MQM-PTI Ideological Partnership

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday indicated that the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) and coalition partners Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) could contest the next elections as allies. "It seems that the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf could join hands with the Muttahida Qaumi Movement in the next elections," said the premier during his speech in Islamabad at the stone laying ceremony of Hyderabad University. The prime minister said that the PTI and MQM-P have similar ideologies. "I always used to think that MQM's viewpoint — the things that they spoke of — was closely aligned with that of PTI," he said. "Our only problem was that of militancy which we both thought was wrong." MQM and PTI could contest next elections together: PM Khan ( April 04, 2019) https://www.dawn.com/news/1473898 Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday indicated that his Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) and the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) might contest the next elections from the same platform. Addressing the foundation-stone laying ceremony of Hyderabad University at the Prime Minister Office, he went on to praise the two ministers belonging to the MQM. “Both Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui and Farogh Naseem are the finest members of the federal cabinet due to their conduct and knowledge,” PM Khan said. PTI, MQM may jointly contest next elections: Imran (April 05, 2019) https://www.dawn.com/news/1474003 MQM-P convener Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui and fellow party leaders on Saturday highlighted what they feel is the disproportionate division of resources in Sindh, urging Prime Minister Imran Khan to intervene and invoke Article 149 of the Constitution in order to help the province's urban populace "get their long-deprived due share". Siddiqui, who is also the minister for Information Technology in the federal cabinet, slammed what he described as Sindh's "ethnocentric" government for allegedly hoarding the province's resources and powers. MQM-P urges PM to intervene, 'help' Sindh's urban centres get 'their due share' (April 13, 2019) https://www.dawn.com/news/1475861

Imran Khan explains MQM's Links with India , Indian R and A W and Kulbhushan Jadhav

General Pervez Musharraf's Secret Links with MQM (Meray Mutabiq GEO TV 2009)

Federal Minister Mr Khalid Maqbool on PTI Leaders Azam Swati and Shibli Faraz

Mayor Karachi Mr Waseem Akhtar on Mr Imran Khan and Pakistan Army

Imran Khan's allies Dr Zulfiqar Mirza, MQM and others at each others throats

LAHORE, May 14: Tehreek-i-Insaaf Chairman Imran Khan has accused President Pervez Musharraf and MQM leader Altaf Husain of bloodshed in Karachi and called upon the opposition to unite on one-point agenda of getting rid of Musharraf and dictatorship. Addressing a press conference after presiding over a meeting of the Tehreek central executive committee here on Monday evening, he said the disturbance in Karachi was not unexpected because the issue had been raised in the National Assembly session only a day earlier, but the government did nothing to prevent the bloodshed. “Instead of taking steps for maintaining law and order in Karachi, it got the MQM rally arranged intentionally to sabotage the reception of Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry which was expected to be much better than Lahore.” He said President Musharraf was not tired of talking about enlightened moderation on the one hand and had joined hands with “top terrorist” MQM leader Altaf Hussain on the other for remaining in power. “The hardened criminals of MQM set at liberty by the government continued firing bullets at the people but the police and the Rangers did not fire even a single teargas shell at them. Ten PTI men were among those who sustained bullet injuries and were under treatment in hospitals.” The PTI, he said, was consulting lawyers to lodge an FIR against Gen Pervez Musharraf and Altaf Husain for the Karachi killings. PTI to sue Blair for ‘harbouring’ MQM leader May 15, 2007 https://www.dawn.com/news/247030

 Imran Khan praises Altaf Hussain and MQM and this is after 12 May 2007 Massacre in Karachi

