Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari hailed the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model as a benchmark for driving economic growth and fostering nationwide prosperity. He urged the business community to collaborate with the Sindh government in forging sustainable partnerships. Highlighting the potential for transformative impact, he called on stakeholders to propose “win-win projects” aimed at advancing green energy, upgrading infrastructure, and enhancing essential utility services.

According to a press release issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP, while addressing a luncheon held in honor of the business community, appreciated their role in the development of Karachi and the country. He acknowledged the challenges faced by the business community and noted the significant improvements in Karachi’s situation compared to pre-2008 conditions. He emphasized that the elimination of extortion, threats, and forced participation in political activities has allowed businesses to operate peacefully, thanks in part to the efforts of the PPP and Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari acknowledged the existing challenges and reiterated his commitment to resolving them. He instructed the Chief Minister of Sindh to establish a special cell combining the Anti-Corruption Department and police to address the grievances of Karachi’s business community. He urged businesspersons to report specific complaints and name officials involved, instead of making general allegations.

Chairman PPP highlighted his desire for the city’s development and prosperity, emphasizing his commitment to supporting businesses. Addressing the traders, he stated, “I have never demanded extortion from you nor asked for donations. Tell me today if you have any complaints against me. Have I ever caused you any trouble? So why would I want anyone else to trouble you in my name or in the name of my government?”

Highlighting his interaction with the trader community, Chairman said that working together can lead to better outcomes. He mentioned that providing employment opportunities to his voters is a part of his manifesto. He emphasized that for the public to have access to job opportunities, it is essential for the country’s economy to thrive and for the trader community’s businesses to flourish.

While discussing the Public-Private Partnership introduced by the Sindh government, Chairman said that Sindh is the only province where numerous projects under this model are not only running successfully but have also gained international recognition. “I want us to accelerate and further advance this Public-Private Partnership,” he added. Referring to projects like the Jhirk-Mullah Katiar Bridge, healthcare initiatives, and Thar Coal, he said that these are not only prime examples of good governance but are also operating profitably and now generating revenue. “I want to explore more win-win opportunities of this nature, where the business community and the Sindh government work together to serve this province,” he added.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that being the most populous city in the country, Karachi holds immense potential. He emphasized that all utility service-related issues faced by Karachi can be resolved under public-private partnerships. Highlighting the energy sector, he said that no other province has as much potential as Sindh. Criticizing the determination of electricity tariffs in Islamabad without consulting the business community or the provincial government, he called it a significant issue, adding, “It is you and I who bear the consequences of such policies.”

Speaking about investment opportunities in the province, Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that Sindh has as much coal as Saudi Arabia has oil. He highlighted that Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto envisioned the Thar Coal Project in the 1990s. “Imagine how beneficial it could have been for the country and the nation if Shaheed Bibi’s hands hadn’t been tied,” he remarked. He pointed out that after the dismissal of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto’s government, everyone working on the Thar Coal Project, including experts and investors, were subjected to retaliatory actions by the Accountability Bureau.

He urged the need for increased private investment in Sindh’s solar and wind energy sectors. Criticizing the federal government, he said, “They shamelessly claim that load-shedding has been eliminated, yet many areas in the country still suffer from power outages lasting up to 18 hours. We have lost confidence that we will ever get reliable electricity from the federal government.”

Chairman PPP urged that solar and wind power parks can be established in every division of Sindh. He said that in the event of the federal government privatizing electricity distribution companies (DISCOs), the Sindh government should take over under a public-private partnership, adding tha work has already begun on three projects, but more such projects will be included in the next financial year.

Terming water as a critical issue, Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that not only Pakistan but the entire world faces the threat of drought and famine due to global warming. He said that providing water to Karachi, given the rapidly growing population, is nothing short of a challenge. He emphasized that, like gas, the province has long been denied its rightful share of water. Pointing out the situation, he said that to meet Karachi’s water needs, it was agreed in the 1991 Water Accord that additional water would be allocated to fulfill the city’s requirements. However, to this day, not only has the additional water not been provided, but even the complete allocated share has not been delivered. 

