KARACHI: The military establishment came up on Thursday with a message which suggested that the “Karachi operation” was not going to end anytime soon as the Rangers-led exercise was “free of pace” and “there is no doubt that it would continue till the achievement of its target”.

The fresh resolve came from the Karachi Corps Commander Lt Gen Naveed Mukhtar while addressing the passing-out parade at Pakistan Rangers, Sindh’s Training Centre and School and where he briefly focused on ‘Karachi operation’, its results so far, challenges and future line of action.

“There is no doubt that the Karachi operation would continue till the completion of its target,” an Inter-Services Public Relations statement quoted Lt Gen Mukhtar as saying. “The targets of the Karachi operation are free of pace. Pakistan Rangers would continue to play its role to provide security to the people of the province. I appreciate the contribution and cooperation extended by the people as we have to move forward together towards the fearless destination.”

The corps commander’s thoughts came a week after Army Chief General Raheel Sharif “vowed to go to any length” for peace in the city apparently in a clear message that there would be no let-up in the actions under the “Karachi operation”. The army chief had demonstrated his commitment during his visit to the Corps Headquarters Karachi where he met heads of intelligence apparatuses of the armed forces, the corps commander and the Sindh Rangers chief. He commended their efforts for peace in the city only two days after announcing that he would retire on the due date.

As political circles and media are often seen debating the issue of extension of special powers to Rangers in Karachi, the statements and announcements from the military establishment hardly carry any doubt about their plans to continue with the exercise for the city’s peace which has been restored to a large extent.

The Thursday’s address by the Karachi Corps Commander is seen in the same context as just two days after a three-month extension in special powers to Rangers, he clearly hinted that the operation could go to any extent without considering pace and time limit.

“On one hand, many successes have been achieved during Karachi operation, on the other revival of hope is crucial part of this all exercise,” he said. “We have to assure that atmosphere to people of Karachi where they are free of any fear and carry only sense of protection. The credit to successful operation in Karachi goes to officers and soldiers of the Pakistan Rangers, Sindh. They have played key role for restoration of peace.”

While praising Rangers, he said the paramilitary force was known for its bravery and its contribution for a strong and peaceful society was recognised by every segment.

“Now you are no more an individual. You are an institution now and your every act would represent this institution,” he said while addressing the passed out soldiers.

Published in Dawn, February 5th, 2016