida

Dec 16, 2014 04:17pm

Still doing politics we as nation should be crying today for what has happened and it seems that we have touched the lower level of humanity index - May God help us

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Hashim

Dec 16, 2014 04:19pm

So sad Mr. ABC that your plan D was unveiled today. You should bring out Plan E now. We had peace for sometime since Zarb-e-Azb but you spoiled everything. See what happened today and think again what you are doing to this country.

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khalifa

Dec 16, 2014 04:21pm

The nation expected a cancellation of these mindless activities by Mr Imran Khan and his coterie of turn coats (read Mr Shah Mahmood Qureshi et al)! I hope some one read the newspaper to him to inform that four innocent lives were lost because of the civil disorder caused by his comrades and followers. A 'visionary' leader like him should inform the ordinary 'old' Pakistanis about the expected damage to the life and property that his lust for power will cause this nation.

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Muhammad

Dec 16, 2014 04:29pm

We need to forget every thing and stand united and focus now only on Military operation in NW Region to eradicate terrorists altogether.

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Usman

Dec 16, 2014 04:36pm

I would recommend all the stake holders to sit down and devise a national policy for peace and prosperity of the country. Enough is enough.

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Adil

Dec 16, 2014 04:40pm

May Allah gives the solace to the effected families and departed the souls of these in Jannah. This is very sad dismissal.

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jahangir Khan

Dec 16, 2014 04:45pm

We are immensely grieved over this incidence and look our politicians they are postponing the plans and still fighting for seats. all politicians should leave Pakistan please, we are greatly disturbed over this incidence.

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Shumail Arshad

Dec 16, 2014 04:51pm

@dollar We are still divided.. Nation is the biggest loser with these incidents

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faisal

Dec 16, 2014 04:59pm

@Ashamed Pakistani right bro.

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ibrat

Dec 16, 2014 05:06pm

Who will call this slave of his ego a serious person who is bent upon creating anarchy in the country and dividing the nation to serve his political ambitions at the crucial time when national unity and harmony were most needed. Indeed politics is a very dirty game.

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abdul

Dec 16, 2014 05:07pm

Take strongest possible action against ttp

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roarwali

Dec 16, 2014 05:09pm

We shouldn't blame anyone for the accident at the moment. Definitely it was an intelligence failure (i don't mean only army) but it happens when you are in war. Our sympathies for the families of the deceased

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Babar-Canada

Dec 16, 2014 05:24pm

Altaf Hussan, Imran Khan, Nawaz Sharif, Asif Zardari, Asfandyar Wali and all other must join their hands to fight against terrorism. Its time for Imran Khan, Jamat-e-Islami and Nawaz Sharif to take a clear stance whether they are with the TTP or with Pakistan.........Forget all the political differences just be like One Nation against all these extremist...

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sikander

Dec 16, 2014 05:27pm

Its not a time to politics.Imran, Nawaz or even any other leader did not expect this.

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Hamza

Dec 16, 2014 05:31pm

Shows how Imran Khan federal government security apparatus and intelligence has failed...all are busy in their dharnas, while Pakistan is burning....Thanks a lot IK Everything is left to the army all the time...Pakistan today is only because eof the army..all other institutions are corrupt in many ways... Taliban should be taught a harsh good lesson, for targeting children like cowards..they are not from this country and should be routed out or banished

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Mamata_Begam

Dec 16, 2014 05:32pm

Lets see how he handles the Peshawar incident. It is the test for his future presidency. Matters are going to get much worse then.

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Pakistani

Dec 16, 2014 05:35pm

It will be high insensitive and heartless for anyone to try to make political capital out of this huge national tragedy. In these hours of our national tragedy we should only think of the families who have lost dear ones. The nation stands behind them and we offer our prayers for all the departed soul. The perpetrators have committed a crime against humanity.We must find these barbarians wherever and whoever they are and bring them to face justice. Whatever the cost and time .

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Muslim

Dec 16, 2014 05:40pm

Stop all non sense in Pakistan. Solve every problem by negotiations. Put electronic chip on every vehicle to allow on roads. Ask USA to give top gadgets to watch each vehicle and area.

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Dec 16, 2014 05:41pm

@Ashamed Pakistani : You have rightly quoted this name for yourself, as it is to be asked by you that what you have done for the betterment of this nation? Criticizing PTI for this is not fair. Once do something for nation then defame.

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Zeb

Dec 16, 2014 05:41pm

Good Decision,

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Naveed ,USA

Dec 16, 2014 05:48pm

@dollar Why do you blame IK what about PML-N led govt who is ruling Pakistan and PPP govt who was in power before. Did they manage to stop these kind of incidents? It's global problem , it is happening everywhere.

