ISLAMABAD: Federal Information Minister Ataullah Tarar has alleged that Bushra Bibi, the wife of PTI founder Imran Khan, intended to provoke violence during recent protests, but PTI leaders fled the scene fearing ar-rest.
Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, Tarar criticised the party for spreading baseless claims of casualties to bolster their political narrative.
“They brought modern weapons, teargas shells, and slingshots, attacked police, and then claimed people were killed,” he said.
“No evidence supports these claims, and hospitals confirm no bodies were brought in. This is yet an-other attempt by PTI to seek political mileage.”
The minister revealed that 37 Afghan nationals and several individuals with criminal backgrounds were arrested during the protests.
Authorities also confiscated 45 firearms, grenades, and teargas guns allegedly used to incite chaos.
Tarar dismissed PTI’s narrative as “lies and fabrication,” adding, “This is the only political party that ac-tively seeks casualties to declare martyrdom. If they claim lives were lost, they must provide proof, such as post-mortem reports.”
The minister accused PTI of aiming to disrupt national stability, intending to cancel Belarus’s presi-dent’s visit to the country.
“This was a calculated attempt to harm Pakistan’s economy and tarnish its image internationally,” he stated.
Tarar also criticised PTI leaders for abandoning their workers, singling out Ali Amin Gandapur.
“This is the second time he has fled, leaving his supporters behind. He should never wear a turban again,” he remarked.
Commenting on the party’s alleged dependence on external support, Tarar said, “Even PTI’s 126-day sit-in succeeded only because of backing from the establishment at the time. Without it, they lack the competence and political strength to sustain movements.”
The minister concluded by declaring that PTI’s protests, strategies, and rhetoric have failed. “This polit-ical movement stands exposed. Lies, hypocrisy, and violence have been rejected by the people,” he said. –Agencies