MQM Imran Khan Ideological Similarities 

Did Imran Khan visit MQM Head office 90 or Not 

KARACHI, May 26: The Muttahida Qaumi Movement has announced that it will collect evidence about the “bad character” of Imran Khan and will submit it in the National Assembly for getting him unseated as MNA under Articles 62 & 63 of the Constitution. “We will also take every possible legal action if needed to unseat Mr Khan from the National Assembly,” MQM MNA Syed Haider Abbas Rizvi told a crowded news conference at the Karachi Press Club on Saturday. He was accompanied by Dr Farooq Sattar, Anwar Alam, Faisal Sabzwari and other MNAs, MPAs, and members of the MQM coordination committee. The press conference was part of a series of briefings being held by the MQM leadership to counter the allegations levelled by Pakistan Tehrik-i-Insaf chief Imran Khan and his threat to file a case against British Prime Minister Tony Blair in the United Kingdom for giving political asylum to MQM leader Altaf Husain who, according to Mr Khan, heads a fascist organisation. Mr Khan in his press briefings and statements has held President Pervez Musharraf and Altaf Hussain responsible for the May 12 bloodbath in Karachi. Mr Rizvi said the MQM was collecting evidence against Imran Khan and it would take all possible legal and constitutional steps to have him unseated from the National Assembly. He said the MQM always welcomed criticism on party policies or difference of opinion on principles but the character assassination of his leader could not be tolerated. Faisal Sabzwari disclosed that the MQM members in the Sindh Assembly would move a resolution condemning Imran Khan for character assassination of Altaf Hussain. “We will not only move a resolution in the provincial assembly but will expose Imran Khan at every forum. He had destroyed the career in cricket of many youths belonging to Karachi and people had not forgotten it,” he added. Reference: KARACHI: MQM drive against Imran in full swing May 27, 2007 https://www.dawn.com/news/248901

Imran Khan was in touch with not only MQM but Altaf Hussain as well even after 12 May 2007 Massacre

Mr Naeem ul Haq (Political Adviser to Imran Khan) on MQM's Ideology

 

Mayor Karachi Mr Waseem Akhtar on Imran Khan's Secret Alliance with Taliban and TTP

Mr Naeem ul Haq (Political Adviser to Imran Khan) and Zahra Shahid's Murder

Mr Naeem ul Haq (Political Adviser to Imran Khan) and Zahra Shahid's Murder

ISLAMABAD: After years of political animosity, Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Altaf Hussain’s Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) appear to be coming closer as the two leaders held their first telephonic conversation and exchanged good will with each other. In a rare move, Imran Khan called Altaf Hussain on Saturday and appreciated the ‘bold’ stance taken by the latter on national issues, separate but identical statements issued by media offices of both the parties said. The two leaders agreed to bury their past differences and vowed to work together for the betterment of the country, the statements added. PTI and MQM have been considered staunch rivals in the past, at times holding public rallies and resorting to personal attacks against each other’s leadership. Recently, however, the two parties have come closer, mainly due to back-channel efforts by some common friends and political leaders in Pakistan, observers say. The second-tier leadership of the two parties prepared the ground that culminated in direct interaction between their leaders. During their conversation, both sides discussed common agenda points and vowed to work together to achieve their goals. Altaf Hussain has recently started taking a tough stance in public, on issues like unabated US predator attacks inside Pakistani territory, release of CIA contractor Raymond Davis and Dr Aafia Siddiqui. The same issues take centre-stage in Imran Khan, and several right-wing parties’, political agendas. Published in The Express Tribune, March 20th, 2011. Burying the hatchet: Imran calls up Altaf, agrees to work together https://tribune.com.pk/story/135283/burying-the-hatchet-imran-calls-up-altaf-agrees-to-work-together/ ISLAMABAD, May 19: Chairman of the Tehrik-i-Insaf Imran Khan has said that a legal team is being constituted to file a case against MQM leader Altaf Hussain in London for killing innocent people. Addressing a function organised by the Islamabad Bar Association, Imran Khan termed MQM a terrorist organisation and said it had never been a political party but was a group of ‘goondas’ prospering under the patronage of a dictator. On May 12, he said, the MQM has crossed all limits of terrorism in Karachi and killed innocent people with impunity. He said that Altaf Hussain was being sheltered by British Prime Minister Tony Blair, who had killed Muslims in the name of war on terrorism. Criticising the government’s unwise policies, he said while inflation soared, about Rs8 billion to Rs9 billion were being utilised for the construction of the new GHQ and millions of rupees were spent by the government to stage a rally in Islamabad.—Online Case to be filed against Altaf: Imran May 20, 2007 https://www.dawn.com/news/247885 

