Pakistani Interior Minister Imposes Ban on Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM)

Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has announced a ban on the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM), stating that any actions taken against the banned organization will be in accordance with the law. In a press conference in Islamabad, the minister warned that anyone supporting the PTM will also face consequences, including freezing bank accounts and blocking national identification cards.

Naqvi expressed concerns over large gatherings, questioning the meaning behind thousands participating, and emphasized that such assemblies should not be termed as traditional “jirgas.” He asserted that parallel courts will not be permitted under any circumstances.

The minister explained that the ban on PTM was due to their derogatory remarks against state institutions, calls to arms, and anti-state rhetoric. He mentioned that leaders from a couple of major parties had previously met with PTM representatives, advising them that while they supported their rights, they would not endorse violence against the state. Following these discussions, PTM members ceased further contact with those leaders.

As a result of the ban, Naqvi stated that PTM offices will be closed, travel restrictions will be imposed, and bank accounts will be frozen. He warned that anyone providing assistance to the PTM will face similar actions as those directed at banned organizations and their activists.

Furthermore, he revealed that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has included 54 individuals associated with the PTM in the Fourth Schedule, which lists individuals involved in activities against the state.

Naqvi alleged that the PTM’s recent three-day program was orchestrated from abroad, with documents provided by foreign sponsors. He sent a message to these backers, stating that their actions will not go unnoticed.

When questioned about Ali Amin Gandapur during the press conference, Naqvi redirected the inquiry, asking why Gandapur had not appeared at the D-Chowk rally organized by the PTI (Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf). He highlighted the deteriorating law and order situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, urging both Gandapur and the provincial government to focus on improving security in the region.