All are not Cooks that Walk with Long Knives

There are very few genuine intelligence operators like Sinjeevi Pillai, R N Kao and B Raman, exist in the Indian intelligence history. It’s usually said that a name not known much in the intelligence world is in fact the best name. The concept of a thrilling spy hero, the one like James Bond 007 is restricted to the showbiz world only. The Indian intelligence world was not known to the world prior to 1965. The two consecutive setbacks of 1962 on China front and of 1965 on Pakistan front gave a big jolt to the Indian policy makers and they seriously started thinking of forming up a strong national and international intelligence network.

Ironically the Indians started thinking of selling the skin before they could catch the bear. Instead of visualizing and developing a purely professional intelligence agency the Indian planners started working on the neighbours and especially Pakistan oriented intelligence set-up. The result was obvious. Those who claim that the intelligence world is devoid of ethics are wrong. In intelligence operations the enemies are silent and unknown (not to each other) hence when the world see someone dying in an accident or suffocated in a hotel room, considers it an innocent’s death. The spy world is a world of unknown enemies, unknown killers, unknown targets and unfortunately unsung heroes. The Indian intelligence agencies and especially RAW is infamous for unethical operations. It has many notorious operations at her credit and unfortunately mostly the operations are Pakistan leaning. Hence in a way, the Indian intelligence mafia has restricted its aim and objectives, without realizing that their operating the intelligence networks on vindictive lines has ranked them low among the world intelligence agencies. Their role is more of a ‘Phupho’ (aunty) who is known for fueling the family feuds through her sick politics and intriguing conspiracies.

The exploits of true spies are often fantasized by Hollywood and quite often ride the line between completely mindboggling and just barely possible. Of course, they are probably not running along the outsides of high rise buildings and paragliding into jungles but they do work as undercover diplomats, engineers, and lay people. They risk their lives in both war and peace, sometimes for a noble cause and sometimes for nothing more than the highest bidder. They enter the shady underworld of espionage. The new Indian national security adviser, who has been gradually promoted and painted as one such dreamy spy master is by no way a match to Klaus Fuchs or Aldrich Ames of Soviet Union, Major John André of UK, Sidney Reilly of Scotland Yard or Mata Hari; the sexiest all time favourite German dancer and prostitute but still due to some vested interests and suspicious reasons the gentleman is being portrayed as a classic spy, ‘coming out of the cold’.

The appointment of Ajit Doval as India's fifth National Security Adviser or NSA was never suspicious once Narendra Modi swept to power and took office as Prime Minister. Ajit Doval, who is 69, retired as Director Intelligence Bureau in January 2005 and for the past nine years, he headed a think tank known to be close to the BJP but more importantly one that is doing significant work on critical issues in the area of comprehensive national security’ until he was personally picked as the NSA by Modi in 2014. The gentleman is known for stabbing the Sikhs in the back during the notorious Golden Temple operation, posing as their well wisher. If the operation is tracked down and investigated to the minute level, it may lead to his connections with a large number of Pakistani politicians, businessmen and so-called flag-bearers of freedom of speech in Pakistan. Doval’s hands are soaked with the Sikhs blood since he was the one who walked into the besieged Golden Temple in Amritsar posing as a Pakistani agent months before the 1988 Operation Black Thunder, when militancy was at its peak in Punjab, and obtained vital intelligence on the militants holed up inside. 

The gentleman; a 1968 batch IPS Officer of the Kerala cadre, quite often publicly brags that he did a high-risk, high-reward assignment of any intelligence officer's career during his tour of duty in Pakistan and for that and some of his other ‘achievements’ in Kashmir, Mizoram and elsewhere he received India's second highest gallantry award, the Kirti Chakra. Nevertheless, his stay in Pakistan for seven years as he often claims is quite debatable. It’s not clear whether Doval worked under some cover appointment or he was launched as an agent? As we know that the truth is never an ingredient of the spy operations and everything is under cover hence it’s a mystery to be solved that in case he was Indian High Commission employee then how could he visit public places so frequently without being unnoted especially coming all the way from Islamabad, as its know to all and sundries that India has just one High Commission in Islamabad and a Counsel General in Karachi to facilitate the visa seekers. Only James Bond can elude his tail and that only in the Hollywood thrillers while coming from Islamabad to Lahore, quite frequently. Now in other case if he penetrated as an agent – remember that he is a 1968 cadre government servant – then how come in the presence of blood thirsty Pakistani intelligence agencies, he could abode in Lahore for almost seven years as he claims? The consequences of a penetration in another country by a government employee are well known to all. Interestingly he remained undercover for seven years and yet forgot the name of shrine (Data Durbar) from where he had his three times meal. It sounds more of blowing one’s own trumpet for the reason best known to Doval.

There are a large number of Hindus who sincerely want to destroy Pakistan – there always were and there always will be – that is the sad reality. But Doval’s case is a bit different. He has the knowhow, the expertise, and most importantly, now he has the resources and power to inflict damage upon not only the people of Pakistan, but also countless, defenceless Indian minorities. And he has the history of doing it before. His early years were spent fighting against the Mizo National Front (MNF) insurgency in Assam and during the same time he also operated within Chinese sovereign territory 9as he claims), staging terrorist attacks against the Chinese government, leading to civilian deaths in the process (Point to note that he is on Chinese hit list as well). One of his professional colleague told media that his main motivation was not strictly professional but stemmed from a deep hatred of anyone and anything non-Hindu which he professed as a threat to his notion of Hinduism – a misguided notion of the religion which is advocated today by ultra-right-wing Hindu fascist organizations such as the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and to which the new PM of India, Narendra Modi also ascribes to.

“In one of his many anti-Pakistan papers titled ‘Internal Security — Need for Course Correction’, he wrote that, “the Indian security establishment has become lax in its attitude towards Pakistan…Indian foreign policy must re-gear itself to go on the offensive against its enemy Pakistan by funding, arming, training and directing non-state actors to wage a campaign of chaos within Pakistan by exacerbating existing sectarian and ethnic differences through violence…India will never be secure until Pakistan is destroyed, China is silenced, and Muslim and Sikh anti-state groups in India are forever extinguished”.

