The Pakistani government has set up a Joint Task Force (JTF) to identify individuals involved in “propaganda against the state” following violent protests in Islamabad. These protests were led by supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, seeking his release from jail.
Clashes Result in Casualties and Conflicting Claims
The protests, organized by Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party on November 24, resulted in clashes that left three paramilitary soldiers and a police officer dead, according to government sources. PTI claims 12 of its supporters died, although conflicting accounts have emerged. Authorities have denied these allegations.
Crackdown on Misinformation
The Interior Ministry announced plans to hold social media users accountable for spreading “fake” reports of deaths during the protests. It emphasized that law enforcement personnel deployed for crowd control did not carry live ammunition, and the military was not involved in direct clashes with protesters.
Government Denounces “Malicious Campaigns”
A statement from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s office condemned a “malicious campaign” allegedly aimed at discrediting state institutions, especially security forces. It accused local and foreign media platforms of fabricating stories and images to incite unrest and promote political agendas.
Joint Task Force Responsibilities
The newly-formed JTF, comprising officials from various ministries, intelligence agencies, and the Pakistan Telecommunications Authority, will:
- Identify and track individuals spreading “fake and misleading news” domestically and internationally.
- Investigate the origins of the propaganda campaign.
- Propose measures to close policy gaps and prevent future misinformation.
The task force will present its findings to the government within 10 days.
Broader Political Context
The PTI has staged multiple protests this year to demand Khan’s release and challenge the results of the February 8 elections, which it alleges were manipulated. The government and election authorities have denied these claims.
Economic Fallout of Protests
The recent protests caused significant disruption, with the government estimating Rs192 billion in daily economic losses. This marks the most intense demonstration in the capital since the elections.
