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'Do not clash with the state': PM Khan issues stern warning to agitators after Aasia Bibi verdict
Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday issued a stark warning to religiopolitical groups that have been agitating against the Supreme Court verdict to acquit Aasia Bibi, a Christian woman sentenced to death on charges of committing blasphemy.
The premier addressed the matter in a short video message that solely focused on the Aasia Bibi verdict and its aftermath. The message was broadcast on state-run PTV.
He said he had been "compelled" to communicate with the nation due to the reaction given and language used by a "small segment" in response to the SC verdict.
Pakistan was founded "in the name of Islam" and the verdict given by the SC is in accordance with the Constitution, which is in line with the teachings of the Holy Quran and sunnah, he said.
He sharply criticised the protests that broke out, and are still underway, across the country in response to the judgement, saying people's livelihood was being harmed through the roadblocks and demonstrations.
Live blog: Protests erupt against Aasia Bibi's acquittal in different cities
The premier regretted the language used by hardliners against SC judges, the raising of questions against the army chief's faith and the call for a rebellion amongst the armed forces.
"It is my belief that the principles on which Pakistan was founded... if they are not adhered to Pakistan has no future.
"Our faith is incomplete if we don't love our Prophet [PBUH]," he said, and highlighted his government's efforts to fight blasphemous content.
"Which government can function when people say that kill the judges, rebel against the army chief?
"We are already facing such tough economic hurdles. My cabinet and I have yet to take a day off... we are struggling continuously to uplift the people [and] to improve the conditions of the underprivileged."
Referring to the protesters who have disrupted routine life across the country, he said: "If the Supreme Court does not issue a verdict according to their wishes, does that mean they will come out on the roads and paralyse the country?
"The people are to bear the brunt of this. The labourers who are reliant on daily wages... how will they feed their children?"
The prime minister urged the nation not to allow themselves to be "provoked" by the agitators.
"This is not a service being done for Islam. This is enmity taking place against the country," Khan observed.
In a stern warning to the extremist elements, the prime minister said: "I appeal to these elements... do not clash with the state.
"I appeal to you, don't harm this country in order to [increase your] vote bank.
"If you continue doing this... let me make it clear to you... the state will fulfil its duty [and] protect people's properties and lives.
"We will not allow any vandalism [or] blockage of traffic.
"I appeal to you... do not take the state to a point where it has no option but to take action," he concluded.
Prime Minister Khan's address comes as supporters of various religiopolitical groups burnt tires and blocked roads across various parts of the country in reaction to the SC verdict.
For hours the acquittal was met with near silence on the country's airwaves as broadcasters appeared to steer clear of covering the controversial topic.
One of the most vocal groups — the Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) — called for “mutiny” against the army's top brass and the assassination of the top court's justices.
Severe traffic jams ensued, causing great diffculty to commuters who reported being stuck on the roads for multiple hours.
The Punjab home department as well as the Sindh and Balochistan governments imposed Section 144 across the respective provinces citing "threats to the law and order situation, sectarian harmony and public peace". Paramilitary troops were deployed in Islamabad to prevent protesters from reaching the Supreme Court.
Meanwhile, the Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl has announced that it will hold countrywide protests on Friday in opposition to the SC ruling.
Twitter lauds PM's 'bold' speech
The reaction to Prime Minister Khan's address was overwhelmingly positive, with social media users describing it as "bold", "no-nonsense" and a "clear message".
Citizens appreciated the fact that Khan had addressed the issue directly and unambiguously.
However, lawyer and activist Jibran Nasir while appreciating the prime minister's address recalled that Khan had allegedly "fanned religious sentiments" during the TLP-led sit-in at Faizabad last year.
Michael Kugelman, a Pakistan expert at the Woodrow Wilson Centre for Scholars in Washington, remarked that Khan's speech "suggests that the state may finally be changing course in terms of how it deals with these dangerous and destabilising elements".
But although the speech marks a milestone for the country, action is more consequential than just talk, Kugelman cautioned.