Who arranged MQM - Imran Khan - Altaf Hussain Meeting and Truce in London

MQM - Imran Khan Ideological Partnership, Jamaat-e-Islami and General Pervez Musharraf

KARACHI: The Muttahida Qaumi Movement said on Sunday the whole nation knew as to who was providing funds to Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan. Commenting on Mr Khan’s remarks earlier in the day that the MQM should approach a court of law against the BBC which had reported that the MQM had allegedly got money from the Indian government, the coordination committee of the MQM said it was for the MQM to decide and not Mr Khan whether to sue the BBC. It said that Mr Khan needed the people of Karachi only for fundraising or at the time of election, as he never tried to know the problems of Karachiites. Published in Dawn, July 6th, 2015 MQM’s rejoinder to Imran https://www.dawn.com/news/1192639 Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) chief Altaf Hussain has called for the setting up of a technocratic government in the country for a period of two years, DawnNews reported. The demand came as the MQM chief expressed his concern over the present political crisis during a meeting with Punjab Governor Chaudhry Mohammad Sarwar in London. The statement comes amid rumours that differences have developed between Sharif brothers and Sarwar over governance issues and that the latter is planning to resign. Sarwar has denied the rumours saying there was no truth in reports that he was going to resign upon his return from London. Hussain also emphasised on what he believes as the need to divide the province of Sindh into several administrative units. He had earlier suggested that new provinces be created in all existing provinces of the country, including Sindh. Technocrats should govern country for two years: Altaf Hussain https://www.dawn.com/news/1133794 Muttahida Qaumi Movement chief Altaf Hussain has sought formation of a technocrat government for two years, without derailing democracy, for “ruthless accountability” of those involved in looting and plundering the country. “If any of my brothers, sisters or relatives is found guilty they should not be spared. No leniency should be shown towards them,” he told reporters in London late on Monday night after meeting Punjab Governor Chau­dhry Mohammad Sarwar. According to an MQM press release issued on Tuesday, Mr Hussain praised Governor Sarwar and went on to say that he should be made prime minister in the technocrat government. “In my opinion, Chaudhry Sarwar is the only person in Pakistan who has the courage to speak truth.” The MQM chief said he did not support a demand by the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf and Pakistan Awami Tehreek for the resignation of the prime minister. “Nawaz Sharif enjoys a two-thirds majority in parliament. If some people think that elections were rigged, an inquiry should be carried out to satisfy both sides. We can solve matters through dialogue,” he added. Altaf seeks formation of technocrats’ government Published in Dawn, September 24th, 2014 https://www.dawn.com/news/1133954 

