ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has formally distanced itself from social media accounts involved in trolling and abusive campaigns against security forces following recent terrorist incidents in Balochistan.
According to a report, PTI Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram said there is no ambiguity in the party’s position, adding that those criticizing security personnel martyred in anti-terror operations do not represent the party.
He said that under the party founder’s stated policy, the military belongs to the nation and plays a vital role in Pakistan’s survival. Attempts to mock or undermine the sacrifices of security institutions are unacceptable, he added.
However, party sources told local media that despite the official stance, the PTI leadership is concerned about the growing influence of independent social media activists associated with the party’s online narrative.
Sources claimed that much of the party’s social media activity is operated from overseas and is not directly controlled by the chairman, the information secretary, or even the political committee.
The statement comes days after coordinated militant attacks were reported across multiple districts of Balochistan. Security forces launched operations in response to the violence.
Speaking in the National Assembly, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said 17 security personnel and 33 civilians were killed in the attacks. He stated that the state would not negotiate with militants and would respond with full force.