Address timing
Special Assistant to PM on Media Iftikhar Durrani had earlier announced on Twitter that Khan would address the nation at 7:45pm today.
Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry had tweeted around 6pm that Khan would address the nation "shortly".
The information minister did not state what the prime minister is likely to talk about in his address.
Khan's anticipated address comes a day before he is scheduled to leave for China on an official visit. According to the Foreign Office, the prime minister will depart for China at midnight on November 1.
The premier has communicated with the people through televised addresses several times since his election to the top office. In his speeches, Khan has shed light on various issues of national importance.
His last address to the nation was on Wednesday last week, when Khan reassured the public regarding the steps taken by his government to tackle the economic hardships faced by the country.
Comments (289) Closed
Why? Is it because of the bibi case. If yes, it is shameful.
PM should request the protesters to be calmed and accept SC verdict. If Asia Bibi found not guilty then why is this protest.
too many of back to back addresses to the nation is. counter productive
All talk and no action makes jack a dull boy
Continuous communication is key for an effective framework. No matter which segment it should relate to...
The best thing is to communicate and take feed back and we appreciate that PM is doing this.
Everyone is out in the streets. They won't be home to watch television.
He will be very strict and fired-up against all those who are disrupting the public and causing road blocks
Imran Khan has overcome challenges in the past. He will surely provide a balanced approach to the issues of the nation. Hopefully the opposition will no try to be opportunist and flame the fires of protest in the country
@Harmony-1© just a correction. That's not how the proverb goes. Furthermore, communication is the key to success in any relationship. I don't think a man with the credentials of Imran Khan needs your approval.
@Khan. Actually I prefer he stays in touch with the nation as frequently as necessary. Taking us into confidence is good.
@Harmony-1©. Sounds like you.
Bravo PM Khan. What a brave response
@Khan andinc. You base this on?
Very good speech by PM Imran Khan. Those who are protesting willy nilly in particular JUI-F should know that this will not work out for them and any attempt to create law and order situation in country will be met with equal and opposite force. Those spreading lies and rumors about Pakistan must be caught and apprehended as the enemies of the state rather than making a religious excuse.
PM Imran Khan conveyed a very clear message to anti peace elements relating to SC's acquittal verdict. He also warned them not to take law in their own hands, as state will defend its citizens and their properties. We all have to honour courts decisions and follow the law of the country, no matter, who they are - a few hundred people will not be allowed to make silly comments against our army and judiciary, as this will have serious consequences for their masterminds and cronies.
State within state! All those who turned abusive must be arrested forthwith and be dealt as per laws of the land. I wish the daring devils will come their senses after Imran address unless they prefer to be their own enemies. Iqbal Hadi Zaidi
Better to communicate more than stay quite and make everyone fools
Now Khan need to act against these small segment. Not facilitate like Nawaz
PM Imran Khan is leading from the front. A very strong message that disrupters will not be allowed to set the agenda.
Well done. Leading nation as a leader. US President give Radio talk every week to keep nation updated.
Great address PM. It required a lot of courage to address such a sensitive issue and you have proved to be the one. I pray for your safety in an intolerant society. I hope with your wisdom and courage, you will be able to unite the nation and remove intolerance from the society.
@Khan
How exactly is it counter-productive?
Very bold speech Imran ! Keep it up
So why not take action and put these so called small segment behind bars and throw away the keys. Let's see what action our CJP takes?
@Khan which cave you live in. Communication is best way clear misunderstanding.
Previous governments remained mum on all issues, as they had no sincerirty. This is a group of sincere and clean leaders. But the only disadvantage they have is that they are inexperienced. Opposition will try to flare this situation. Very regretful.
Good decision. The address conveys the nation is united on this verdict
@Harmony-1©, what action & against whom do you want to be taken. As far as the running of the government is concerned steps are being taken to improve governance on a daily basis. The mess created by previous governments is being cleared. I am at a loss to understand your comment.