 PTI, MQM, Musharraf have always plead the case of Technocrat Government

Alliance with Parties like MQM not Possible says Imran

MQM is a Mafia says Imran Khan

PESHAWAR, Sept 7: Muttahida Qaumi Movement chief Altaf Hussain has said that whether President Gen Pervez Musharraf remains in uniform or decides to doff it is a secondary issue because every government in Pakistan has sought protection of the military uniform. Speaking at the Peshawar Press Club's 'Meet the Press' programme here on Tuesday, he said the issue of uniform would be there as long as a people's government was not established in the country. Every ruler in the past had sought the help of the 'uniform' and compromised on principles, he added. He said that former prime ministers, including Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif, had formed their governments with the help of the 'uniform'. The Jamaat-i-Islami supported Gen Ziaul Haq, who also was in uniform, for 11 long years, but now JI chief Qazi Hussain Ahmed was opposing a president in uniform to hoodwink the nation. Musharraf's uniform a secondary issue: Altaf September 08, 2004 https://www.dawn.com/news/369907 WASHINGTON, Aug 9: Muttahida Qaumi Movement’s deputy convener Dr Farooq Sattar has urged opposition parties to stop forcing the president to divest his uniform. He was speaking at a gathering in Washington on the party’s 25th anniversary. The MQM’s leader said the present system was not ideal but “even an incomplete and moth-eaten democracy was better than no democracy.” He also urged the opposition parties not to waste their energies on the demand for abolishing the Legal Framework Order because “even removing the LFO will not ensure that there will be no threat to democracy in the future.” Dr Sattar said that in 1999, former prime minister Nawaz Sharif had already removed the Eighth Amendment, becoming the most powerful prime minister in Pakistan’s history. “But in less than 10 months after he removed the Eighth amendment, the parliament was dismissed and Mr Sharif was sacked.” “LFO or no LFO, uniform or no uniform,” said Mr. Sattar, “democracy will remain weak so long as democratic institutions are not strengthened.” Mr Sattar said that the same religious leaders “saw no harm in accepting, even kissing, Gen Zia’s uniform. Then why this aversion to Musharraf’s uniform? If you believe in a principle, apply it equally to all.” “You cannot say that the LFO is OK for participating in elections, even for filing your nomination papers for the prime minister’s post, as Maulana Fazlur Rahman did. But when that process is over, it should be thrown out,” he added. Mr Sattar urged Pakistan’s religious parties to stop doing new “experiments with the country every day. In the present international scenario, the country cannot afford such experiments.” The MQM leader said that in a country where “prime ministers are tailored to meet the needs of the establishment and parliaments are made on order, you cannot have political stability.” He suggested three basic changes for bringing stability to the country: a consistent and sustainable fiscal development policy, constitutional and political reforms and devolution of power and resources. Mr Sattar said that unless the federation’s powers were decentralized and resources distributed equally, there would be no justice and no stability. He said the government took “a 180-degree somersault” when it dumped the Taliban after the 9-11 incident. “A similar decision is now needed to ban jihadi activities at home,” he added. The MQM leader also urged the government to resolve the Kashmir dispute peacefully because unless it is resolved “we will continue to waste our precious resources on unproductive activities.” MQM backs Musharraf on LFO, uniform August 10, 2003 https://www.dawn.com/news/134480

Curious Case of PTI/MQM Joint Leader Minister Farogh Naseem and 12 May 2007 Massacre in Karachi

Mr Imran Khan Explaining the Similarities between PTI and MQM (Geo TV 2007)