With such blatantly fascist and racist views Ajit Kumar Doval now joins a growing number of anti-Pakistan campaigners in the new BJP government. This should be enough for the world to open her eyes and take notice. If Doval and his goons with their Nazi attitude have their way, they will unleash a gush of miseries upon the guiltless people of the Subcontinent, irrespective of their religion or castes. It’s high time for Pakistan’s government and its security establishment must be on their guard to keep a constant check on the aggressive designs of another budding Nazi party, though this time in the Subcontinent.

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May 28: Pakistan Became Nuclear Power

                                         

By Sajjad Shaukat

With national zeal and fervour in different parts of the country, Youm-e-Takbeer (The day of greatness) is celebrated every year on May 28 as a national day to mark the conduction of nuclear tests when on the very day in 1998; Pakistan became the first Muslim and the 7th nuclear power in the world.

While showing aggressive designs, on May 11, 1998, the then Indian Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee surprised the international community by announcing that India has conducted 3 nuclear tests earlier that day. On May 13, 1998, India conducted two more nuclear tests.

However, both the neighboring countries have waged three wars, especially on the issue of the Indian occupied Kashmir, so Pakistan’s arch rival compelled Islamabad to follow the suit. In this regard, it took only 17 days for Pakistan to successfully carry out its five nuclear tests which were done on May 28 and the sixth one on May 1998, at Chaghi in Balochistan in response to five nuclear explosions detonated by India, threatening the security of Pakistan. For the purpose, about five thousands scientists including Dr Samarmand Mubarik and especially Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan had worked day and night and made the defence of the country impregnable.

As regards Pakistan’s atomic experiments, renowned journalist, Majid Nizami said, “Pakistan faced tremendous pressure from India after it detonated five nuclear devices and America in this scenario also did not want Pakistan to become a nuclear power. US President Clinton telephoned the Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif five times besides offering him billions of dollars to refrain him from nuclear tests. In this perspective, he further stated, Nawaz was receiving opinion from different sections of society, and in the same connection, he also convened a meeting of the editors wherein he (Majid Nizami) also gave the input.”

New Delhi’s war-mongering strategy against Pakistan could be judged from the fact that in 1974 India conducted first nuclear test at Pokhran Range in Rajhistan so as to pressurise Islamabad.

It is mentionable that when ZulfikarAli Bhutto, (The late) came to power, he paid much attention to the nuclear programme of Pakistan, as he knew that India would apply its coercive diplomacy on Islamabad or could attack our country. In this context, while talking on a TV channel on May 28, 2012, Pakistani nuclear scientist Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan appreciated the efforts of former Prime Minister Shaheed ZulfikarAli Bhutto for providing the opportunity to make the nuclear programme of Pakistan successful.

He also made it clear that Pakistan’s nuclear programme was totally indigenous, but acquired materials from some Western countries.

During many crises such as Kargil issue of 1999 and attack on the Indian parliament by the militants in 2001, New Delhi concentrated its troops across the Pakistan’s border, with the intention to attack Pakistan, while raising a series of false allegations against Islamabad. Pakistan was also compelled to deploy its Army along the Pak-India border. But, India did not dare to initiate a war because of Pakistan’s ‘Nukes.’ Similarly, in the past, Indian rulers had intended to implement their doctrine of limited war in Kashmir, but they could not do so owing to our nuclear weapons.

Particularly, in the aftermath of Mumbai terror attacks of 2008, India accused Pakistan’s spy agency, Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) of supporting the militants. Although Pak diplomats denied Indian self-fabricated story regarding Mumbai catastrophe, but New Delhi adopted a threatening posture against Islamabad. It one again deployed its troops across the Pakistani border. Again, Islamabad also concentrated its military in order to give a matching response to India.

Notably, when US special forces killed Osama Bin Laden in Pakistan on May 2, 2011 in violation of Pak sovereignty—though Islamabad had repeatedly made it clear that its government and intelligence agencies did not know anything about Bin Laden’s whereabouts including any official involvement regarding the 26/11 Mumbai catastrophe, but, New Delhi continued its aggressive style which could be judged from the statement of Indian Army Chief Gen. VK Singh who claimed on May 4, 2011 that if situation arose, the Indian defence forces were competent to undertake a US-like operation inside Pakistan, which killed Al Qaeda founder Osama bin Laden. Indian army’s Northern Command chief also expressed similar thought.

In this respect, Indian top civil and defence officials clearly said that their country could conduct a US-type military operation or surgical strikes inside Pakistan.

Nevertheless, in the aftermath of Mumbai attack, India left no stone unturned in frightening Pakistan through a prospective invasion. Violation of Pakistan’s air space by New Delhi had created an alarming situation, as Islamabad had also taken defensive steps in response to meet any aggression or surgical strikes by India. Situation was so critical that Pakistan started moving thousands of military troops from the Afghan border and the tribal areas to its border with India. But, India failed in implementing its plans of any military action or aerial strikes on Pakistan due to the fact that the latter also possesses nuclear arsenal which could destroy whole of India.

It is noteworthy that America dropped atomic bombs on Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki as Tokyo had no such devices to retaliate. After the World War 11, nuclear weapons were never used. These were only employed as a strategic threat. During the heightened days of the Cold War, many crises arose in Suez Canal, Korea, Cuba and Vietnam when the US and the former Soviet Union were willing to use atomic weapons, but they stopped because of the fear of nuclear war which could culminate in the elimination of both the super powers. It was due to the concept of ‘mutually assured destruction’ that the two rivals preferred to resolve their differences through diplomacy.

Political strategists agree that deterrence is a psychological concept that aims to affect an opponent’s perceptions. In nuclear deterrence weapons are less usable as their threat is enough in deterring an enemy that intends to use its armed might.

While both the neighbouring adversaries are nuclear powers, Indians should not ignore the principles of deterrence, popularly known as balance of terror.

In these terms, India is badly mistaken, if it overestimates its own power and underestimates Pakistan’s power. As our country lacks conventional weapons vis-à-vis India, so it will have to use atomic devices during a prolonged conflict which would result into national suicide of the two countries. So India may apply its blackmailing diplomacy on the non-atomic states of South Asia in exerting psychological pressure, but it is useless in case of Pakistan whose deterrence is credible, making its defence invincible, as it possesses a variety of nuclear weapons and missiles which could be used against India as the last option, if the latter attacked our country.

Moreover, it is due to atomic bombs that Islamabad can talk to New Delhi with honour and dignity, discouraging India from casting an evil eye on our motherland.