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari criticized the federal government’s decision to construct six new canals on the Indus River, stating that this move would worsen the water situation in tail-end areas of the river, including Karachi. He said that when he oppose these canals, he is fighting for Karachi’s rights and standing up for the rights of its business community. He emphasized that the traders of Karachi, the people of Sindh, and the entire nation should demand the implementation of the 1991 Water Accord. Once this is done, we will be able to ensure water reaches every district and every area.

Chairman PPPi emphasized the importance of modern agriculture in the future and invited the business community to partner with the Sindh government to promote smart agriculture in the province. “We want to introduce this initiative through collaboration between small farmers and the business community, so we can increase crop yields using modern techniques,” he said, adding that, with the support of global partners, Sindh’s initial focus will be on benefiting its farmers. By developing a robust infrastructure, we can enhance the agricultural sector and strengthen our economy. The government will fully support partnerships between small farmers and investors.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari also said that he is in favor of a welfare state, and for that, we need to generate taxes and increase revenues. He criticized the current tax system, saying, “The way the tax system is functioning, we can never succeed. Taxes have essentially become a form of extortion.” He emphasized the need to introduce business-friendly tax reforms that do not hinder economic activity. He also noted that while agriculture is already taxed—albeit at a low rate—the highest taxpayer in agricultural taxes in Sindh is none other than President Asif Ali Zardari..

Chairman stressed the need to focus on increasing revenue and tax collection. Highlighting an example, he said, “When the responsibility for collecting sales tax on services was given to Sindh, we engaged with the people and achieved record tax collection.” He further said that the federal government, under IMF directives, has asked the provincial government to increase the tax slab by 45%.

Encouraging the business community to invest in sectors like green energy and solid waste recycling, he said, “We want to be your partners. Don’t see us as opponents but as allies. I’m not here to play a short game; I’m here for the long inning. I plan to stay here, in this city, and work for its betterment. Together, let’s take our province’s future into our hands, and I will not disappoint you.”

**

Businessmen speeches in today’s event 

1. Idrees Gigi 

2. ⁠Atif Ikram FPCCI

3. ⁠Fawad Anwer 

4. ⁠Sultan Alana 

5. ⁠Arif Habib 

6. ⁠Javed Bilwani 

7. ⁠Zubair Motiwala 

8. Akeel Karim Dhedhi 

Businessmen on stage 

1. Tariq Ikram FPCCI

2. ⁠Dewan Yousuf 

3. ⁠Sultan Alana 

4. ⁠Akeel Karim Dhedhi 

5. ⁠Arif Habib 

6. ⁠Zubair Motiwala 

7. ⁠Jawaid Bilwani 

8. ⁠Zain Bashir 

9. ⁠Idrees Gigi

Ministers and Parliamentarians on stage 

1. Murad Ali Shah CM

2. ⁠Syed Nasir Hussain Shah  

3. ⁠Sharjeel Inam Memon 

4. ⁠Nisar Khuhro 

5. ⁠Senator Saleem Mandviwala 

6. ⁠Dr Ikhtiar Baig MNA

7. ⁠Murtaza Wahab Mayor Karachi

Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has highlighted climate change, digital rights protection, and social inequality as the most pressing challenges facing Pakistan today. Emphasizing the need for collective action, he stated that these complex issues “cannot be resolved by any individual or group alone.” He called on the youth to take the lead in building a brighter future for the country while advocating for the removal of barriers that hinder their progress and empowerment.

According to a press release issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP, while addressing the convocation of Mehran University of Engineering and Technology (MUET) in Jamshoro, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the graduates and their families. He said that it is a day of celebration but also one of reflection—reflection on your roots, the values you uphold, and the future you will help create. As graduates of Mehran University, you are inheritors of a legacy that goes beyond academic excellence.

He highlighted Sindh’s rich historical significance and said that this land is the cradle of the Indus Valley Civilization, which flourished thousands of years ago as pioneers of progress and sustainability. They built cities like Mohenjo-Daro with advanced drainage systems, grid-like streets, and a profound respect for nature. Their wisdom and vision still resonate today.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari reminded the graduates of their duty to honor this remarkable heritage. He said that they must carry forward this legacy with innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity. Sindh, with its beauty and resilience, stands at the frontline of the climate crisis. Rising sea levels, erratic weather patterns, and devastating floods have impacted communities across the province. While these challenges are daunting, they also present opportunities for meaningful change.