MQM, Altaf Hussain and Mehran Bank Scandal 

Islamabad: At a time when Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) formed a new team to record statements of two retired generals in Mehran Bank Scam (Asghar Khan case), Yousaf Memon Advocate made startling revelations about Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) which, according to him, was sponsored by the then Chief of Army Staff General Mirza Aslam Beg. In his statement, Yousaf Memon, who is cousin of MQM Pakistan chief Farooq Sattar, claimed that he came close to Younis Habib, key character in Asghar Khan case, in 1988-89, when he was zonal chief of HBL, Karachi. “He [Younis Habib] called me to deliver a message to Altaf Hussain from [General] Aslam Beg. I was actively involved in MQM and politics by that time as Farooq Sattar was my nephew. He said that General Aslam Beg wanted to meet Altaf Hussain,” Yousaf Memon revealed in his statement recorded by FIA which is all set to summon General (R) Aslam Beg and Lt General (R) Asad Durrani — two key accused in this case who doled out state money among politicians to pollute 1990 elections in Pakistan -- this week. The Supreme Court directed federal government to ensure implementation of the verdict of this case within a week, even though Premier Abbasi can summon cabinet meeting to decide next course of action against the accused. Yousaf Memon, who later joined Pakistan People’s Party, further revealed, “First such meeting [between Altaf Hussain and General Beg] was arranged at central avenue DHA [Karachi]. After courtesies were exchanged the discussion started on political scenario and it was discussed that then prime minister Benazir Bhutto was not running government property. In this regard they had planned a no-confidence motion against Benazir Bhutto government in National Assembly. It was decided that Younis Habib would provide funds for Altaf Hussain/MOM for their support in vote of no confidence. Altaf Hussain said that he needed transportation for his party. In this regard 20 Mehran vehicles and 1 Cultus were bought for MQM.” Afterwards second meeting was held at another house after 15-20 days, Yousaf Memon told FIA investigator. “During this meeting it was decided as to which steps would be taken once no confidence motion was successful. It was I who had brought Nawaz Sharif from Punjab House for the meeting. A final agreement was also signed. In order to keep a proof of this, Altaf Hussain had got the ceremony photographed and kept the two rolls with him. During this meeting asking prime minister Benazir Bhutto to get a vote of confidence was also discussed. President Ghulam lshaq Khan was contacted and it was decided that no confidence motion would be the option chosen. It was I who had typed the text of no confidence motion,” Yousaf Memon continued to reveal. Yousaf Memon, on directions of General Durrani, is accused of distribution Rs70 million among politicians. Yousaf Memon further told FIA that “MNAs present there signed the document and it was introduced in lower house of Parliament. A lot of horse trading was done but eventually the motion was defeated. During this whole process, Nawaz Sharif got wiser and he had realised that if the government did eventually fall, it would be Mustafa Jataoi who would become the prime minister and not he.” He further got recorded in his statement that during this process Altaf Hussain became jittery and tried to contact President lshaq Khan on telephone but the President did not talk to him and Colonel Ajaib, secretary to President, said that the President was asleep. After this General Beg was contacted who advised Altaf Hussain to leave Pakistan and stay in UK, where his stay would be made comfortable. “We were taken in British Airways fight and Saleem Wahidi travelled with us as our escort. He was in 1" class and we were in club class but he also sat with us for some time during the flight. Afterwards immigration was done in UK and a Pakistani High Commission vehicle (Mercedes 500 SEL) was there to receive us.” Yousaf Memon further revealed that they stayed in hotels and it was decided that they must agitate against the Pakistani government and it was suggested that they should either contact Saarc countries or OIC countries. It was upon this issue that differences arose between MQM leadership and him as leadership was in contact with India and therefore, he left UK. “I returned and I was directed to mark my attendance," daily in Nine Zero, the MOM HQ till Altaf Hussain returns. On August 22, Altaf Hussain returned and told that date he complied with the orders given to him. It was during this period that MOM (Haqeeqi) was created. He said that he fought elections against MOM and lost. Later on he joined Pakistan People's Party. He had best of relations with Younis Habib since that time and Rafiq Moon was their common friend he had a working relationship for distribution of funds 1989-90. “I knew during this time that these funds would be used during elections and I was also getting benefit from this activity as I was getting close to General Beg.” Yousaf Memon further said in his statement, “I knew at that time because of my law background that army chief could not enter political activity as per the constitution of Pakistan. I knew about existence of article 6 and its implications as I was a lawyer. I knew that army chief was indulging in political activities. I knew that I was becoming part of the activity and that it was unconstitutional. I also knew the consequences. My motivation was politics and not financial. I was getting close to leadership of the country and I expected this relationship to benefit me in later years as I could have become member of Senate etc. After assembly was dissolved, money started flowing through various accounts. Whenever money was put into some bank account I used to visit Islamabad and used to hand over the receipts to General Beg. My motivation was politics and not monetary as I have already mentioned.” He further revealed, “I was tasked to give money to Javed Hashmi. In the first step I invested Rs187 lacs with him in Cotton Ginning industry. It was my personal money. Later on, a meeting was arranged with Javed Hashmi, once General Beg and Nawaz Sharif had fallen apart over "doctrine of strategic defiance." Army wanted to have a pressure group in the National Assembly. I met General Beg and Younis Habib who gave me a task to take over Javed Hashmi. During this meeting Javed Hashmi also asked for making of a house as he needed to have a place with proper "drawing room" for getting people together and also asked for making funds available for alluring the politicians. Rs149 lacs were given to him for the purpose. He took this information to Shahbaz Sharif who took him to Nawaz Sharif. Upon getting the whole information, prime minister confronted General Aslam Beg.” Reference: Yousaf Memon accuses Gen Beg of sponsoring MQM May 16, 2018 https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/317305-yousaf-memon-accuses-gen-beg-of-sponsoring-mqm by Zahid Gishkori . Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Chairman Imran Khan Wednesday claimed that reopening the Asghar Khan case would help identify the “celestial beings”, against whom former premier Nawaz Sharif and incumbent Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi had said that their party would be up against in the upcoming general elections. Reopen Asghar Khan case to find who ‘aliens’ are: Imran MAY 10, 2018 https://dailytimes.com.pk/238064/reopen-asghar-khan-case-to-find-who-aliens-are-imran/