Effective, precise and timely address. The kind of moral booster that was needed to the nation and was warranted from a statesman like politician.
@Harmony-1© Anti IK agents have no concrete stuff to say
Great PM
@Harmony-1© And @khan
People like you can never be satisfied!
Be part of the solution... not the problem.
Makes sense
Serious issues need leadership and Imran Khan is performing well. Share the seriou issues with nation.
Why people have to take law in their own hands...who created this mind set ..need serious soul searching
@Khan get a life.
We need to crack down on these people, who block and and choke the whole country.
Yes you are the PM. Please no need to address again and again to remind us. We know that already!
Very Important message, thanks to connected and update the people of Pakistan.
Perfect address, to the point and message clearly delivered. We as a nation stand with you Mr. PM.
Brilliant speech. He works relentlessly and tears are flowing in my eyes looking at PMIK. PTI is the best. He should rule us for ever
Trouble makers should be dealt with by a iron hand. The courts should be respected as should the livelihood of others.
State with state! PM Imran should issue orders to arrest all those who turned abusive and or threatened after the SC verdict. They must face the wrath of the law and cannot be spared whatsoever. As a matter of fact they must have been arrested just after Imran address to be honest. How mullas and others even dared to awe the government alike? Iqbal Hadi Zaidi
IK is 100% right.
@Delta people like you will always support pti regardless of the realities on the ground.
@Khan you will never be Happy. Always negative thinking.
IK must tackle this situation with iron fist. Send all these lunatics to prison and establish the Gov writ. Naya Pakistan need peace and stability in country.
Imran khan is the best PM we had. We are lucky to have him on the top. If only liberals realize that.
@Delta good reply. These people are part of the problem
Listen to IK this is your last chance to stay as a nation.
@Harmony-1© What is the issue here ? How many have read the SC's Judgment ?
I may never understand why undesirable elements are allowed to hold the public hostage.
I highly appreciate IK's address to the nation. He has clearly spelt out the things for entire pakistan.
Good sound address by the PM
The Judiciary has to make a decision - let them be.
So happy to hear prime minister's statement. Greetings from Pakistan
@Khan You don't like the PM that communicates with the people? Switch off your TV. Pathetic!
This is good from IK. Surprised, to be honest. If only he could have been more precise instead of beating around the bush the message would have been received. Mere call for restraint doesn't cut it. Still much better than his predecessors.
Hopefully there will be no U-turn and nobody will be allowed to break law
Word
Great Job IK.
Pakistan Zindabad !!!!
He is doing the right thing people has to show maturity and support him if really want Pakistan to get out of trouble.
I hope PM will put an end to such agitation.
Once a leader, always a leader! Timely address.
@Delta "People like you can never be satisfied!" On the contrary, they WERE satisfied till now, but then PMLN got busted. They will be satisfied when PMLN is back.
@Harmony-1© - as usual, I find your comments negative and indicate your state of mind. I say to people like you, grow up, be impartial and do something positive for your family and country. Otherwise, take a back seat and have a rest!
@Harmony-1© what else does one expect a prime minister to do? Easy to type messages from a computer.
Well done Mr. Prime Minister. All the support to you.
For the first time I am impressed by your PM..... good luck to Pakistan..... from a well-wisher from India
Look whose talking
Ask for opposition support now.
whenever such fake custodian of Islam, #TPL, come out, such things happen in our country!
Well done Mr. Prime Minister.
Good clean and concise message. Stop hurting the nation for your petty personal gains, otherwise we will be compelled to take action according to the law to protect the rights of all citizens.
@Delta now he needs to follow through
@Delta There is no winning with some people.
For once, PM has done what a Pak PM needs and should do. He has stepped up and gotten in the line of fire for the betterment of the people Kudos to him, credit should go to him since NS or PPP people would never have come on TV and said what IK said...
Great Speech! Clear warning to the enemies of the country!
Time to take a stand. Do not bow down to these fanatics or they will strangle the nation. Respect from an admirer across the border.