Encouraging the graduates, he said that as engineers, scientists, and leaders, they hold the power to drive transformative solutions. From developing renewable energy technologies to designing climate-resilient cities and promoting sustainable agriculture, your efforts can address not just environmental challenges but also the issues of justice. Those least responsible for global emissions are often the ones most affected. Your work can ensure a more equitable and sustainable future for all.

Chairman PPP also emphasized the importance of addressing the challenges of the digital era. While technology has unlocked vast opportunities, it has also brought challenges like data privacy, misinformation, and cybercrime. Just as the Indus Valley Civilization set standards for fairness in trade and governance, we must establish guiding principles for the digital age. This is why I advocate for a Digital Bill of Rights to ensure universal internet access, protect privacy, and combat misinformation. Technology must serve humanity, not the other way around.

He urged graduates to uphold the spirit of collaboration they had nurtured at Mehran University. Your time here has shown the transformative power of teamwork. As you step into the world, build bridges, not walls. Seek unity over division. Education is not just about knowledge acquisition; it is about empowerment. The degree you receive today is a key to unlocking opportunities and a responsibility to uplift your communities, your province, and your country.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari expressed immense pride in the graduates’ accomplishments. Mehran University is making waves in academia. Your high ranking in Times Higher Education and achievements like excelling in the Huawei competition in Riyadh, the Digital Pakistan Cyber Security Hackathon, and other international and national platforms, are testaments to your talent and hard work. These milestones highlight the immense potential of our youth, and it is our collective duty to support and guide you as you work to shape a better future for Pakistan.

He also highlighted the university’s role in nurturing leaders within the PPP, noting that Sindh’s Chief Minister, the Speaker of the Assembly, and several ministers are proud alumni of MUET. This demonstrates the bright and promising future awaiting you.

Concluding his address, he congratulated the graduates and their families, and said that it is a moment of immense pride and joy, not just for you but for all of us. Your achievements shine as a beacon of hope for a brighter and more prosperous tomorrow.

Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari in his address at the swearing-in ceremony of newly elected members of Ittehad Union of All Pakistan Employees of OGDCL, said that the PPP has a three-generation long history of striving for labourers and workers.

Chairman Bilawal felicitated the newly elected President Zahid Hussain Bhutto and other members from the Union. He said that the PPP and labourers unitedly attained a Constitution for the country, by struggling shoulder to shoulder with the Quaid-e-Awam, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. This was the first time that the labourers of the country were given unprecedented rights. The labourers also struggled with Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, who was able to face dictators like General Zia and General Musharraf with the support of her brothers.

The PPP, when given the opportunity has always upheld the labourers’ agenda, Chairman PPP said. The labour policy of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto was devolved, and put into practice first by the Government of Sindh. The Party has protected and furthered the cause of labour rights in the federal and provincial systems. The economy can thrive with support of the labourer fraternity. Chairman Bilawal Bhutto recalled increasing the allowances of employees during his tenure as the Foreign Minister, adding that the last increase had also been made by the PPP government in 2011.

Chairman PPP said that the success of the members is a testament to the majority of those within the institution supporting their cause. There is no system in the world where a government can sustain without the support of the people.

History is witness that systems that are run against the wishes of the people cannot survive. Chairman Bilawal said that this is relevant even today in Pakistan. The government occasionally adds to its own issues through one-sided policies devoid of consensus. Decisions that are consensus-based and adhere to the desires of the people are more effective and easier to implement. The 18th Amendment cannot be tampered with today because it was based on consensus and the will of the people.

Chairman PPP said that the policies being made today could have seen more success if the allies were consulted. He said that the PPP is the voice of the people not only in the Parliament, but in all interactions with the government’s representatives. He commended the employees at the institution for their hard work. Chairman Bilawal advocated for an end to the politics of hate. He expressed concern regarding the current political climate which does not cater towards resolving the issues of the people. He said that the solutions to the problems of the people should take precedence instead of someone’s imprisonment or release.

“The proposed changes to cybercrime law aims to further stifle the freedom of expression through setting up of multiple authorities under executive control, enlarging foot print of unaccountable intelligence agencies and giving sweeping powers to the executive not only over the contents of the message but also the messengers, namely the social media platforms”

This has been stated in a statement by former President Farhatullah Babar, president of the Human Rights Cell of the PPP as the proposed changes to the cybercrime law became public today.

