Tarar recalls PM’s Kakul address, reiterates stance on Pahalgam false flag operation

Staff Report

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar on Saturday recalled Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s address at the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Kakul delivered one year ago, and reiterated Pakistan’s consistent position on the Pahalgam false flag operation, emphasizing the country’s commitment to counter-terrorism, regional stability and a transparent, impartial investigation into the episode.

He was speaking to media on the key points of the national stance regarding the Prime Minister’s historic address delivered one year ago at Pakistan Military Academy and the Pahalgam false flag operation.

The minister said that the prime minister, while speaking to cadets at PMA Kakul on April 26, 2025, had clearly articulated Pakistan’s stance on the Pahalgam incident, rejecting baseless allegations and calling for an end to the blame game associated with such events.

He recalled that a meeting of the National Security Committee held on April 24 last year had also given a comprehensive response to the allegations, followed by the prime minister’s visit to Kakul where he delivered a historic address responding to the Pahalgam false flag operation.

Tarar said the prime minister had termed the Pahalgam incident a “tragedy” and expressed sympathy with the victims, while conveying Pakistan’s concern and sorrow at the international level. “The prime minister made it clear that the recurring pattern of baseless accusations under the cover of such incidents must stop,” he added.

Contrasting Pakistan’s position with that of India, the minister said Pakistan had consistently condemned terrorism and remained engaged in combating the menace, whereas, he said India had failed to adopt a clear stance in this regard.

He said the distinction between a country fighting terrorism and on of promoting it had become evident before the international community.

Highlighting Pakistan’s sacrifices, Tarar said the country had suffered economic losses amounting to around 600 billion and over 90,000 lives had been lost, including personnel of the armed forces, police, law enforcement agencies and civilians. “Pakistan has been a frontline state against terrorism and continues to deploy all its energies to eliminate this menace,” he said.

Referring to militant groups, the minister said that elements such as the Fitna al- Hindustan (BLA) and Fitna al-Khawarij (TTP) had linkages that traced back to India, and Indian-sponsored terrorism.

He said that when allegations were leveled against Pakistan after the Pahalgam incident, the prime minister, accompanied by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, visited Kakul and reiterated Pakistan’s position, again describing the incident as a tragedy and stressing the need to end the ongoing blame game.

Tarar said the prime minister had also proposed a “transparent and impartial investigation” into the incident, which, he added, reflected Pakistan’s confidence in its stance. “This offer strengthened Pakistan’s position at the diplomatic front and shifted the focus internationally,” he said.

He noted that India did not respond to the proposal, adding that Pakistan’s call for an independent probe was widely appreciated at the international level and contributed to strengthening its diplomatic standing.

The minister further said the prime minister, in his address, had also highlighted Pakistan’s consistent policy on broader issues, including “water security concerns,” stressing that water remained a “red line” for Pakistan.

He warned that any attempt to obstruct or divert Pakistan’s water in violation of the Indus Waters Treaty would be responded to decisively.

Tarar said the Kakul address held significant importance in Pakistan’s recent history, as it not only clarified the country’s position on the Pahalgam incident but also reinforced its broader policy framework.

He said Pakistan’s institutional strength and unity were demonstrated during that period, with the armed forces remaining fully prepared to defend the country.

He expressed confidence in the capabilities of the armed forces under the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, stating that they were capable of responding effectively to any misadventure.

He also referred to Pakistan’s response in Marka-e-Haq “battle for truth,” saying the country had demonstrated its defensive capabilities.

The minister said the prime minister had reaffirmed that the Pakistani nation would not compromise on its sovereignty, dignity and honour, and that the country’s position had gained recognition internationally.

He added that Pakistan had maintained a clear and consistent policy against terrorism, while continuing efforts to promote peace and stability in the region. “Truth prevails, and Pakistan’s stance has been vindicated at the global level,” he said.

Tarar concluded by saying that the address delivered at PMA Kakul laid the foundation for a sustained diplomatic and strategic narrative, which, he said, had contributed to enhancing Pakistan’s standing internationally, including among overseas Pakistanis.

He said the unity of the nation and the resolve of its institutions would continue to guide Pakistan in addressing challenges and safeguarding its interests.