Imran Khan's address to the nation against the destructive protests taking place because of the handful of miscreants, is timely. I as a Canadian of Pakistani origin feel happy.
A loud and clear message was the need of am hour...
well said, bravo
Good address. He has given a warning. In 2-3 days the state should take stern action.
khan well done. clear and concise message.
Khan on his way to make Pakistan grt
People should respect the Courts verdict. No one is above the law.
@Khan People like you don't want prosperity.
This speech declares this event a test between the forces behind this reaction and the government.
These fundamentals are the problem of the society and to the nation.
Why can’t these religious freaks can’t carry on their own lives.
@Harmony-1© Democracy is said to be the best amongst all the other forms of governments.
IK is not the best, he is better in comparison to others.
You need to support him.
I appreciate that he has taken a stand. A good one, that too.
Great speech!!! I hope he doesn't take U turn on this ...
Daring & to the point.
@Khan Have you ever done anything productive in your life? If so, list it for me
The big man in the big office. Well done PM Khan!
Good job Mr. Prime Minister!!!!
Perhaps it is the first time that I salute both SC and IK - former taking the JUST decision and IK for standing up for the state.
Very well said and sensible response!
Talk to them in the language they understand.
Bold and upfront statement. Good work PM. These agitators need to have legitimate employment instead of being on someone else's payroll
It was needed.No government can work if it's. Institutions are attacked.
Good speech with a clear message. A leader always talks to his/her pwople. Reminds me of Nelson mandela's speeches..!
Imran Khan is the first head of state after Mr. Jinnah who is sincere to this country and its people. He addresses the people because he talks from the heart. Putting an innocent woman to death under the garb of religion would have been the greatest tragedy. I salute our justices for putting out a historic verdict. They are indeed the brave sons of the soil.
Arrest those who take the law in their hands.
Supreme Court verdict is respected and accepted by all law abiding citizens of Pakistan. Anyone opposing the SC orders wants lawlessness which would harm the country, they could only be working for enemies of the country. No other country in the world would accept hooliganism and extremism. Therefore, PM Imran Khan's brief address is welcomed by all, that the rule of law is supreme and in the best interest of the country.
Great speech! I hope he doesn't take U turn...
Direct, to the point and stern. Well said PM
Congratulations to PM Imran Khan for taking a just and firm stand upholding the judiciary. This stand will give a lot of confidence to minorities in Pakistan and a stern warning to religious radical elements.
Sad to say why you sided with these people during faizaabad sit in
Brave man.
you think Nawaz, Zardari & Fazul Rahaman will let it go!! this is golden chance for them
A sincere respect from India!!!
I totally support PM to come on TV and make as many statements as he wants because this is his direct connection with public, just like Trump uses Twitter, Imran Khan can use whatever media he wants to keep in contact with his supporters and public, absolutely nothing wrong with this.
@Khan not all all when it's necessary to address the nation.
Same thing goes to Model Town incident...dont mess with state. Why PTI and PAT had been politicizing this when previous govt were say same.
Deep down Imran is a good guy.
Dharna founder talking about losses caused by disruptive protests. This is real tabdeeli or a massive u turn.
We are with you Mr PM. Deal the radicals with iron hand. Give them good beating so that forever no one dare to harm the peace and security of people
Why not arrest the leaders of the TLP for these threats? It is a criminal offence.
What about the 10 years she spent in prison on trumped up charges? Anybody being punished for that!
Very good, all agitators warned and if they continue, arrest them and throw hem in jail. Nobody should be allowed to disrupt law and order. All the leaders who make inciting speeches against the government should be arrested.
How about a back ground check on who are the biggest noise makers and their interests and sponsors.
Prime minister khan- this is the time to show your leadership. Use force to full strength and shut down the extremists......it will help to stabilise democracy and bring property.....
Good message by the PM. Violence with flimsy reasons should be dealt with strong hands.
Religious fanatics only understand only one language - root them out.