He said that a highly disturbing aspect of the law is that henceforth the Social Media Authority will form Joint Investigation Teams (JITs) with members drawn from unnamed intelligence agencies to investigate allegations against journalists, social media users and the general public.

“This is a dangerous enlargement of the already large footprint of unaccountable state agencies in governance and deeply impacts all strata of society, not merely journalists and social media users”.

What the JITs with dominance of intelligence agencies are known to have done in the past needs no elaboration, he said.

The law stipulates creation of a government appointed Tribunal to adjudicate appeals against arbitrary decisions of another executive-appointed body called Social Media Authority in the cases of freedom of expression. As if appeal against an executive authority before another executive authority is not enough of a mockery, the law also restricts the tiers of judicial appeal to only one before the Supreme Court.

This limitation of judicial tiers amounts to extending the torture of aggrieved citizen for exposing corruption, malpractices and skeletons in the cupboards of high and mighty, he said.

He said that so far, the arbitrary shut downs of social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) were denied by the government. Under the new law the Social Media Authority is empowered to close down any social media platform. Apart from powers to block the content it shall have the powers to block the carrier of the content.

“The specter of disappearing both the creator and carrier of the message without oversight and accountability on the basis of reports of unaccountable agencies is frightening”.

Farhatullah Babar urged the members of Parliament to reject it saying “it will stand out as black line in the CVs of members voting it”. He also reminded that when the PTI government introduced similar curbs the opposition at the time stoutly resisted it. Now in power they can go back on their earlier stance only at the peril of their credibility and public standing. “There is enough baggage that the parliament carries and it is best to not add to it”.

The Human Rights Cell of the Pakistan Peoples has deplored the inordinate delay in the setting up Minority Commission as mandated in the 2014 Supreme Court Verdict and called for urgent action.

“At a time when minorities in the country are faced with increasing incidents of intolerance, forced conversions, misuse of religion-based laws and discrimination it is imperative that an independent Commission be set up under an Act of the Parliament in accordance with SC verdict”, said the president of the HR Cell in a statement today.

The Commission must be formed under an Act of Parliament and not an executive order, he said.

Referring to the one-man commission formed by the SC itself over a decade ago under Mr. Shoaib Suddle he said that expertise gained by it should be utilized to provide initial guidance to the new statutory Commission and then fade away. The one-man commission may have been exceptional but structures dependent on individuals are fragile, he said.

In addition to the Commission at the federal level there will also have to be provincial commissions under the 18^th Amendment. Since it involves Pakistan’s international commitments the federal government should take the lead.

The federal legislation may also serve as prototype for provincial Assemblies to consider adopting it and set up their own Minorities Commission just as they have their own commissions on Right to Information, the Status of Women and provincial human rights commissions. For a population of nearly 250 million with significant number of minorities under siege there is clearly need for commissions in all the provinces as well.

The independent Commission should be under the Ministry of Human Rights instead of Ministry of Religious Affairs. “The religious affairs ministry is already over-burdened with Haj matters and it is basically a human rights issue and not a religious issue”.

The federal statutory Commission must be based on Paris Principles to ensure autonomy. At present none of the statutory commissions like the National Commission on Human Rights, National Commission of Sgatus of Women and the National Commission of the Rights of the Child is based on Paris Principles and that was why they have no right to vote at international platforms like the UN Human Rights Council, he said

Farhatullah Babar said that the statutory Commission should have the representatives of minorities instead of bureaucrats dominating it.

Its broad-based functions should include implementation of the 5% job quota, oversight of issues in Evacuee Property Trust, monitoring of implementation of relevant international agreements & court verdict, visit to detention centres where minorities are kept, besides making recommendations for appropriate legislation, he further said. 

Karachi/Islamabad, January 21, 2025: The inauguration of the Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Block at Global Hub Girls’ Cadet College Malir was graced today by the First Lady of Pakistan and MNA, Her Excellency Mohtarma Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, as the Chief Guest. This milestone event celebrates a transformative step in empowering young women through education and leadership opportunities in Pakistan.

