Rawalpindi – Lt. General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, Director General of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), reaffirmed that the Pakistan Army remains a national institution with no political agenda. Speaking during a media briefing here on Thursday, he emphasized that the public’s trust in state institutions is the army’s most valuable asset and that national security will not be compromised under any circumstances. He stressed that the military does not oppose or support any political party.
Lt. General Chaudhry said that if any individual within the army pursues personal interests or advances specific agendas, the system immediately takes action. “The Pakistan Army believes in accountability,” he said, highlighting the comprehensive nature of this process. He mentioned a recent high-level Court of Inquiry, initiated in April 2024, regarding the Top City case involving retired Lt. General Faiz Hameed.
He further explained that according to military law, if anyone under the Army Act is used for political purposes, the law will take its course, regardless of the individual’s rank or position. In the Faiz Hameed case, action will be taken against anyone found involved.
Regarding military justice, he stated that anyone facing court martial has the right to present evidence and appeal. Referring to the allegations against the retired officer, he said the accusations were related to exceeding limits at the behest of certain political elements.
“Over 130 operations are conducted daily, and 90 terrorists have been eliminated in the last month,”
In addressing the fight against terrorism, Lt. General Chaudhry lauded the sacrifices of the armed forces and their families, affirming that the battle against terrorism will continue until the last extremist is eliminated. “Over 130 operations are conducted daily, and 90 terrorists have been eliminated in the last month,” he shared.
Commenting on recent terrorist incidents in Balochistan, he acknowledged the sense of deprivation in the region but clarified that those involved in terrorist activities have no connection to Islam or Balochistan. He assured that the army would deal with terrorists and their facilitators with an iron hand, emphasizing that the fight against terrorism is part of a coordinated strategy.
“There are no “no-go areas” left in Pakistan”
Mr. Chaudhry asserted that there are no “no-go areas” left in Pakistan, as the army and law enforcement agencies have cleared 46,000 square kilometers of territory from terrorist control. The army continues to cooperate closely with local administrations to ensure stability.
In response to external threats, he dismissed efforts to create misunderstandings between Pakistan and Afghanistan, stating that Pakistan has always supported its neighbor. He added that the extremists have no connection to Islam or tribal values.
The DG ISPR also highlighted the army’s contributions to the national economy, noting that the military has paid PKR 100 billion in duties and taxes and reduced its defense expenditures. He emphasized that a strong administrative structure is essential for economic development, revealing that the army and its institutions have contributed PKR 360 billion in taxes.
He concluded by addressing ongoing propaganda against the military, particularly in areas where development work under “Build and Transfer” projects has stalled. He stated that the army’s role in operations has increased due to delays in these projects and that baseless propaganda has arisen as a result.