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AKBaloch

Dec 16, 2014 06:28pm

Our problem is lack of uninspiring leadership, Blue Bus, Green Bus that is all MNS can talk about.

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Jahangir khan

Dec 16, 2014 06:38pm

All security arrangements left behind and looking for four halqa votes for the last four months by imran disturbing whole Pakistan.

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Itsqashi

Dec 16, 2014 06:41pm

I do not understand what Imran khan can give you Pakistan which he is not able to deliver in smallest province. Shame on such politicians , CM is always in Dherna does not care of province poor people. Imran Khan you can not clean other people house if your own house is full of filth and dirt. Clean KPK first if you have the capabilities.

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rehan

Dec 16, 2014 07:04pm

surprising that he is that flexible. He is busy mobilizing his mob and misses out taking care of his province security. Shame on Imran Khan. He is partially responsible for this tragic incident as he is too busy with himself and his disappointments rather than taking care of his province .

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Saad

Dec 16, 2014 08:08pm

Pity that Imran Khan and his PTI are busy in other cities but their own province and majoe city is being held hostage by militants. If he and his party had any shame, his chief minister would have resigned by now. Why demand the same thing from the PM of the country when you cant even govern your own city?

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Mehtab

Dec 16, 2014 09:48pm

Good Man. ...We are with you.

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Moona

Dec 16, 2014 09:55pm

Thank you very much. God knows how many people would have been unable to get to hospitals on Dec 18. You have already prevented four in Lahore yesterday.

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AHMED

Dec 16, 2014 09:56pm

@Shahid He had no choice. So, PTI supporters can stop applauding the "good decision" of Imran Khan and hold him accountable for not doing the job in KPK that his party was given the opportunity to do.

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Asim Munir

Dec 16, 2014 09:57pm

This is one the darkest events ever happened in Pakistan. When it comes to focus on root causes, we never think on it seriously. The fact is that the Pakistani army have played an excellent role in destroying the hide-outs of terrorists in the Northern areas. And stretching their efforts, they bring Afghanistan in-line of the interests of the both nations. Now terrorists are less likely to find refuge in our neighbourhood. Army Jawans offer their lives to carry out operation Zarb-e-Azb and now their children too are getting martyred. On the contrary, a few of our political parties are supporters, abettors and sponsors of these terrorists in the name of Islam and their wicked agenda. D.G. Rangers Karachi and then the Army chief explicitly expressed chaos in Karachi a political issue. A few days back, the Army chief also pointed out a supportive view-point for terrorists (found in our few political and religious leaders as well as intellectuals). These are the people responsible for terrorism in Pakistan and they must be recognized by the nation.

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AHMED

Dec 16, 2014 09:58pm

@Nav Stop admiring Imran Khan's eyes and look at his reckless, selfish actions.

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saeeds

Dec 16, 2014 10:14pm

Good decision .It is pity we only unite on dead bodies .

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Justice

Dec 16, 2014 10:14pm

As much I support Imran khan for his crusade against corrupt nawaz govt,it's high time he should go back to his province and take matters in his hand to bring some sanity in governance.

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Pakistani

Dec 16, 2014 10:47pm

This would be long forgotten. What have we learned from previous incidents? Corruption is at its extreme with politicians looting the country from both hands.How can you expect Nawaz, MQM or PPP to resolve the problems of Pakistan when they have terrorists in their midst, their assets overseas, when they sell their souls to foreign countries for petty monetary benefit and especially when they promote religious intolerance to gain political advantage. Bhutto and Zia are the two faces of the same coin same as Zardari and Nawaz. The problem with pakistan is not political differences but politicians themselves and unfortunately that includes everyone who have their hands dirty in "loot khsoot" wether they be military or media, or even people of pakistan

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Aly khan

Dec 16, 2014 11:04pm

@Moona how would you suggest bringing the rigging of the election investigated?? Or you believe in matti pao approach which has took us to this level for last 20 years

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jason

Dec 16, 2014 11:11pm

Imran Khan cares a damn what the Terrorists are doing to my beloved Pakistan. All he wants is power. Shah Mahmood Qureshi comments on this tragic incident was depressing - Imran if you are so brave and loyal - make your children live in Pakistan and face the music like us ordinary Pakistanis. You and your team are so pro-Taliban that your name Taliban Khan suits you - you have teamed with Jammat-i-Islami a party which was anti-Pakistan just to be in power.

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shafiq

Dec 16, 2014 11:12pm

Maybe, we won't have to see this saddened day if government would have solve their political difference a year ago. Let's be patience & pray for their lost ones.

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SYED ZAFAR KAZMI

Dec 16, 2014 11:23pm

@Nav Sincere or not, he is duty bound to attend the All Parties Conference scheduled for tomorrow instead of sending Shah Mehmood Qureshi, his number 2. Arrogance and stupor should end somewhere.

