THIS is with reference to the report ‘Army sends out big guns to plead its case’ and the editorial ‘Burnt bridges’ (Oct 28) both of which related to the coverage and analysis of the televised joint press conference by directors-general of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). The press conference was quite revealing and shocking, to say the least, for this elderly Pakistani committed to the cause of patriotism.

The revelations should be an eye-opener for political parties, their leaders and supporters. It is time for the political opposition in the country to pause and ponder, to do some soul-searching, to stop forthwith all unnecessary, invalid criticism of national institutions, particularly the armed forces, that it has been doing in an uncalled-for, unwarranted manner.

The opposition leaders are doing whatever they are doing without realising the great damage they are doing to national security, integrity and stability. In doing so, intentionally or otherwise, they are strengthening the evil hands of the enemies of Pakistan.

One can duly realise the bitter fact that the ISI chief was compelled to come and address the press conference along with ISPR chief as Pakistan Army was being targeted through baseless criticism by some politicians for their own vested interests and owing to the ulterior and devilish motives and designs that seem to be up their sleeves.

Everyone living within the geographical territory of Pakistan is a Pakistani. This is stating the obvious, but some people seem to be forgetting it. The national institutions should continue working within their respective frameworks, and, on top of everything, the armed forces personnel due to whose efforts and sacrifices we are in a free and independent state, need to be addressed and talked about the way they deserve to be addressed and talked about.

The young are the future of the country, and misleading, misguiding and poisoning their impressionable minds is a big crime as it amounts to hitting at the very roots of the future of the motherland. If this is not criminal, what is?

Those indulging in anti-state, anti-people activities should forthwith mend their ways, stop talking negatively, and utter words only after due consideration before their own workers and supporters turn against them for the love of Pakistan.

M. Z. Rifat

Lahore

Published in Dawn, November 2nd, 2022