NSC decides to observe May 9 as 'black day', endorses trial of rioters under Army Act
Pakistan
The NSC moot also paid heartfelt tributes to martyrs
ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) - An important meeting of the National Security Committee (NSC) on Tuesday decided to observe May 9 as "black day" nationally.
The forum also decided to lay hands within 72 hours on all those involved in the violent attacks, their facilitators, and leaders on whose instigation these people had committed vandalism.
The meeting, chaired by PM Shehbaz and attended by federal ministers, military leadership including the Chief of Army Staff Gen Asim Munir, officials of intelligence agencies, and chief ministers, was convened at the Prime Minister's House.
During the meeting, heartfelt tributes were paid to the martyrs who bravely sacrificed their lives for the nation. Additionally, the security forces were commended for their successful anti-terrorism efforts and covert operations across the country.
The meeting focused on a briefing provided by intelligence agencies regarding the recent events that unfolded on May 9. It was revealed that acts of vandalism had taken place, resulting in damage to public and private properties.
Disturbingly, photographs of martyrs were desecrated, memorials were defaced, historical buildings were set ablaze, and military installations were subjected to vandalism. The briefing also indicated a deliberate plan to orchestrate arsons.
The government, security forces, and intelligence agencies were determined to take swift action against the perpetrators responsible for these acts and maintain law and order in the country.
PM Shehbaz's address
Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif expressed his determination to ensure that the culprits responsible for the events of May 9 face appropriate punishment, emphasising that such a devastating incident should never recur.
Chairing the meeting, he referred to May 9 as a black day in Pakistan's history. He said the events that unfolded on May 9 had left an indelible mark on the nation, plunging millions of Pakistanis into deep sorrow.
The PM lamented that attempts were made to desecrate symbols of great honor for the country, leading to widespread grief and outrage among the populace. He specifically highlighted the burning of Jinnah House, which housed the protectors of Pakistan, and condemned this act as an attack on the nation's pride.
جس نے بھی جرم کیا اسکے بچ نکلنے کا سوال ہی پیدا نہیں ہوتا، جنہوں نے بلوائیوں کو اکسایا، لیڈ کیا، شہیدوں اور غازیوں کی بےحرمتی کی وہ کسی رعائیت کے قابل نہیں۔
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) May 16, 2023
~ وزیراعظم شہباز شریف کا قومی سلامتی کمیٹی کے اجلاس سے خطاب pic.twitter.com/fr3ulJeDpN
During the meeting, the premier also drew attention to the targeting of significant installations, including the General Headquarters (GHQ) and Mianwali Airbase. Additionally, he highlighted the destruction of FC School, stressing that such grave incidents occurring over the course of 75 years demanded a comprehensive review and unwavering commitment to addressing the situation.
Expressing strong condemnation, the chief executive denounced the individuals who planned and instigated the riots, asserting that they should not receive any leniency. He further stated that the vandalization of the statues of martyrs was deeply distressing and pledged to ensure swift action by making arrests and registering cases within 72 hours.
PM Shehbaz reassured the public that only the guilty would face punishment, while innocent individuals would be safeguarded.
He also underscored the gravity of the situation, emphasising that the protestors affiliated with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) had achieved what even Pakistan's eternal enemy had failed to do.
The premier acknowledged the sacrifices made by the brave soldiers in the 1965 war, Zarb-e-Azb, and in maintaining peace and order, and lamented the desecration of symbols of martyrs and ghazis.
