Army being dragged into the matter: DG ISPR

Enemy wants to exploit the situation and create anarchy in the country amid the current situation.

RAWALPINDI: Expressing concern over unrelenting protests by religious groups following the top court’s verdict acquitting Asia Bibi in blasphemy case, military’s spokesperson Maj. Gen Asif Ghafoor on Friday asked religious parties not to become a part of the legal process.

In a statement here, the director general Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said a review petition had been filed over the court decision, adding “it will be better if the law is allowed to run its course on the matter.”

He said everyone’s limits were defined by the law and the constitution and all people must respect and adhere to it.

He stated that it was unfortunate that the army was being dragged into the matter that had nothing to do with the armed forces.

A lot of work needs to be done for complete restoration of peace in the country, he underlined. DG ISPR said an action could also be taken in the face of statements being given against the respected institution.

He said an army official was also a part of committee constituted by the government to hold talks with the protesters. “The government is also looking to resolve this issue,” he added.

The military’s spokesperson warned that the ‘enemy’ wanted to exploit the situation and create anarchy in the country amid the current situation.

The army, he said, would follow the orders of the chief of army staff given to him by the prime minister.

‘Let’s not drag the situation to the level that ultimate responsibility gets to the army,” he stated.

Maj Gen Ghafoor said supremacy of law and the constituency should be above everything and everyone must abide by it.

“We want the current situation to end peacefully”, he said.

Pakistan Army has fought a war and we are near to be successful in it, said the DG ISPR.