LAHORE - Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly, Syed Khursheed Shah on Monday alleged that media had blown the Tharparkar issue out of proportion as the ground situation was not as bad as being portrayed.
“Neither government nor media can stop the natural calamities”, he said while talking to media on his arrival at the Lahore Airport. President Peoples Unity, PIA, Ch Sajid Gujjar was also present on the occasion.
He said that he would not defend any person in this regard, but provincial government had taken strict action against the responsible officials, some of whom had also been suspended.
To a question, he termed the PTI’s demand for opening of Taliban office in Peshawar as uncalled for. “The PTI would be taking an extra-constitutional act by allowing Taliban to open office in KP”,he maintained, adding, that such an offer to a banned religious outfit having blood of over 60,000 Army men and civilians on its hands was beyond comprehension.
He complained that while the government was having consultation with the PTI over formation of new committee to hold talks with the TTP, it did not take the PPP into confidence over the issue.
He advised PTI chief Imran Khan to become part of the negotiating committee himself instead of nominating somebody else.
Khursheed opposed direct involvement of Army into the talks, stating that it would be blamed if the talks fail.
He opined that the Army should remain neutral and act as directed by the government.
To a question about appointment of new Chief Election Commissioner, he said that PTI chief must know that appointment of CEC was the prerogative of the Chief Justice of Pakistan and not that of the government.
To a question about Air Leagues unlawful activities against the People’s Unity in Lahore and Islamabad, he said that he would take up the matter with the Prime Minister who should take action against the “Air League outlaws.”
“Government cannot fight against Taliban, but had launched attack on the labourers.” He said, adding, that the government should tolerate the Peoples’ Unity till March, 2015, the date its tenure will be completed.