The ceremony was attended by notable dignitaries, including Commander Sohaib, CEO of Girls’ Cadet College Malir; Abdul Qadir Jaffer, Patron-in-Chief of Jaffer Foundation; Sardar Shah, Sindh’s Minister for Education; and Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho, Sindh’s Minister for Health, who served as Guests of Honour. Numerous distinguished personalities from education, health, and government sectors also participated, showing their commitment to this vital initiative.

The event commenced with a Guard of Honour presented by female cadets from Cadet College Jhang to the Chief Guest. Following this, First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari unveiled the Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Block, a dedicated facility symbolizing progress, opportunity, and hope for girls’ education in Pakistan.

Addressing the gathering, Aseefa Bhutto Zardari emphasized the significance of education for young women. “Today, we honor the vision of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, who believed in the transformative power of education for all, especially for women. This block is more than just a building—it is a testament to her dream of a Pakistan where every girl has the tools to shape her future and lead with confidence.”

She further added, “Educated women are the cornerstone of a prosperous society. By investing in their education, we are investing in the future of Pakistan. I am deeply moved to see the dedication of the staff, the enthusiasm of the students, and the unwavering support from all stakeholders who made this vision a reality.”

Speakers at the event highlighted the importance of initiatives like the Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Block, which are designed to foster leadership, cultivate skills, and provide quality education for young women. They applauded the role of the Jaffer Foundation and Falcon Education System in realizing this vision.

“The Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Block is not just a building; it is a beacon of hope for generations to come,” the First Lady remarked. “This facility will nurture leaders who will contribute to our nation and beyond. I am proud to be part of this journey towards empowering women through education.”

Sindh Education Minister Sardar Shah assured the full support of the Sindh government, stating, “Education is a fundamental right, and we are committed to supporting such institutions that focus on the betterment of our youth.” Health Minister Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho extended her ministry’s assistance for the health and well-being of the school’s students and staff.

The inauguration of the Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Block marks a significant stride towards gender equality and educational progress in the region. As part of the Global Hub School’s vision, the facility represents an unwavering commitment to equipping young women with the skills, knowledge, and leadership capabilities necessary to build a brighter future for Pakistan and South Asia.

Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has said that the true strength of nations does not lie in guns or bullets but in their politics and cultural heritage. He stressed that nations that lose touch with their culture are destined to lag behind in progress.

According to a press release issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP underscored the historic role of the Sindh Assembly in Pakistan’s creation during a special ceremony held at the Sindh Assembly premises to unveil a commemorative plaque marking the inaugural session of the country’s first Constituent Assembly. He said, “The Pakistan Peoples Party believes that no individual, single power, or specific ideology alone builds a nation. It is through collective effort, hard work, and unity that nations are formed. Politics undoubtedly plays a significant role in this process.” He further added that he is personally committed to playing his part politically to strengthen this role.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari remarked, “I believe that, beyond politics, culture plays an even greater role. Nations that forget or distance themselves from their culture eventually lose their identity.” He emphasized that Pakistan has a long and ancient history, stating, “We can proudly claim that we are heirs to the Indus Civilization.” He further noted that the people of this land laid the foundations for agriculture, irrigation, and modern living thousands of years ago. “Even today, the historical sites in my hometown Larkana stand as a testament to that era,” he added.

Chairman PPP underlined the significant contributions of the people of this region in the creation of Pakistan, saying, “We established this country—look at how we did it. Was a single bullet fired? Did Pakistan come into existence because our military was the most powerful at the time? No, it was the unity of the entire nation, including politicians, that led to the success of a historic struggle.”

Discussing the challenges faced by the country, Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari stressed the need for unity and cultural revival to tackle modern-day challenges. “I am convinced that, just like in the past, the people of Pakistan and the inhabitants of this land will prosper. However, if we fight among ourselves and fail to understand that strength lies not in guns or bullets but in culture and politics, we may fall short of fulfilling the aspirations of the younger generation.” 

He also commended the role of electronic media in promoting Pakistani culture, entertainment, and arts, emphasizing the need to further advance these sectors.

Chairman emphasized the need for greater efforts to promote Pakistani culture, entertainment, and the arts. He pointed out that Western nations are not powerful merely because of their armies, weapons, or wealth. “If they are superpowers, it is because they embraced their culture to the extent that even your children listen to their artists’ music and watch their movies and television shows. This is true ‘soft power’—the struggle to win hearts and minds.” 

