ISLAMABAD: The Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif has strongly criticized statements made by Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman regarding the sacrifices of Pakistan’s armed forces.
In this regard, Khawaja Asif said Maulana Fazlur Rehman is a seasoned politician and a respected religious leader, and therefore greater responsibility is expected from him in the choice of words, particularly on matters concerning national security and the sacrifices made by security personnel.
The Defence Minister stated that linking the sacrifices of soldiers to their salaries is unjust and undermines the spirit of patriotism that motivates members of the armed forces.
He focused on that no individual lays down his life merely for financial compensation.
The willingness of soldiers to sacrifice their lives is rooted in their belief, sense of duty, commitment to the nation, and deep love for their homeland.
He said while political leaders and citizens may disagree with government policies, military strategies, or institutional decisions, such differences should not diminish the respect owed to those who have sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.
In this sense, the Defence Minister noted that Pakistan continues to face the challenge of terrorism. He said members of the Pakistan Armed Forces, law enforcement agencies, and civilians continue to lose their lives in efforts to protect the country.
He stated that the bodies of young men are still returning home wrapped in the national flag, making it inappropriate to attribute their sacrifices solely to their employment.
Khawaja Asif further said that describing these sacrifices as a consequence of receiving a salary is not legitimate political criticism but reflects moral insensitivity.
He added that such statements have the potential to hurt the sentiments of thousands of families, including the relatives of martyrs, injured personnel, widows, orphaned children, and grieving parents.