Deep Analysis on Middle East In connection with Pakistan and India.

(February 16, 2018) Taking a major decision, the army on Thursday announced that it is deploying troops in Saudi Arabia under an existing bilateral security pact. “In continuation of ongoing Pak-KSA bilateral security cooperation, a Pakistan Army contingent is being sent to KSA on training and advice mission,” the Inter-Services Public Relations announced after a meeting between Army Chief Gen Qamar Bajwa and Saudi Ambassador Nawaf Saeed Al-Maliki at the General Headquarters, which was said to be about “regional security situation”. Gen Bajwa had earlier this month quietly visited Saudi Arabia, where he stayed for nearly three days and his only known meetings were with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Commander of Ground Forces Lt Gen Prince Fahd bin Turki bin Abdulaziz. This was his second visit to the kingdom in two months. Disclosing the size of the deployment for the first time since the decision was announced, Dastagir said a total of 1,000 Pakistani troops are being sent to the Kingdom on a training mission. He said 1,600 Pakistani soldiers are already stationed in Saudi Arabia. February 19, 2018 The defence minister attempted to assure Senate that the troops will not be deployed outside the Kingdom's territory, but Chairman Rabbani expressed a lack of confidence in the assurance, saying this information was already known. "The House is not satisfied with your response," he told Dastagir, while Senator Farhatullah Babar stressed that "all concerns remain despite the defence minister's statement". "Has a decision been taken to deploy troops at the border of [the southern Saudi province of] Sharura," he asked. The Senate chairman told the defence minister that he could not hide any information from parliament, and even offered him the option of briefing the Senate on the issue in detail in an in-camera session."[But] don't give us a lollipop... we are not children," Rabbani told him. However, the defence minister turned down the offer, stressing that he could not divulge operational details of the mission. References : Army says troops being sent to Saudi Arabia by Baqir Sajjad Syed (Dawn February 16, 2018) Govt refuses to divulge 'operational details' of Pakistani troops' deployment to Saudi Arabia by Nadir Guramani (Dawn February 19, 2018)

Pakistan army clarifies on sending troops to Saudi Arabia

Extremist organisations are of two types. There are organisations which have been killing Pakistanis and fighting against the state of Pakistan and other type includes those organisations which have not indulged in any act of terrorism but are blamed by India and US for terrorism in neighbouring countries. Although the Pakistan army is fighting against all those terrorist groups who are fighting against Pakistan yet in order to choke their reinforcements by preventing the ordinary civilians from falling into the hands of terrorists, we do require a counter narrative. For this purpose, certain measures have already been included in our National Action Plan. On the other hand there are certain proscribed organisations who are blamed for sending volunteers to fight against the Indian forces in Kashmir. We know that after 2004, when Pakistan had signed a US brokered agreement with India to keep the LOC calm, these organisations have not indulged in any jihadi activity. In fact most of the militant elements within these groups either formed Punjabi Taliban or joined hands with TTP to fight against Pakistan. The saner elements within these groups, under their erstwhile leadership, changed the name and started participating in relief and welfare activities within Pakistan. To the best of our knowledge these people are not involved in any violent activity but after having been included in the list of UN designated terrorist groups the international perception about these groups is creating problems for Pakistan. Our critics should realise that we neither have any cases against them in Pakistan nor India or US have provided any evidence to prove their allegations against these groups in any court of Law. These people cannot be hanged or thrown into prisons just to please India or US. They are Pakistani citizens and it is our responsibility to divert their energies towards productive and more transparent activities. Hence certain proposals for the de-radicalisation and mainstreaming of these groups were floated which I think are still under consideration with NACTA. Reference: In conversation with Lt Gen Amjad Shoaib: ‘Shouldn’t put all eggs in China basket’ (Pakistan Today SEPTEMBER 24, 2017 BY MIAN ABRAR)