Furthermore, as Pakistan is the only declared nuclear country in the Islamic World, hence, it has become special target of some western top officials and media persons who continue their propaganda against Pakistan’s nuclear programme. They have especially hired the services of media anchors and writers who work on their payroll and have been creating doubts about the safety and security of Pakistan’s atomic weapons and nuclear plants. Particularly, in 2009 when the heavily-armed Taliban entered Swat, Dir and Buner, US high officials and their media had exaggerated the ‘Talibinisation’ of whole Pakistan, while showing concerns about Pakistan’s atomic arms. In that regard, the then US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton had warned that Pakistan’s nuclear weapons could fall into the hands of terrorists. But, when Pakistan’s armed forces ejected the Taliban insurgents out of these areas by breaking their backbone, She started appreciating the capabilities of Pakistan Armed Forces.

Similarly, when terrorists had attacked on Pakistan’s Naval Airbase in Karachi on May 23, 2011, US-led some western countries including India and Israel exploited the situation through disinformation about the security of Pak nukes. And, terrorists’ assault on Kamra Base was successfully foiled by the personnel of Pakistan Air Force, but, a baseless report, published in the New York Times had indicated that suspected militants attacked a major Pakistani Air Force base where some of the country’s nuclear weapons were considered to be stored in the early hours of the militants’ attack. The ex-US Defence Secretary Leon Panetta also stated day, “There is a danger of nuclear weapons of Pakistan, falling into hands of terrorists.”

Undoubtedly, Pakistan’s nuclear assets are in safe hands-well-protected and are under tight security arrangements, having the best command and control system.

Nonetheless, May 28 is celebrated as Youm-e-Takbeer by various political parties and social organizations including general masses with a pledge to make Pakistan a stronger country, militarily and economically, among the comity of nations. No doubt, on this very day of 1998, Pakistan became nuclear power.

Sajjad Shaukat writes on international affairs and is author of the book: US vs Islamic Militants, Invisible Balance of Power: Dangerous Shift in International Relations

Email: sajjad_logic@yahoo.com

Pakistan Armed Forces’ Role in UN Peacekeeping

                                   

By Sajjad Shaukat

Every year, International Day of United Nations (UN) Peacekeepers is celebrated on May 29 to pay tribute to all those who served in the UN peacekeeping operations and to honor the memory of those who lost their lives in the cause of peace. This very day also reminds Pakistan Armed Forces role in UN peacekeeping measures, during war and peace time. 

Pakistan Armed Forces are considered the best organized institution, and are highly respected in the country, as since the founding of Pakistan, its military has played a key role in holding the state together, promoting a feeling of nationhood and providing a bastion of selfless service.

Since its creation, Pakistan has played a significant role as UN member, in bringing peace through active diplomatic, moral and material support in various regions of the world. Today, Pakistan’s position as one of the largest troop contributing country in the world with one of the highest peacekeepers’ casualty figure is testimony to its commitment and endeavours towards promoting the noble cause of global peace. It is not easy to achieve peace in world’s conflict ridden areas. But Pakistan Army’s history is replete with sacrifices, services to humanity and promoting collective security for human prosperity.

In this regard, Pakistan is a big player in UN peacekeeping forces. Pakistan joined the United Nations on September 30, 1947. Since 1960, it has been actively involved in most of the UN peacekeeping missions. Major contributions of Pakistan Army are in Congo, Liberia Somalia, Ivory Coast, Western Sahara, Sierra Leone, Bosnia, Kosovo, Georgia, East Timor Haiti etc. Even, at present, more than 8200 troops of Pakistan Army are engaged in different peacekeeping missions across various volatile countries.

The performance of Pakistani peacekeepers has been recognized worldwide by several world leaders including those of the UN. An undeniable professional standing of Pakistani forces has made them the passion of every special representative of Secretary General and Force Commander in each of UN peacekeeping operations. In this respect, Pakistan’s dedication towards UN has been acknowledged by UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon who himself visited Pakistan and inaugurated the Center for International Peace and Stability (CIPS) on 13 August 2013 and praised Pakistan’s efforts in UN peacekeeping missions.

However, Pakistan has participated in 41 UN missions in 23 states where total 142,542 Pakistani personnel engaged, taking start from UN Congo Operation in 1960. Pak army delivered its services there, and contributed in ordnance, transport and staff. It is still present in Congo, and provided a Battalion Group comprising one infantry battalion and supporting elements.

For maintaining and monitoring ceasefire during transition of West Irian from Dutch rule to Indonesians, Pakistan contributed 1500 infantry troops from October 3, 1962 to April 30, 1963. In a rare acknowledgement of excellent role done, Chinese Premier Chou-En-Lai had said, “The only example in United Nation’s history, when United Nations force had gone in…performed its role honestly and came out, was Pakistan’s military contingent to Indonesia.”

Besides, Pakistan’s contribution was in United Nations Yemen Observer Mission (UNYOM) as a military observer from January to September 1964. Yemen entered into a state of civil war in 1962. To ensure that this conflict did not escalate into global incident, the UN set up its Yemen Observation Mission. And, United Nations Transition Assistance Group in Namibia (UNTAG) was established to assist the special representative of the UN Secretary General to ensure the early independence of Namibia through free and fair elections, and to carry out a number of other duties. For the purpose, 20 military observers from Pak Army performed their duties from April 1, 1989 to March 21, 1990 in Namibia.

Notably, Pak Army played a positive role in the Middle East, and was on forefront for peace restoration. United Nations Iraq-Kuwait Observer Mission (UNIKOM) was set up in April 1991, following the forced withdrawal of Iraqi forces from Kuwait. Its task was to monitor the demilitarized zone along the Iraq-Kuwait border and deter border violations. Pakistani forces which helped continuing their services there from April 1991 to 2003 were assigned the most difficult area in the north of Kuwait city—reclamation of Bubiyan Island was also entrusted to them. The operation was carried out by a task force of Pakistan Army Engineers. The professionalism and dedication displayed by this force was praised at international level.

While, inside the United Nations Transitional Authority on Cambodia (UNTAC), the Pakistan’s military forces carried out peacekeeping operations in the most thorny and remote areas during the period-May 1992 to August 1993. They overcame enormous logistic and operational problems, and proved their courage and determination by defending themselves and those for whom they were sent. Coping with the odds, they handled crisis after crisis and persuaded the warring factions to lay down their arms.