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Aly khan

Dec 16, 2014 11:29pm

NS govt has no clear strategy to deal with terrorism since they come in power. It's wise to stand together but this one incident shouldn't let NS get away from rigged election. Our sympathies and prayers go with the families of these Angels

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Nauman

Dec 17, 2014 12:27am

How can someone fire on children? Hearbroken.

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Rev. Eldrick Lal

Dec 17, 2014 01:08am

Imran please stop crippling Pakistan, it is already crippled and lamed. Put away your differences with the incumbent government and for God's sake stand up with these leaders and let's fight these inhuman who have done this brutal act. It is a crucial time to be sagacious. Also, mind you I am not as supporter of any political party.

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sid

Dec 17, 2014 02:17am

People should remember, who came to the rescue when 130 children were being slaughtered?... It wasn't the politicians or the judiciary... it was the Army. The only institution in Pakistan to deal with the problems the country faces head-on. Yet what do we do in return? Put their ex (respected) leader on trial with dubious charges and defame them in the Media.

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Dr. A. R Malik

Dec 17, 2014 02:27am

This day is the saddest day when the future of our country has been attacked these children were our hope and future and the guiding light in this darkness we live now. The entire nation and the world needs to get together as "HUMANS" regardless or race or religion and find these terrorists in their midst and eliminate them and their twisted ideas. The taliban and terrorists offer humanity nothing but destruction. THEY MUST BE ELIMINATED.

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Dec 17, 2014 03:12am

Right decision, but a bit late. IK should be paying attention to KP province rather than wasting time in disputing lives of every body.

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muhammad khurram mushtaq

Dec 17, 2014 04:43am

@AHMED dear friends imran khan and nawaz sharif you both should work hard for pakistan like malaysia dubai korea japan not for your own self do some thing to make pakistan great nation

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khan

Dec 17, 2014 04:59am

No Dharna or Plan against the Taliban?

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raza

Dec 17, 2014 06:38am

this is what happens when hatred is spread all over the Country. Ik is a master in that and had always a soft conner for the terrorists. Even recently he expressed that if he was in power he would have never allowed the Waziristan attacks by the Army. This is the man you follow on the streets this is the man you want to lead us. I think it is still time to think and let the reality sink in today he speaks of united where as he does not even know what that word means he only divides and provides opportunities for the terrorist as every one is focused on his wimps.

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santokhan

Dec 17, 2014 06:55am

Good I Reconciliation is the main clue for all

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Akhthar

Dec 17, 2014 07:03am

Had IK worked on security of the province and provided support to the IDP's, probably this wouldn't have happened..

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Akhthar

Dec 17, 2014 07:06am

@sid You have crazy. Because of the war on terror, Pakistan has come to this. Musharraf started the WOT, exported 1000's of Pakistani to prisons on Gaute & Afghanistan.

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Azmeen

Dec 17, 2014 07:10am

Thank you, IK for your temporary mercy on the national. Please stop your protests for 1-2 years and join hands with all other political parties to fight this war against terror, which has serious implications for the country survival.

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Majid

Dec 17, 2014 08:07am

@khan What about the government? You think they are free from this responsibility?

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Majid

Dec 17, 2014 08:13am

@SYED ZAFAR KAZMI Yup. . . and with this incident let's forget what the duty of this government is. Short term memory loss. . . that's the biggest distress of our nation. Now that an attack on a school in Peshawar has been made, most of our people would be suggesting Imran Khan to stop doing what he was doing - probably calling him wrong for his actions in the past. Who's to hold the government responsible for all that has happened in Pakistan all these years? Absolutely no one. Dead nation dies no more.

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Vic

Dec 17, 2014 08:34am

@Babar-Canada why not join forces with neighbours to destroy this common enemy? Why must Pakistan insist on going alone. Why not have joint ops with USA?

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Dr. Sadaf

Dec 17, 2014 09:28am

@ibrat , things would not have gone this far if his just demands were met in a mature manner. As for being a slave of his ego the same holds true for the other party also and if you call fighting for rule of law and adopting honesty in our day to day life is causing anarchy for you then it is time to revisit your thoughts.

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Bin Adam

Dec 17, 2014 09:33am

My heart goes with the bereaved parents and families. Imran Khan's calling off the shutdown protest of 18th December is appreciable. I hope that all the opposition and ruling political leaders will at least now understand that their long awaited unity is vital for an effective war against the gruesome terrorists, the worst enemies of peace and humanity. Under such a dire security threads all sorts of violent agitations, protests and shutdowns should be postponed till the terrorists threads are impending over the nation.

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KPK

Dec 17, 2014 11:47am

Who created Taliban?

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