Punjab information minister condemns the release of May 9 rioters, warns of repercussions

Lahore: Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari has expressed serious concerns over the release of individuals involved in the May 9 riots, calling it a “wake-up call” and warning that such actions could lead to future incidents of unrest.

In a reaction to the pardon of 19 convicts involved in the May 9 tragedy, Bukhari stated that those who became the fuel for the violence and chaos had ruined their lives. She pointed out that while their parents had pleaded for mercy, the actions of these individuals on the streets reflected their involvement in inciting disorder.

The minister stressed that those released after the pardon could have the potential to repeat the same behaviour. She emphasised that the Pakistan Army, which had extended some leniency to these individuals, should reconsider their approach moving forward.

Bukhari also warned that such leniency could lead to further disruptions, stating, “The release of those involved on May 9 is a serious alarm. If these rioters are given relief, similar incidents could occur again and again.”

Highlighting the troubling behaviour of the May 9 convicts, she noted that their actions after being pardoned should be alarming to everyone. “By seeking forgiveness but continuing to exhibit the same violent behaviour, they are also blocking the path for others,” she added.

In her criticism of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Bukhari accused the party of spreading false narratives, saying, “PTI members lie consistently; they even claim that crows are white.” She further criticised PTI for allegedly holding events to provoke the May 9 rioters and incite unrest

Addressing the issue of the founder of PTI, Bukhari dismissed any claims regarding jail reforms, saying the real agenda was to secure relief for PTI’s founder. “The founder of PTI is in jail eating local chickens, and there is nothing more left to do for his comfort,” she remarked.

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