And, on the request of the UN in Latin America under the United Nations Mission in Haiti (UNMIH), Pakistan provided one infantry battalion, ‘PAKBAT’ which arrived in Haiti in March 1995 and was deployed in Cape Haitien—the area faced extremely volatile security situation and was also the hotbed of political agitation. ‘PAKBAT’ discharged its duties with an extensive patrolling program, covering various regions there.

Nevertheless, Pakistan’s army has worked in difficult terrains and situations for the global peace. Now, inside the country, although Pakistan Armed Forces are facing a tough situation in wake of war against terrorism, yet they are contributing to global peace and prosperity; having still a large number of their presence in various parts of the world.

Now, the major powers must abandon their false propaganda against Pakistan and its Armed Forces, as the latter did more in response of international demand of world peace.

Nonetheless, in pursuance of Pakistan Army’s unwavering commitment towards international peace, 130 Pakistani soldiers have sacrificed their lives. In this connection, Pakistan Armed Forces’ positive role in the UN peacekeeping measures reflects Pakistan’s desire to see the principles of human dignity, freedom and self-determination.

Email: sajjad_logic@yahoo.com

Karachi People! Pakistan Looking Towards You

By Aasef Chauhdry

The Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan is very clear, précis and unambiguous. The Article 6 of it elaborates in detail about people who fall under the High Treason category, thus liable to a punishment. The article 6 is hereby quoted,

“Article 6: High Treason

1. Any person who abrogates or subverts or suspends or holds in abeyance, or attempts or conspires to abrogate or subvert or suspend or hold in abeyance, the Constitution by use of force or show of force or by any other unconstitutional means shall be guilty of high treason.

2. Any person aiding or abetting or collaborating the acts mentioned in clause (1) shall likewise be guilty of high treason. 2(A). An act of high treason mentioned in clause (1) or clause (2) shall not be validated by any court including the Supreme Court and a High Court.

3. Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) shall by law provide for the punishment of persons found guilty of high treason.”

After having said this all, a question lurks in everyone’s mind that why a Psychological patient in the name of politics be allowed to make hostage the public, hijack the airtime of electronic channels and provoke the peaceful citizens of the country to rise against the state, while himself living comfortably abroad and enjoying all the perks and privileges as a citizen of that country? It’s not difficult to understand that we are talking about MQM Chairman Altaf Hussain, who was particularly and the rest of the MQM leadership generally, were earlier vociferously seeking direct involvement of Army, made a somersault and unexpectedly changed their stance and started criticizing Pakistan Army and intelligence agencies with hollow allegation of partiality. Military exercised restraint but venomous campaign against Army / ISI / Pakistan Rangers continued unabated. So finally the army had to rebut his nonsensical allegations in a befitting and strong manner. Hours after a strong reaction from the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) over a speech by Muttahida Qaumi Movement chief Altaf Hussain in which he ‘criticised’ the Pakistan Army, the party came up with a dilly dally excuse that their chief actually did not condemn or criticize the armed forces and in fact applauded the leadership of army chief General Raheel Sharif. This joke has happened many times before also and not a new thing.

Apart from the armed forces the general public of Pakistan showed strong resentment to his abhorrence for the army and largely condemned Altaf Hussain and his blind followers. Finding no other way out and under the growing condemnation and pressure from public and political circles, MQM leaders resorted to plead for forgiveness and regretted his remarks. It is his usual way and political jugglery which he has been repeating quite often. Why he is allowed to appear on microphone at that crucial time when he is not in his senses, and permitted to waste public’s precious time? The gentleman claims to be a visionary and a self proclaimed Quaid. Does this ludicrous behaviour suits to a person who has placed himself on a higher-tier?

In the latest episode of Altaf Hussain’s comical and absurd behaviour, he crossed all the limits of ethics and morality to demonize the institutions of Pakistan and even sought help from RAW but that was not the end. The irony was that like slaves, MQM leadership in Pakistan, without realizing, that in which tight corner their insane leader has placed them, launched a campaign to defend him. Public pressure once again forced him to seek apology.  It is imperative to question political leadership in Pakistan, how many times he would rebuke the nation and its sons in uniform and how many times the State would remain silent and bear his insolvent posture. There is a big question mark pinned on the ruling elite’s indifferent behaviour.  

At the moment it sounds as if this is the armed forces’ issue and not a matter of national concern. Pakistan Army spokesman, General Asim Bajwa, through his tweets of 30 April 2015, termed Muttahida Quami Movement (MQM) chief Altaf Hussain’s speech as “uncalled for and disgusting” and signaled legal proceeding against him. In one of the tweets he said, “Such reference to Army or its leadership as reaction to arrest of criminals, who may have links with any political party, won't be tolerated”. In his other tweets, Director General Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) General Asim Bajwa reacted against MQM chief’s speech, saying the statements against Pakistan Army are unbearable and the court will be approached in this connection. He tweeted, “Irresponsible remarks and using media to incite the people of Pakistan to rise against the state- the matter will be pursued legally.” He was of the opinion, “Such reference to Army or its leadership as reaction to arrest of criminals, who may have links with any political party but will not be tolerated.”

This is one side of the story while on the other side, Britain where Altaf Hussain is living since decades, is surprisingly quiet. The is the duty of our government to ask the UK Govt whether they would allow such a controversial series of hate speeches from a foreigner into their country, who is accused of having been involved in a serious money laundering case and for which he can be sentenced to jail for years? The most disappointing things are coming from the British and Pakistan governments. The former is not stopping her citizen from creating anarchy and restlessness through his live hate speeches, while the latter is criminally quiet over this disastrous conspiracy and neither taking any legal action nor banning such lethal speeches on electronic media. Its known to all and sundries that the LAEs (Law enforcing Agencies) Operations in Karachi are across the board and are without any like or dislike, nevertheless, the shady stance taken by Altaf Hussain creates suspicions and indicates MQM’s involvement in destabilizing Karachi. The role of LEAs to restore peace in Karachi is evident through its acts and it should be applauded and encouraged in true spirits without making biased references.