Good decision.
Like a Boss
Good response by the PM.
@Harmony-1© - write some sensible comments if you have some command on English. Thanks
@Harmony-1© @Khan -
Too much negative talk is also counter-productive and makes you dull.
@Delta very true....not helping the cause of making Pakistan prosper unfortunately... negativity should not prevail in our society...Not good for even a common citizen....
Bravo. Love you PM Imran Khan
This is how a prime minister should be.
Once again IK is using aggression. It will further complicate the issue and generate fire back responce. Being PM he should be very tactful and polite.
100% With you Honorable Prime Minister of Pakistan.
So happy to finally see our sister freed from frivolous cases.
Love to you Asia Bibi my Pakistani Sister.
Thank you Supreme Court for delivering Justice.
Pakistan Zindabad!
Brilliant speech. You are the Real Khan. Kindly put all these so called Mullahs behind the bars.
@Statesman tell that to road traffic.
People inciting violence MUST face the law of the land The state cannot allow such elements to roam free!
"We will not allow any vandalism [or] blockage of traffic. Well done, complete u-turn of how events actually played out
Excellent. Keep communicating PM no matter what people say. Keep hard hitting and pushing to religious bigots.
End this fantic mob's agenda with force if necessary.
Stand united. Show kindness towards minorities. Stay peaceful. Forgive each other.
well done Mr. PM
Well done Prime Minister!
Well spoken IK.If he acts on his words, his dream of Naya Pakistan will move closer to reality.
So a few years ago he encouraged these same zealots to destabilize the Government and now he’s saying the exact opposite thing.
Well said, Mr. Khan
IK has shown spine.Good sign to take Pakistan out on progressive way of thinking as CJP has taken a logical decision . Seeds were sown by Zia & now men in Uniform need to back IK in the changed world to silent the protesters as entire world is watching. She should be provided security by state in these tense times.
What were u doing in collaboration with PAT
Well done IK, don't listen to them. keep going
That's called a leader .Takes decision in crisis
I back Imran Khan in this matter; I appreciate Imran's statesmanship.
Excellent speech, brave leader.
First time a pm has stood up for the good of the nation.
Proud of PM.
Sabash Khan Saab...
Protesting is ok. Anyone raisses slogans against supreme court judges..army... lock them up ..treason..
@Khan on the contrary; it goes to show he loves to communicate with his people. I wont have it any other way!
Every word the PM said makes sense. Bigots and fanatics are out to destroy Pakistan, they must be stopped and the time is now. Long live Pakistan!
@Harmony-1© What he did is absolutely correct. He can't just put bunch of people in jail. That will incite more violence.
This is the time we need to Support IK fully, regardless of party affiliation.
Great job SC. Thank you!
Although PM's speech is to be appreciated, one cannot forget that he encouraged the change of government through mob mobilization, sit ins and road closures, not through parliament. He did set a very bad example.
We stand with the courts decision and Assistance This is the Stand I would support till the very end Mr Khan. Well done Better late than never
To the point. Well said. Totally with you IK.
Put these bigots away once and forever.Charge them with treason .
Well done PmKhan and the Supreme Court. Do not let the Uneducated win. They are Not the defenders of Islam! They are uneducated Bigots !
These so-called religious parties should be dealt with an iron fist, specially TLP.
@Delta excellent reply. Problem is that some people will know everything except knowing of about what they have to do why are they in this world. So their only job is to say bad to everything. Proud of my PM
@Harmony-1© Have some sense.
@Khan the most baseless and meaning less comment
@Delta Well said Delta. Salute
The wise are with you IK and the blind will open the eyes when enlightened
Very good. That is the way go. Finally some good news from Pakistan.
Bigots can move to India...not welcome here in Pakistan
Totally agree mr Khan.
I'm proud of our PM, finally welcome back Pakistan to the family of civilized nations! thanks IK.
I cannot agree more with Imran Khan. I believe he should deal sternly with religious extremism and proceed firmly against miscreants who are abusing religion. This is the moment when Imran Khan can transform from political leader to statesman.
