- The COAS strongly opposes the tragic event in Jaranwala.
- All citizens are equal, no matter religion, gender, or background.
- The COAS speaks to ISPR interns about these concerns.
In a decisive stance against the recent Jaranwala incident, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir denounced the violence as “extremely tragic and totally intolerable,” emphasizing that acts of intolerance and extreme behavior have no place in society.
During an address to interns participating in the yearly Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Internship Programme, General Munir expressed his concerns about the disturbing event where a mob vandalized churches and homes of Christians in response to allegations of blasphemy.
The rampage occurred in a predominantly Christian area on the outskirts of Faisalabad after rumors circulated about the desecration of the Holy Quran. Responding to a question posed by one of the participants, the COAS conveyed, “Jaranwala incident is extremely tragic and totally intolerable. There is no space for such incidents of intolerance and extreme behavior by any segment of the society against anyone, particularly against minorities.”
General Munir stressed the principle that all citizens are equal, regardless of their religion, gender, caste, or creed. He assured that lawlessness would not be permitted, and those responsible for such crimes would be held accountable before the court of justice.
In his broader address, Gen Munir accentuated the pivotal role that the youth play in national development. He underscored the significance of Pakistani youth as the cornerstone for the nation’s peace, progress, and prosperity. Simultaneously, he drew attention to efforts by hostile forces aiming to sow division, intolerance, mistrust, and violence among the populace to incite chaos and instability.
“It’s imperative for the youth to differentiate between truth, half-truths, lies, misinformation, and disinformation,” the army chief underscored, encouraging young individuals to cultivate a discerning and critical mindset.
As the address concluded, General Munir commended the young interns for successfully completing the ISPR Internship Programme. The COAS’s firm stand against intolerance and violence resonated with the interns, emphasizing the importance of fostering a harmonious and inclusive society.
Read more: Church Vandalism Triggers ‘High-Level’ Inquiry in Faisalabad, Punjab
The Jaranwala incident underscores the urgency to address social issues and promote harmony in the diverse fabric of Pakistani society. General Munir’s resolute stance against intolerance and his support for the youth’s positive contributions echo the need for collective efforts to build a cohesive and peaceful nation that respects the rights and dignity of all its citizens.