 Swinging Pendulum of Amjad Shoaib on Saudi Arabia (Hum Sub - 12th Apr 2015)

A senior American diplomat who served many years in Saudi Arabia recalled his foreboding upon attending a training exercise at the kingdom's most prestigious military academy, in Riyadh: "It was hot, and I watched the cadets doing drills. The officers were lounging inside a suradiq"_—_a large pavilion—"with cold drinks, calling out orders on loudspeakers. I thought to myself, How many of these young men would follow and die for these officers?" The diplomat said he came away from his most recent tour in Saudi Arabia convinced that "it wouldn't take too much for a group of twenty or thirty fundamentalist enlisted men to take charge. How would the kingdom deal with the shock of something ruthless, small, highly motivated, and of great velocity?" There is little that the United States can do now, the diplomat said. "The Saudis have been indulged for so many decades.They are so spoiled. They've always had it their way. There's hardly anything we could say that would impede the 'majestic instancy' of their progress. We're their janissaries." He was referring to the captives who became élite troops of the Ottoman Empire. "The policy dilemma is this," a senior general told me. "How do we help the Saudis make a transition without throwing them over the side?" Referring to young fundamentalists who have been demonstrating in the Saudi streets, he said, "The kids are bigger than the Daddy." ♦ Reference: King’s Ransom How vulnerable are the Saudi royals? By Seymour M. Hersh Annals of National Security October 22, 2001 Issue The New Yorker, October 22, 2001 P. 35 https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2001/10/22/kings-ransom

Curious Case of Lt General Retd Amjad Shoaib's Memory Loss (DNA 25th Oct 2016 Channel 24)