Ask these Mullas, if they have any solutions, for the problems we are facing today as a nation.
Excelent address of PM Khan at the right time to disembark the country towards the 21st century. Should strictly monitor and modify all the seminaries of these radicalized elements in the state.
a best leader Pakistan had after Quaid.
Finally a leader is taking charge and responsibility for every citizen regardless of religion and status. It's Supreme Court decision we must learn to acknowledge.
Well done IK. In the past no one except the deceased Puinjab Governor had the courage to stand against these religious fanatics.
Rule of law must prevail.Any one using derogatory language against state institutions and challenging the writ of state must be handled with iron fist. Instead of a compromised and negotiated State,we want a responsible State.
We support Supreme Court and PM Khan.
Excellent address, much needed of the hour. To the point an courageous
Is this the same Imran Khan who supported TLP in Faizabad sitting?
@Khan he needed to pass the message loud and clear to the trouble makers and support his law and order team .
Great PM. Has the courage and determination.
what goes around comes around!
It is time for the state to take a very thorough and a stern action against these miscreants.
Thanks You, IK. It doesn't matter what we believe in and what are political views are but at this time we need to be one, support the state of Pakistan and it's people. There is no justification for this chaos and disrupting citizens lifestyle.
No blackmailing acceptable by any religious group.
@Khan. How?
I hope actions match his words. No one can disagree with what he has said. Perhaps a turning point on how these religious bigots are handled. The message has to be unambiguous if the nation is to progress.
@Khan Completely disagree, this is called keeping nation informed at every step.
Proud of Imran Khan.
This is what happens if you don't educate your people in the country.
Well done, Sir.
unless you crush these " goons" , their can't be a just society.
Khan Saab wipe out the extremists the nation is with you
Pakistan SC did the right thing by setting Asia free. whole world was watching.
great work by PM
It’s time to sort out the Molvis. If IK capitulates this time then we all will be in deep trouble.
A U-turn coming soon?
Look where the Mullas have taken the country to.
This is called leadership. Pakistan had long been held hostage by these so called defenders of Islam. Someone needed to step up and show the nation their true face.
Imran Khan is talking like Gaddafi
Your stand is bold, and you are in the right IK. Enough thuggery!
A very strict and harsh action must be taken to clamp such people, specially the top on the line, to completely wipe out the extremisim once for all. Law and order of the country must prevail.
hats off IK
Good to see IK and Pak moving in right direction. Now utmost priority of Govt should be make sure security of Asia Bibi as she is vulnerable to radical onslaught despite her acquittal. If anything happens to her Pakistan's image already under much suspicion will be damaged beyond repair. Better to deport her to a safe country.
Give respect to all religion.
Words of wisdom by IK Sahib.
PM cum Interior Minister should stand by his words. No more U turns please.
Last year IK supported TLP. Now enjoy the show!
Ik losing the charm!
IK getting a taste of his ow and prescription. Many of these must have voted for him.
Leading from the front, its time someone take a stand against these bigots. Great job PM IK.
Most of the time, in past, the government s never showed their response till a time when a lot of damage had been done but this time, at least he has shown their policy and that is right because that is their duty.
Proud of you Mr Imran Khan
He is still an aggressive Captain.
Today also it is going on. IK must take strong action now. Else in future no one will take him seriously.
@Doctor How about himself.. he has been doing all the same things during last 4~5 years
We love you Mr. PM of Pakistan - From India
Show no mercy ,these bigots would not let you breath.
TLP's is barberic and statements are bigotry. Should ban such groups.
Very welcome statement from IK.
The powerful words have to be translated into action as powerful when these elements take the law into the hands and perpetuate violence. No U-turn this time.
I love Imran Khan, but who ever gave the advice to address this situation on this stage damaged him. Prime Minister should have waited. Now there is oil on fire.