No one claims or alleges that the whole MQM is a band of criminals. It has, in fact, many balanced, sane and patriotic personalities. But it’s time for those personalities to think over it as to why should they remain the part of a lost, disgruntle and mischievous hoard? Knowing well, that a person sitting outside of Pakistan, having jolly good time while creating hurdles for them here by his hate speeches, has no right or reason to be followed or supported. Making a choice isn’t very difficult for them. O one side they have to follow a person whom they have not seen in decades and who is living on their party funds lavishly, abroad while on the other hand they have a holy motherland and its guardians, who should, logically be more important and dear to them. Pakistan Armed Forces are pro national in character without having any provincial inclinations. For them anyone who is against the State is their number one enemy, may he be a Punjabi, Pakhtun, Baloch or Sindhi. Mohajir otherwise sounds an out of place and out of time word as the last mass migration that took place was by the Afghan brethren. After decades some returned to their motherland and the others who preferred to stick around opted to change their nationalities and liked to be called as Pakistanis. If that’s so then why the people who migrated about 68 years back should be taken as the ‘Mohajirs’? Even the infants of that era are now senior citizens who have seen their wonderful time here in Pakistan. Many of them have called it a day and the rest are living peacefully in hibernation, then why this card of Mohajir is being played again and again when a meager number of actual Mohajirs is left alive and point to remember that when we call someone Mohajir its not only Urdu speaking class. The history suggests that Mohajirs from East Punjab suffered more at the hands of brutal Sikhs and gave far more sacrifices than anyone else.

My question is to the patriotic people of Karachi as to how long they will continue to stay mum and seal their tongues? And for how long they are going to tolerate lunacy of leadership? It is the first and foremost obligation of MQM workers to call Altaf Hussain’s oratory as sadistic, aggressive and treasonous. They should remember that as patriotic Pakistanis it’s their crucial test. What happens from here on would be entirely the responsibility of people of Karachi. They have to join their hands irrespective of their political parties’ alliances and have to raise a flag of unity and nationalism. Karachi is Pakistan’s lifeline. Pakistan as an independent state has stepped into seventh decade and third generation is enjoying the perks of independence.  How long we will continue to be Mohajir, let’s not negatively portray the image of residents of Karachi in a wrong way, they are now the proud natives of Sindh and majority of them is living happily. The loyalty and patriotism of Urdu speaking is beyond any doubt and it’s as pure and genuine as it is of a Punjabi, Pakhtun, Balochi, Kashmiri or Sindhi, however the same of a group within MQM is debatable. A big responsibility lies on the shoulders of the Karachites. It’s time for them to show their immense love for the motherland and let the history to write their names in the golden words. The armed forces are doing their duty and will keep discharging their responsibilities diligently and selflessly but it’s the people of Karachi who can stop Karachi from becoming Dhaka, when a handful bunch is hell bent upon playing into the alien hands.  

MQM Chief’s Blame Game against Key Security Agencies

                            

By Sajjad Shaukat

In the past few years, gang warfare, criminal activities and target killings have taken the lives of thousands of persons including the personnel of the Rangers and Police in Karachi. A number of terror-related incidents including sectarian violence have also resulted into several casualties.

Therefore, the Present Government led by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif launched the targeted operation in Karachi after obtaining consensus of all stakeholders like political parties, business community and members of civil society. For the purpose, Karachi was particularly handed over to Pakistan Rangers with power to take action against the culprits without any discrimination.

But, leadership of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) and particularly its Chief Altaf Hussain who was earlier vociferously seeking direct involvement of Army in Karachi abruptly changed his stance and started criticizing Pakistan Army and intelligence agencies with hollow allegation of partiality. Military exercised restraint, but venomous campaign of self-assumed blames against Pakistan’s key security agencies—Army, Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and Pakistan Rangers continued unabated. Under the growing condemnation and pressure from public and political circles, MQM leaders resorted to plead for forgiveness and regretted his remarks. It is his usual way, and political jugglery which he has been repeating quite often.

In the latest episode of Altaf Hussain’s ludicrous behaviour, he crossed all the limits of ethics and morality to demonize the key institutions of Pakistan, and even sought help from Indian secret agency, RAW. Like slaves, MQM leadership in Pakistan launched a campaign to defend him. Public pressure again forced him to seek apology.  However, like his previous contradictory statements, Altaf Husain again apologized for his derogatory remarks against Army and ISI, while praising the latter. He also backed out from his statement about seeking help from RAW. And his Karachi-based leadership also started presenting various clarifications to conceal the real face of its chief.

It is imperative to question political leadership in the country, how many times, he would rebuke the nation and its sons in uniform and how many times, the state would remain silent and bear his insolvent posture. At the same time, the British government may also be questioned—would they allow such a controversial series of hate speeches from a foreigner into their country.

It is notable that MQM’s leaders were already confused when on March 11, 2015, in a targeted operation, Rangers’ forces carried out a raid at Nine-Zero, the headquarters of the party in Karachi, and a large cache of illegal weapons were recovered and several criminals had also been arrested. In order to hide the anti-Pakistan activities, Altaf had again targeted Pak Army and ISI. Afterwards, he again admired these security agencies and Army Chief Gen. Raheel Sharif.

However, the real character of the MQM Chief Altaf Hussain needs analysis. In this context, it is notable that sometimes, he blames Pak Army and ISI for harassing his party workers, calling the residents of Karachi to defend themselves, sometimes, he admires these security agencies, sometimes, he threatens to separate Karachi from the federation, sometimes, he shows a strong sense of patriotism for Pakistan, sometimes, he suspends the membership of his party’s committee or sector incharges, sometimes, he restores the same, sometimes, he submits his own resignations, sometimes, he takes it back, sometimes, he instructs his party to join Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz, and sometimes, Pakistan Peoples Party, especially when these parties are in government. He also blackmails these mainstream parties for the advantages of MQM at the cost of peace in Karachi.

While, law-enforcing agencies’ operations in Karachi are across the board and shady stance taken by Altaf Hussain indicates MQM involvement in destabilizing Karachi by its armed wing.

Notably, MPA of MQM, Nadeem Hashmi was arrested on September 10, 2013 owing to firing at a police mobile in the Haideri area of the city in which the two policemen were killed. In the same month, some MQM workers were arrested, who were found involved in criminal activities, while the founder and leader of MQM Altaf Hussain had condemned the raid on MQM’s offices.

Recently, the paramilitary force proved that the MQM was behind the Baldia Town factory fire in which 250 persons were killed. On February 8, this year, the Rangers also arrested a senior MQM worker namely Rafiq Rajput who not only ran a team of ‘hit men’ but was also involved in the May 12, 2007 carnage in the Karachi.

