KARACHI: The nation yesterday voiced strong protest against the military build-up of India by Western Powers, particularly the USA and the UK.

All over Pakistan rallies and protest meetings were held to express popular resentment.

In Karachi, complete hartal was observed, protest demonstrations staged and a huge procession taken out. At one stage, the DIG, Mian Bashir Ahmed, addressed the procession and asked the processionists to be peaceful. At the public meeting, speakers urged upon the Government to quit all military pacts as they have proved “futile” for the safety and solidarity of Pakistan. A resolution demanding that Pakistan should leave the CENTO and SEATO was adopted.

The Government was asked in the same resolution to allow the citizens of Pakistan to start “Jehad” to liberate occupied Kashmir.

In Dacca yesterday, the citizens held similar protest rallies and observed complete hartal to mark their deep sense of anger and resentment.

A citizens’ delegation in Peshawar waited upon the American Consul-General and the British Deputy High Commissioner to register a strongly worded protest.

The Baluchi tribesmen of Quetta and Kalat in their respective jirgas expressed indignation over massive arms aid to India and demanded a review of Pakistan’s foreign policy in view of what they said was “danger to the very existence of Pakistan”.—Staff Correspondent