He lamented that had the vision of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto for cultural promotion been followed, Pakistani films, songs, and art might today enjoy global recognition comparable to that of Western nations.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari expressed strong support for establishing a modern Media University in Karachi and directed the Sindh Chief Minister to expedite the project through public-private partnership. He said that while culture and art in the past revolved around pens and brushes, today, technology like computers, artificial intelligence, and digital space have taken over. “We want to equip our youth with modern facilities so they can represent Pakistan globally,” he added. He envisioned a future where, alongside politicians, cultural representatives from every city and region of Pakistan contribute to the country’s progress.

The event was attended by PPP Women’s Wing President and MPA Faryal Talpur, PPP Sindh President Nisar Ahmed Khuhro, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, Speaker Sindh Assembly Awais Qadir Shah, along with ministers, assembly members, and a large number of media personnel. The ceremony concluded with Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari unveiling a commemorative plaque to mark the historic occasion of the inaugural session of the country’s first Constituent Assembly.

Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has paid glowing tributes to Shaheed Fazil Rahoo on his 38th martyrdom anniversary, remembering him as a beacon of resistance, a champion of peasants’ rights, and a symbol of unyielding commitment to democracy.

According to the press release issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP, in his message, lauded Shaheed Fazil Rahoo’s exceptional contributions to the Movement for the Restoration of Democracy (MRD) under the leadership of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. “Shaheed Fazil Rahoo stood tall in the face of oppression and made the ultimate sacrifice for the rights of the downtrodden and the protection of democratic values,” he added.

According to a press release issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP extended heartfelt condolences to all the families, including Pakistanis, who lost their loved ones in the incident. “The loss of precious lives in yet another boat tragedy is deeply distressing for me,” he said.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari emphasized that the Pakistani Embassy in Spain and the federal government must ensure the immediate repatriation of the victims’ bodies and provide accurate information to the affected families. He added that this tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for effective measures to combat the heinous crime of human trafficking.

The human rights cell of the PPP is deeply concerned over reports that some unscrupulous elements ensnare unsuspecting innocent citizens in fabricated blasphemy cases for extortion. According to the reports offensive imagery overlaid with religious texts is disseminated through social media platforms by hacking citizens’ mobile devices and other unethical means and then using it as pretext to register false cases in collusion with unscrupulous elements in the law enforcing agencies.

In a statement today the president of the human rights cell ex-senator Farhatullah Babar said that the issue was first reported by the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) in its report documenting its investigation into Blasphemy cases during the year October 2023 to October 2024. It said that young men were entrapped through female operatives behind pseudonyms to lure them in unethical online engagement and then filing cases against them. The report not only pointed out “disregard of due process” but also said that “arrests were often carried out by private individuals rather than law enforcement”  

Last year also a special report by the Additional Inspector General Police, Special Branch Punjab, Lahore, had acknowledged the existence of a suspicious gang trapping youth for, he said.

Farhatullah Babar said even higher officers of the FIA had also acknowledged the existence of such a racket. An office order by the cybercrime wing circulated among all officers acknowledging that some officers had “knitted an unholy net in connivance with professional women to trap innocent citizens” warned of serious action against those involved. It also directed that “no raid will be conducted and no FIR will be registered without prior approval”, he said.

He said that the organized nature of this network was demonstrated recently when a hateful defamatory campaign was launched on social media against Justice Muhammad Iqbal Kalhoro of SHC after the Judge granted post-arrest bail to some accused thus implicated in such false cases.

The Sindh Bar Council passed a Resolution last month denouncing the campaign against the judge and demanded a transparent and impartial investigation into the alleged collusion between FIA officials and criminal networks exploiting youth under false allegations. The resolution said “no one should be above the law, including groups exploiting religious sentiments for personal or financial gain” and called for a “transparent, swift and impartial investigation into false allegations of blasphemy”.

Farhatullah Babar urged all political parties, the parliament, the law enforcing agencies, the religious scholars, the human rights bodies and the bar and the media to take these alarming reports seriously and not sweep them under the rug. Recalling that the Senate Human Rights Committee in March 2018 had also made some recommendations in this regard which were endorsed by the Senate he also called for the implementation of its report.