On February 10, 2015, Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan disclosed that MQM Chief Altaf Hussain based in London has let loose a “reign of terror” in Karachi. He elaborated, “Nobody is safe at the hands of the party’s armed wing…with the revelation of the Joint Investigation Team (JIT) report in which Hussain’s party has been held responsible for the killing of over 250 Baldia Town factory workers.” Earlier, Imran Khan also pledged to take Altaf Hussain to the British court, as he is also behind the killing of PTI’s leader Zahra Shahid and journalist Wali Babar in Karachi.

Nevertheless, some developments need attention, as these have proved that traitors are within the MQM. On April 30, this year, during a press conference, while presenting two terrorists who he claimed belonged to the MQM, SSP Malir, Karachi Rao Anwar revealed, “Key MQM leaders have connections with Indian spy agency RAW”, adding that the arrested MQM workers had received training from RAW. He further said that the MQM was actively working against Pakistan, should be banned.

It is of particular attention that a recent report of the JIT disclosed that Saulat Mirza, the former MQM’s worker, who recorded his statement before the JIT said that MQM had links with RAW. Mirza confessed to killing 13 people, yet he was implicated in two murders only, and was executed by the court order.

It is mentionable that Zulfiqar Mirza, Sindh Home Minister and Senior Vice President of the then ruling party—PPP claimed on April 9, 2011 that he had been relieved from his ministry owing to pressure from the government’s coalition partner, the MQM. Mirza pointed out that the issue of target killing and extortion was just a ruse to remove him from his post.

As regards “Batha khauri”, everyone in Karachi knows that MQM has been collecting this illegal money from the local businessmen who are afraid of threats and terror-related actions of this party’s militant wing. While a majority of the innocent people of the city and followers of the MQM do not know the malpractices and criminal acts of this political party and are being misguided by their old leaders who act upon the directions of Altaf Hussain.

Meanwhile, on May 13, 2015, at least 45 people were killed after gunmen brutally opened fire on a bus of the Ismaili community in Karachi. Without any doubt, besides previous terror-attacks, Karachi bus incident is a handy work of RAW to sabotage the China-Pakistan economic Corridor (CPEC) by showing that if Pakistan government is not able to provide security to its citizens, how it can protect CPEC. Ismailis belong to Hunza (Gilgit/Baltistan) or have a spiritual linkage with this area, are Pakistanis. The CPEC would also originate from the same region.

Now, questions arise, how long the people of Karachi will continue to stay mum and seal their tongues? How long will the Muhajir cause of equality of representation, of economic opportunities be sabotaged by leaders like Altaf Hussain? And how long people of Karachi will continue to tolerate lunacy of its leadership?

Hence, it is the first and foremost obligation of MQM workers to call Altaf Hussain’s rhetoric as violent and treasonous. What happens from here is entirely the responsibility of people of Karachi. The loyal Pakistanis, living in the city must know that Karachi is Pakistan’s largest port and financial hub with the largest commercial markets, collecting 70 per cent of the country’s tax revenue. So, besides causing unrest in the city, creating instability in Pakistan, another aim of the MQM leaders is to cripple the economy of the city which is intermittently brought to a halt with shut-down strikes—many shops including other business centers are forced to be closed. And, old leadership of MQM, especially its chief misguide the people by propagating that national institutions are not made to develop other areas of Pakistan like Karachi, alleging that the establishment is once again doing the ethnic cleansing of Muhajirs.

In fact, Pakistan as an independent state has stepped into seventh decade and third generation is enjoying the perks of independence. How long we will continue to be Muhajir, let’s not negatively portray the image of residents of Karachi in a wrong way, they are now the natives of Sindh.

The residents of Karachi must be aware of the fact that Pakistan Army had given countless sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, while its top priority is to restore peace in the city. In this regard, Army Chief Gen. Raheel  vowed on April 29 to finish ‘all mafias’ in Karachi and made it clear that indiscriminate operation in the city would continue till its logical conclusion.  Pakistan Armed Forces are pro national in character without having any provincial inclinations. Hence, MQM chief’s blame game against key security agencies must be condemned by the patriot people of Karachi.

Sajjad Shaukat writes on international affairs and is author of the book: US vs Islamic Militants, Invisible Balance of Power: Dangerous Shift in International Relations

Email: sajjad_logic@yahoo.com

Reminiscence of the Naval Base Attack

By Sajjad Shaukat

Although Pakistan has become special arena of the different war, being waged by the security forces against the ruthless terrorists, yet country’s armed forces have capabilities to foil the In this respect, May 22 reminds the day when in 2011, 15 terrorists of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Al Qaeda attacked on the headquarters of the Pakistan Navy (Airbase), PNS Mehran in Karachi.  Two American-built P-3C Orion surveillance aircraft were also destroyed. An intense gunfight broke out between the terrorists and the security forces including army personnel and naval commandos, and it continued for 16 hours. There was a series of loud explosions. This fact proved that the perpetrators were armed with automatic weapons, grenades and rockets. Despite the continued firing of the gunman on the troops, the valiant security forces successfully coped with the militants and were able to take back the related naval airbase. It was due to their boldness that the attackers failed in damaging the whole airbase or taking hostages. During the operation, 18 military personnel were martyred and 16 wounded. Spokesman Navy said that the terrorists were killed.

Regarding the terror-attack on the Mehran base Karachi, sources indicated the involvement of Indian intelligence agency, RAW which conducted that assault with the help of some anti-Pakistan secret agencies. In this respect, these agencies got the services of a group of Al Qaeda and TTP, based in Afghanistan. An investigation pointed out that at the time of the attack, there were six Americans at the base, but terrorists did not take them hostages. Like previous and present subversive acts, the TTP took responsibility for assault of the naval In this regard, various terror-attacks indicate that Indian RAW has been waging guerilla warfare in Pakistan through its well-trained insurgents, especially of the TTP which conducted attacks in After sponsoring bomb blasts and suicide attacks in the past, a perennial wave of the same in 2009-particularly in the last 18 months clearly proves that RAW has modified its tactics of subversion in Pakistan. Apart from direct suicide events, militants, armed with hand grenades, machine guns and other weapons also come to help the explosive-laden vehicles so as to penetrate the security at the target points. Sometimes, exchange of fire takes place between the saboteurs and the security guards, and sometimes, purpose is to directly kill the security personnel of our country.

