A reckless statement by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has landed Pakistan in fresh trouble. His controversial remarks have now become a weapon in India’s hands at the global level. The Indian government has submitted his comments to the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) as evidence against Pakistan.
According to FATF officials, New Delhi formally presented Gandapur’s statement to support its long-standing accusation that Pakistan shelters and supports terrorist networks. India is now lobbying to get Pakistan back on the FATF grey list.
The controversial comment came when Gandapur said, “We arrest the Taliban, but our own institutions get them released, claiming they are their people.” This irresponsible claim, made publicly, has backfired badly. It has now been labeled a “charge sheet” by India.
The FATF confirmed that India highlighted this statement as proof that Pakistan’s own officials and institutions protect extremist elements. They specifically emphasized that Gandapur’s words reflect the mindset of a province deeply affected by militancy.
India has argued that a sitting chief minister admitting this publicly confirms what they have claimed for years—that Pakistan is not serious about cutting off support to terrorism. This gives India an upper hand in global diplomatic circles.
Pakistan was removed from the FATF grey list in 2022 after four long years. That decision improved the country’s global image and gave relief to its struggling economy. It helped Pakistan regain credibility among international lenders.
But now, thanks to Gandapur’s irresponsible remarks, all of that progress is at risk. The FATF grey list brings more than just embarrassment. It means tighter financial monitoring, reduced investor confidence, and potential sanctions.
FATF officials said India’s latest submission has revived the debate on whether Pakistan should again be placed under increased monitoring. If that happens, the damage to Pakistan’s international standing will be severe.
Gandapur’s careless words have handed India an opportunity it was looking for. At a time when Pakistan is already under economic stress, such blunders are not just foolish—they’re dangerous.
Ali Amin Gandapur may have spoken without thinking, but the consequences are now very real. And they could push Pakistan right back into the FATF grey list—a place the country fought hard to escape.
