Hanif Abbasi Alleges PTI Brigade and Foreign Influence in Criticism of Army
Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi has claimed that the PTI brigade and Indian operatives are deliberately targeting the Pakistan Army over the recent Jaffer Express accident. Speaking at a press conference at Railway Headquarters in Lahore, Abbasi stated that political opponents and external forces are attempting to malign the country’s security institutions by spreading misinformation regarding the incident.
Abbasi further added that the criticism directed at the army is being fueled by substantial financial backing, amounting to billions of rupees, with the aim of destabilizing Pakistan. He specifically pointed out that Bilawal Bhutto Zardari refrained from blaming Nawaz Sharif or Shehbaz Sharif for the incident, yet the PTI brigade is actively involved in targeting the military.
Compensation for Victims and Railway Employee Upgrades
During the press conference, Hanif Abbasi announced financial compensation for the victims of the Jaffer Express tragedy. He stated that the families of those martyred in the accident would receive Rs 5.2 million, along with the assurance that their children would be provided jobs within Pakistan Railways.
Abbasi also highlighted significant structural changes within the railway department, including upgrades to the ranks of railway police personnel. According to the new policy:
- A railway police constable will now be placed in scale seven.
- An Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) will be promoted to scale 11.
- Railway police ranks have been made equivalent to the Punjab Police for better service benefits and efficiency.
The Role of Terrorism in the Jaffer Express Tragedy
The minister emphasized that terrorism remains a persistent threat to Pakistan’s security, linking the train accident to a broader pattern of sabotage aimed at weakening the country. He questioned who was responsible for facilitating such acts of terror and pointed to India’s involvement, citing its multiple consulates in Afghanistan as hubs for destabilization efforts.
He claimed that India has been actively working to divide Pakistan’s ethnic groups, including Baloch, Pashtun, and Punjabi communities, in an effort to create internal conflicts. Abbasi warned that unless the Pakistani nation stands united behind the military, external threats would continue to pose grave dangers to national security.
The Role of the Pakistan Army in Rescue Operations
Praising the efforts of the Pakistan Army, Abbasi stated that the military played a crucial role in rescue operations following the Jaffer Express accident. He commended the bravery of army commandos, who managed to prevent suicide bombers from carrying out their attacks on the train.
According to Abbasi, the army’s swift response ensured the safety of 427 passengers who were at risk. He asserted that Pakistan’s security forces have consistently defended the nation from terrorist threats and that the public must rally behind them in support rather than falling for propaganda disseminated by foreign and political adversaries.
A Call for National Unity Against Terrorism
Abbasi drew parallels between the current security challenges faced by Pakistan and those encountered by war-torn countries like Iraq, Syria, and Libya. He alleged that a similar conspiracy is being hatched to weaken Pakistan’s defenses and plunge it into instability.
The minister criticized certain political factions for echoing anti-state rhetoric and using incidents like the Jaffer Express tragedy as an opportunity to spread dissent. He warned that such narratives serve only the enemies of Pakistan and urged the public to differentiate between genuine criticism and foreign-sponsored misinformation.
Condemnation from Global Powers and Pakistan’s Strategic Importance
Abbasi noted that both the United States and China have condemned the Jaffer Express attack. However, he expressed disappointment that local opposition groups have instead chosen to align their statements with hostile foreign entities.
He reiterated Pakistan’s status as a nuclear power and a leading country among 57 Islamic nations, emphasizing that its strength poses a challenge to adversaries who seek to disrupt its progress. The minister stressed that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has become a target of global criticism because it is seen as a symbol of Pakistan’s economic resurgence.
Urgent Railway Reforms and Future Plans
Abbasi acknowledged the ongoing challenges within Pakistan Railways and outlined his administration’s commitment to improving railway operations. He highlighted several areas in need of urgent reform, including:
- Security Enhancements: Upgrading surveillance systems at railway stations, repairing non-functional scanner machines, and strengthening railway police infrastructure.
- Operational Efficiency: Ensuring trains run on time, improving station facilities, and increasing cargo transport efficiency.
- Economic Measures: Making rail cargo services more affordable to boost trade and generate additional revenue for Pakistan Railways.
Political Differences Must Be Set Aside for National Security
Concluding his press conference, Abbasi called on all political parties to set aside their differences and work collectively for the greater good of the country. He warned that divisive politics and internal strife only serve Pakistan’s enemies, and now is the time for unity and national cohesion.
The railway minister assured the public that under his leadership, Pakistan Railways would undergo significant improvements in safety, transparency, and service delivery. He reaffirmed his commitment to making Pakistan’s railway system one of the most reliable in the region and ensuring that future tragedies like the Jaffer Express incident are prevented through better security measures and operational oversight.
With the growing threats of terrorism and misinformation campaigns, Abbasi emphasized that national security must be the top priority, urging citizens to stand by their armed forces in safeguarding the nation’s future.