A number of terror-events in Pakistan endorse that RAW’s agents have been acting upon the guerilla techniques. In most of the terror-tragedies, huge quantity of explosives has also been used, as noted in case of navy’s airbase, Karachi In Lahore, similar tactics of exchange of fire were occurred in connection with many terrorist incidents, as the militants reached their directed targets with latest weapons. In this respect, on March 3, 2009, terrorist attack which targeted the bus of Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore had killed 8 persons after a continuous gunfire by the militants. Pakistani officials confirmed that “grenades and rocket launchers had been recovered” which were of foreign origin. Afterwards, official inquiry disclosed that RAW was behind that attack. On May 27, 2009, more than 30 people were killed in Lahore when an explosive-laden Suzuki van exploded near Rescue 15 building of the police which was completely destroyed. It also damaged the building of the Lahore Capital City Police Office (CCPO) and that of the Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) which was the main target, but could not be hit due to heavy firing by the security guards on the terrorists who were firing at them. Punjab Law Minister Rana Sanaullah said on the same day that Indian involvement in “suicide attack in Lahore cannot be ruled out.”

Similar types of terror-tactics were applied by the culprits in relation to the Pearl Continental hotel in Peshawar and the Marriot Hotel in Islamabad. Another guerilla technique of the RAW-trained terrorists is that they camouflage themselves by wearing the uniform of Pakistani security forces so as to deceive the security guards. The militants who attacked the GHQ, Rawalpindi on October 10, 2009 were wearing army uniforms. It is mentionable that regarding the 2009 simultaneous terror attacks in Lahore and that of the GHQ, the then Spokesman of the ISPR, Maj. Gen. Athar Abbas, Interior Minister Rehman Malik and other TV commentators had indicated Indian involvement behind the attack, remarking: “Hakimullah Mehsud and other terrorists are “the enemies of the state” and “are mercenaries who receive arms from Afghanistan to destabilize the country.”

Similarly, on March 30, 2009, the Manawan Police Academy in Lahore was attacked and captured by an estimated 12 gunmen who also seized hostages. Despite the continued firing of the gunman on the military troops and police, the valiant security forces successfully coped with the militants and were able to take back the building. On November 2, 2013, suicide bomber targeted a checkpoint at Wagah in Lahore and like other terror-assaults, Indian-supported TTP claimed responsibility. Afterwards, investigations proved Indian involvement in this attack. As regards the most brutal incident, TTP took responsibility for the massacre of 132 school children at Army Public School and College in Peshawar on December 16, 2013. In the recent past, TTP again accepted responsibility in relation to two suicide attacks on the churches in Lahore.

Particularly, in August 16, 2012, when nine militants disguised in security forces’ uniform, equipped with latest weapons attacked Pakistan Air Force Base at Kamra, the valiant personnel of Pakistan Air Force and Special Service Group (SSG) of Commandoes of Pak Army foiled the assault by killing all the terrorists. Only one soldier was martyred. On May 13, this year, at least 45 people were killed after the gunmen brutally opened fire on a bus of the Ismaili community near Safoora Chowrangi area of Karachi. Without any doubt, Karachi bus incident is a handy work of RAW to sabotage the China-Pakistan economic Corridor (CPEC) by showing that if Pakistan government is not able to provide security to its citizens, how it can protect CPEC. Ismailis belong to Hunza (Gilgit/Baltistan) or have a spiritual linkage with this area, are Pakistanis. The CPEC would also originate from the same region.

As a matter of fact, based in Afghanistan, RAW with technological support of Israel and other anti-Pakistan countries have been sending the culprits to Pakistan so as to weaken the latter, as it is also the only nuclear country in the Islamic world. Undoubtedly, Pakistan is in the state of new war, being waged by the Armed Forces and intelligence agencies against terrorists. In this connection, our Armed Forces have almost obtained their objectives in North Waziristan Agency (NWA) through military operation Zarb-e-Azb against the terrorists who had challenged the writ of the state, and had frightened the entire nation by their terror-acts. In Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Karachi and other parts of the country including tribal areas, our security forces are successfully coping with the militants.

It is mentionable that in his book, “Fighting Power: German and U.S. Army Performance, 1939-1945”, Creveld identifies the elements of ‘moral force’, whom he calls “fighting power, the willingness to fight and the readiness, if necessary, to die.” The greater these elements, the less vulnerable an armed force will be to demoralization. ‘Moral force’, then, is the crucial factor in determining the combat power of any belligerent. No doubt, it is due to the elements of “high moral force” that like other similar terror-assaults, Pakistan’s courageous soldiers of the Armed Forces foiled the Karachi naval base attack. Hence, May 22 is reminiscence of this very day which shows capabilities of these forces.

Sajjad Shaukat writes on international affairs and is author of the book: US vs Islamic Militants, Invisible Balance of Power: Dangerous Shift in International Relations

Email: sajjad_logic@yahoo.com

RAW Targets China-Pakistan Economic Corridor

By Sajjad Shaukat

On May 13, this year, at least 45 people were killed and several injured after gunmen brutally opened fire on a bus of the Ismaili community near Safoora Chowrangi area of Karachi. The deadly terror-attack resulted into countrywide day of mourning, closure of shops and institutes in Karachi and other areas of Sindh including a complete shutter-down strike by Ismaili community Without any doubt, Karachi bus incident is a handy work of Indian secret agency RAW to sabotage the China-Pakistan economic Corridor (CPEC) by showing that if Pakistan government is not able to provide security to its citizens, how can it protect CPEC. Ismailis belong to Hunza (Gilgit/Baltistan) or have a spiritual linkage with this area, are Pakistanis. The CPEC would also originate from the same region.

It is notable that during the recent visit of the Chinese President Xi Jinping to Pakistan, on April 20, 2015, he and Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif signed 51 agreements for cooperation in various fields, related to China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. The establishment of CPEC between deep Gwadar seaport of Balochistan and the historic Silk Road city in western regions-Xinjiang of China will connect Gilgit-Baltistan through Khunjerab Pass. Beijing would also build an international airport at Gwadar, while the roads infrastructure in Gwadar would link the communication network of rest of the country to facilitate transportation of goods. When Gwadar seaport becomes fully operational, it would connect the landlocked Central Asian states with rest of the world. Being the commercial hub, the port is likely to increase volume of trade, bringing multiple economic and financial benefits to Pakistan like the Suez Canal which changed the destiny of Egypt when Israel returned it to the former. It will enable high-volume cargo vessels to move in the major oceans. Gwadar project will not only uplift the impoverished people of Balochistan by providing thousands of employment opportunities and is likely to develop whole the province by redressing their grievances. The resulting prosperity in the province would trickle down to the Baloch people and damp the separatist sentiments, which the hostile elements, supported by anti-Pakistan powers do not want.

