DG ISPR Denounces Digital Terrorism, Updates on Security Efforts

Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), criticized the inadequate legal response to “digital terrorism,” which he said has allowed fake news and propaganda to proliferate. Addressing a press conference in Rawalpindi, he emphasized that the law is failing to curb misinformation, particularly on social media.

Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry assured that the Pakistan Army is committed to addressing these issues, stating that legal action will be taken against those spreading propaganda or fake news, regardless of their position or location.

“First of all, the first line of defence against the digital terrorism is law. Unfortunately, the falsehood and propaganda is very high on social media such as fake news and doctored images are posted to create a confusion created in the minds of the people,” the chief military spokesperson said.

“But the law is not taking its course against it. But the armed forces take it very seriously,” he said adding that a legal action will be taken those — either in Pakistan or abroad — involved in running propaganda against the military.

Regarding ongoing political developments, he reiterated the army’s stance on the May 9 riots, asserting that there has been no change in their position since their May 7, 2023, press conference.

The DG ISPR also condemned the Baloch Yakjehti Committee, labeling it a “proxy” for terrorist organizations and criminal elements. He accused the group of trying to undermine law enforcement efforts and disrupt development projects through foreign-backed agitation.

In terms of security operations, DG ISPR reported that Pakistani forces conducted 23,622 intelligence-based operations this year, including 2,045 in the past 15 days, resulting in the elimination of 24 terrorists. He highlighted that more than a hundred operations are carried out daily by the Pakistan Army, intelligence agencies, and law enforcement.

He also addressed the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), recently designated as “Fitna al-Khawarij” by the government, emphasizing that the group and its associates are considered “outcasts” with no legitimate connection to Islam or Pakistan.

General Chaudhry noted that 139 security personnel have been martyred in the first seven months of 2024, affirming the nation’s tribute to their sacrifice. He assured that the fight against terrorism will persist until the last terrorist is eliminated.

Additionally, he highlighted the Pakistan Army’s involvement in various socioeconomic projects across underdeveloped regions, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, focusing on education, health, and economic development.