PM you have all the support from nation on this. These people are working only to take us to Stone Age. I wonder who is paying them for this. ARMY needs to take a strict action against them.
We standby IK & SC ... IK is spot on in this matter .... great leader
Be strong, a well educated PM. The country is with you. Stay with principles of humanity not be blinded with blind people. The whole world is with you and be a strong PM. Good luck:)
I must admit, this is the first time I am feeling that Pakistan should be admired for the PM's decision to face the extremists head on.
So proud of PM Khan. Asia bibi must go free. All mullahs should go hiding or law enforcement will find you if you make a scene out of it
Very timely، reasonable، prompt، to the point and effective speech by the Prime Minister Imran Khan of the Islamic republic of Pakistan۔
Tasting his own medicine he dished out when in opposition.
@Harmony-1© It’s actually all work and no play.
Time to heal, one human life has been saved, think of Aasia bibi as your own sister, or mother, or daughter, how would you feel, have empathy on your fellow human beings, do not bracket people into religion, race, colour etc, happiness to those who gives happiness to others.
@Asif He has no credenscial in politics or economy. Both are different ball game, than playing with ball.
First time a PM has openly spoken against these religious extremists and people still dont appreciate it.
Remembering dharna politics of yesterdays. Hope he now feels the pain for other leaders.
Bigots have no place in a civilised society. TLP is nothing more than a nuisance
Strong message by PM and timely one too. About time we took a stand against religious extremism.
The PM's comments are highly appreciated in the interest of the country...
Great judgement....good speech. It's the rightful but thorny path you have chosen. Good wishes from across the border.
For the first time in history of Pakistani we have a leader with steel nerves. Even Dictator Zia was afraid of these kind of fanatics.
I must admit the PM made a very positive address to the nation..His strength is his credibility , honesty and integrity. If his appeal prevails, that will be a heartening start of this regime.
Time has come that we choose between forces of tolerance and bigotry.
Back to back good news for Pakistan
Release of Asia Bibi and climbing of position in ease of doing business. A bonus point earned by taking strong stance by the PM against fundamentalists reminding them who is the boss.
Difficult time for IK as he was/is a great supporter of religious parties.
Decisive! A very clear and to the point message from the Prime Minister to the protesters agitating against the Supreme Court decision! Highly commendable message! The writ of the law must be enforced at all cost. The life and the property of the people must be protected. The roads must not be blocked to disrupt daily life of citizens busy in earning a living for their families. The alternative is chaos and anarchy that cannot be tolerated by any self-respecting nation.
Please dont make a u-turn now
Very well done IK!!!
From last five year he put wood stick inside the previous government, now it Captain time be ready brothers have wicket in hand.
I Would really like to know why my COMMENT was not APPROVED so better effort is done next time. Do email me if there is a person at the other end.
thank you
this is very wrong way to handle the situation. I understand that imran fears no one but that is not the time for this, right now we are trying to stabilize economy, operation against corruption is going on and much more. he should have at-least show some politeness on t.v.
I was a stern opposer of P.T.I and imran khan for acting as a lackey of establishment. But on this one, he has my support moral and if needs be physical too. If anyone tries to hinder the progress of country for thier own evil agendas, then as the chief executive of the country its the responsibility of imran khan to deal with them harshly without thought of reprucussions; nothing is important then the sanctity and peace of country.
Rehem must be exercised in lines with Islam...Where is your Rehenummah when you protest ?....
This is time for Pakistan to demonstrate to the world that the Govt is strong and just. Those who are inciting violence and challenging the writ of the state should be crushed ruthlessly.
The dilema is people who are protesting and causing bloackades do not use twitter. So all twitterbazi is falling on deaf ears.
Start arresting whoever breaks the law. All leaders inciting violence should be arrested and charged with terrorism. A strong hand is needed to end religious extremism.
The best thing IK has done yet - better than the World Cup !
Finally we have a PM who stand for ALL PAKISTANI and not for few like our past PMs.