The ink on China-Pakistan agreements—CPEC was barely dry when western media, especially RAW started playing up the Baloch insurgency. In this regard, the director of The Second Floor (T2F), a social activist Sabeen Mahmud was shot dead by unidentified gunmen in Karachi on April 24—followed by a bomb blast in Sibi, which killed several persons on April 26. However, she had left T2F after attending the session on Balochistan, when she was targeted. She was likely to conduct a seminar at LUMS in Lahore about Balochistan. No doubt, RAW is behind the assassination of Sabeen Mahmud-a well thought-out plan not only to try to sabotage Pak-China alliance, but also to accuse Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Another aim was also to drive a wedge between Balochistan and rest of Pakistan. However, Pakistan’s civil and military leadership, leaders of various political parities and religious parties including members of civil societies have strongly condemned the Karachi massacre in the bus and have shown solidarity with Ismaili community. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif held a high-level meeting in Karachi, in which Army Chief Gen Raheel Sharif and other political leaders also participated. Prime Minister Sharif said about the bus attack that Karachi is Pakistan’s economic and trading hub and “the enemies of Pakistan do not like the economic progress of the country. To put a stop to Pakistan’s economic progress is their agenda.” Next day, he remarked that some local elements and foreign forces are creating hurdles in China-Pakistan Economic Corridor programme which is vital for progress and development of Taking serious note of the Safoora Chowrangi bus assault, on May 14, while showing his determination to eliminate all terrorists in the city, Gen. Raheel Sharif held a high-level meeting of military officials and security agencies at the Corp Headquarters in Karachi. He vowed to bring terrorists behind the Karachi attack to justice including their facilitators and sympathizers.

Besides, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon who also condemned the bus massacre, urged Pakistan to move quickly to protect religious minorities. It was another aim of India to distort Pakistan’s image abroad. It is mentionable that Ahmed Marwat, a spokesman for Jundullah which is the affiliated group of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), claimed responsibility for the bus attack. The group which started off from South Waziristan has targetted Shia minorities and foreign tourists in the past as well. In November, last year, it had pledged support to the ISIS or Daesh. In fact, RAW wanted to divert attention from its sinister designs by targeting the innocent persons in the bus. In this respect, on May 14, Pakistan’s Foreign Office denied existence of global terror outfit Daesh, also known as Islamic State, in Pakistan. The FO Spokesperson Qazi Khalil Ullah said security forces of Pakistan were ready to meet any threat regarding the terror outfit. Foreign Secretary Aizaz Chaudhry pointed out that Indian RAW was behind terrorist.

Nevertheless, the probe team, comprising of security agencies has found clear evidence of Indian RAW involvement in Safora Chorangi incident in Karachi. They arrested the suspected terrorists, after their phone calls were traced—showed that RAW was involved in the incident, while some leaders and media analysts also stated that the RAW is behind the bus carnage. Recall, when during the Musharraf regime, Islamabad initiated the construction of Gwadar deep-seaport in Balochistan in March 2002 with Chinese assistance, sirens went off in the capitals of foreign countries, especially the US, India and Israel which took it as a threat to their global and Notably, besides Balochistan’s ideal strategic location, its abundant mineral resources like gas, coal and gold, entailing Pakistan’s close ties with China also pinches the eyes of the US, India, Israel and some western countries which intend to destabilize Pakistan for their collective aims.

Therefore, major challenge to Pak-China strategic alliance is that RAW has well-established its network in Afghanistan, and with the tactical assistance of anti-Pakistan secret agencies, it is fully backing cross-border incursions including terror-activities in Balochistan province and other regions of Pakistan, and is also destabilizing China and Iran. It has continuously been assisting the Baloch anti-Pakistan groups like BLA, Jundullah and TTP including their affiliated outfits with logistic support—the militants kidnapped and killed many innocent people and the security personnel in the province and other areas of Pakistan through suicide attacks, bomb blasts, targeted killings and sectarian violence to create lawlessness in the country. In the past few years, they abducted and killed many Chinese and Iranian nationals in Pakistan. On a number of occasions, these insurgent groups claimed responsibility for their subversive acts. The major purpose behind is to create unrest in Pakistan, especially Balochistan and to discourage Beijing for the development of Gwadar port. In this context, in May, 2013, a day before Chinese Premier Li Keqiang arrived in Islamabad; Chinese engineers being driven through Clifton Block-1 in Karachi escaped a major bomb attack. Taking note of the foreign powers’ anti-Pakistan designs, during the visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping, Islamabad made extraordinary security arrangements.

It is worth-mentioning that unlike the Indian-backed Afghan President Hamid Karzai, President Ashraf Ghani realized that Afghanistan and Pakistan are facing similar challenges of terrorism and will combat this threat collectively. Besides, Islamabad’s proposal to offer security and defence cooperation to Afghanistan was received positively. Both the countries desire to further strengthen bilateral relations in all areas of mutual interest. Now, frequent visits of Pak-Afghan civil and military leaders to each other’s country also irritate New Delhi. It is noteworthy that that Gen. Raheel accompanied by the DG of ISI, went to Kabul on December 17, 2014. During his meeting with his Afghan counterpart, President Ashraf Ghani and the ISAF commander, he presented the evidence of linkage between the massacre of children at Peshawar school and TTP sanctuaries in Afghanistan. He also asked about action against the TTP chief Mullah Fazlullah and his network which is being assisted by India.

Taking cognizance of Indian secret function, now, Afghan government and US which now want stability in Afghanistan have started taking action against the TTP. A number of TTP militants have been captured in Afghanistan, while Fazlullah survived in a drone attack. Nonetheless, besides other external secret agencies, particularly RAW which has accelerated terrorism activities in Pakistan to target China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, is behind Karachi.

Sajjad Shaukat writes on international affairs and is author of the book: US vs Islamic Militants, Invisible Balance of Power: Dangerous Shift in International Relations

Email: sajjad_logic@yahoo.com