Respect supreme court verdict and allow the nation to run as normal. Appreciate PM Imran khans clear statement.
Decisive! A very clear and to the point message from the Prime Minister to the protesters agitating against the Supreme Court decision! Highly commendable message! The writ of the law must be enforced at all cost. The life and the property of the people must be protected. The roads must not be blocked to disrupt daily life of citizens busy in earning a living for their families. The alternative is chaos and anarchy that cannot be tolerated by any self-respecting nation.
Outstanding job IK. We are lucky and proud to have you as our PM.
Excellent stand taken by PM Imran Khan! Appreciate his speech. Pakistan will progress only if its institutions are respected by the people.
No one is above the law. Everyone has to accept the decision of Supreme court.
Words need to be backed by action. Why don’t you lock the agitators and sloganeering against SC judges and chief of army staff? Mere statement or address to nation mean nothing without action on streets.
@Statesman, Where is the action? Did he lock them up who used treasonous words?
By now the law breakers should have been behind the bars.
Brave Speach went across the world. PM should be like this. IK you prove once again that you are a true leader. Excellent judgement from SC. Minorities will feel safe now. We in India feel proud with this judgement .congrats pakistant
Good speech by Imran Khan. I 110% support him. Now what is he waiting for, move against those who are violating the law and encouraging violence against the state and the judges.
@Khan , "too many of back to back addresses to the nation is. counter productive" I totally disagree. In a time of a major national crisis, when certain religious leaders are openly inciting us to commit violence against Supreme Court judges, conduct mutiny in the armed forces, and create havoc in Pakistan, we need to hear from the PM himself.
@MONIER, "Hopefully the opposition will no try to be opportunist and flame the fires of protest in the country" PPP has lost a governor to those idiots, did you really expect them to "flame the fires of protest"? Ergo, Bilawal's statement. PML-N could be opportunist, but given their progressive steps like the Salam Physics Center naming, they may just opt for studied silence. The irony of it all - IK in power is at least acting sensible, doing the right things and not a bit wavering and opportunist in the face of blackmail, who can forget the erstwhile Taliban Khan avatar? (and neck-deep in antipathy toward IMF, USA and others). Maybe, they are just not convinced that a Barelvi TLP may not blink first as compared to the other virulent strains..
Hats off to Supreme Court of Pakistan's Judges who gave a brave decision to release the innocent woman of minority group of Pakistan as it will give them a confidence to live in Pakistan.The agitators who disagree with the verdict of Supreme Court of Pakistan be sent behind the bar as no one is above the law. Law is supreme which must be safe guarded at any cost. We support Imran Khan 's vision.(Texas )
The problem with Pakistan is that more than 70 percent of the population is illiterate. Eradicate illiteracy and extremism and thes things would never happen in a million years.
@Salman Ahmad, Even the Supreme Court is not above the law. Don't you know what has been going on behind the scene...
I like the speech..... But just thinking about the past, What the PM did himself when he was not in the Government. Why on the surface of this earth he can appeal. What happened to him when he himself was doing the same against other Government. We also know that in the past government the economic conditions were far better than today. Just because of him we are suffering economically today.
It was the same state to which you clashed, attacked PTV, Police, shredded bills in defiance, it is same happening no any difference Imran khan sab
Ironic, lacks insight, coming from this fellow. Too funny, hilarious. Lmao!
The nation is with their Prime Minister.
So far empty threat from Imran Khan. Why no action taken, it’s third day of violence already
HE is the biggest hypocrite he talked about poor being impacted by Dharna did he forget what he did in ISLAMABAD with Tahirul QADRI
Time to have regulations at Madrassas to avoid inducing extremism.
where is the action?
@Doctor , REALLY!
I am impressed with his speech. If he thinks this clearly and worries like this to uplift the country, he may actually end up doing something good. He has to stop hardliners from dragging the country to 18th century.
@Khan , Nawab Agha, Livingston, nj USA PM reaction is right. People should not take law in their hand. Accept the judgement and be cevilized.