Commenting over Quetta incident, one needs to keep in mind the geographical location of the city in general and Baluchistan in particular. There are external and internal factors for the incidents of terrorism in and around Quetta which is close to the porous Pak-Afghan border. Since Afghanistan is a hotbed of terrorism and enemy agents are active there for sabotage, it makes Quetta vulnerable for terrorism. The Afghan regime is also not willing to shoulder its responsibility in making the border secure. This adds to the responsibility of the government of Pakistan to be cautious and take as much measures as necessary to secure its bordering areas. However, lack of cooperation from the civilian government is adding to our woes. For instance, the military has requisitioned raising of 100 battalions of Frontier Corps for security of the bordering areas. However, the federal government has been dragging its feet for provision of funds for the same and to date only 20 battalions have been raised which are inadequate for the gigantic task of securing our borders. With this implementation speed, we would need another five years to get these battalions raised. Moreover, other border management measures including construction of gates at border postings, erecting of fence along the border and installation of electronic gadgets would take more time. On the diplomatic front, we are losing the narrative too. The civilian leadership has been reluctant to raise Pakistan’s case at international fora. While Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been publicly threatening Pakistan of dire consequences, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has been reluctant to fight Pakistan’s case. Modi has delivered so many loose balls to Pakistan but we have failed to benefit. Modi has openly admitted Indian role in raising Mukti Bahini for separation of East Pakistan but we did not raise this issue at any international forum. On 15 AugustModi threatened Pakistan of Indian interference in Baluchistan and Gilgit Baltistan but our prime minister has been shying away from pinning him down. Pakistan has strong evidence in many issues from Kulbhushan Yadev to Raw’s role in subversive activities in Pakistan but the same was never raised by our prime minister at any forum. The second factor is the local sleeper cells and facilitators who help the foreigners carry terrorist attacks in Pakistan. The foreigner terrorists mostly come from Afghanistan and have no knowledge of Pakistani areas. Definitely, local facilitators provide them with shelter, weapons and information about the target. As you know, terrorists of Lashkar-e-Jhangvi Al Almi carried out the attack at Police training center in Quetta. Now this banned outfit has origins in South Punjab and interior Sindh. In South Punjab, areas like Jhang, Muzaffar Garh, DG Khan and Bahawalpur are hotbeds of LeJ terrorists while the same banned outfit has also facilitators and supporters in interior Sindh where many terrorist attacks have been conducted. However, Punjab’s chief minister has been refusing to allow Rangers to carry out operations in South Punjab while Sindh chief minister is reluctant to permit Rangers operation in interior Sindh. On the other hand, the international community blames Pakistan for terrorism but they never care how we are targeted by terrorist organisations. Our foreign ministry and civilian leadership have failed in presenting out case to the world. Despite the fact that India has been hurling open threats to Pakistan, we have not been able to hold India accountable. India is openly claiming to provide citizenship to Barhamdagh Bugti, the man responsible for so many terrorist attacks in Baluchistan. But our leadership is silent. Reference: “Our leaders have failed us” – An interview with Lt. Gen (R) Amjad Shoaib (Pakistan Today OCTOBER 30, 2016 BY MIAN ABRAR)


WikiLeaks: Saudi Arabia and UAE funding Terrorism in Pakistan

While the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) takes seriously the threat of terrorism within Saudi Arabia, it has been an ongoing challenge to persuade Saudi officials to treat terrorist financing emanating from Saudi Arabia as a strategic priority. Due in part to intense focus by the USG over the last several years, Saudi Arabia has begun to make important progress on this front and has responded to terrorist financing concerns raised by the United States through proactively investigating and detaining financial facilitators of concern. Still, donors in Saudi Arabia constitute the most significant source of funding to Sunni terrorist groups worldwide. Continued senior-level USG engagement is needed to build on initial efforts and encourage the Saudi government to take more steps to stem the flow of funds from Saudi Arabia-based sources to terrorists and extremists worldwide. The USG engages regularly with the Saudi Government on terrorist financing. The establishment in 2008 of a Treasury attache office presence in Riyadh contributes to robust interaction and information sharing on the issue. Despite this presence, however, more needs to be done since Saudi Arabia remains a critical financial support base for al-Qa'ida, the Taliban, LeT, and other terrorist groups, including Hamas, which probably raise millions of dollars annually from Saudi sources, often during Hajj and Ramadan. In contrast to its increasingly aggressive efforts to disrupt al-Qa'ida's access to funding from Saudi sources, Riyadh has taken only limited action to disrupt fundraising for the UN 1267-listed Taliban and LeT-groups that are also aligned with al-Qa'ida and focused on undermining stability in Afghanistan and Pakistan. UAE-based donors have provided financial support to a variety of terrorist groups, including al-Qa'ida, the Taliban, LeT and other terrorist groups, including Hamas. Washington agencies note, however, that they have limited information on the identity of Taliban and LeT donors and facilitators in the UAE. Hence there is limited information to be shared with local interlocutors. Nonetheless, the point can be emphasized that the UAE's role as a growing global financial center, coupled with weak regulatory oversight, makes it vulnerable to abuse by terrorist financiers and facilitation networks. Reference: Terrorist Finance: Action Request For Senior Level Engagement On Terrorism Finance Date:2009 December 30, 13:28 Canonical ID:09STATE131801_a https://wikileaks.org/plusd/cables/09STATE131801_a.html

Saudi Arabia and India (Kamran Bukhari Stratfor)

Saudi-Indian ties have reached a new high with the arrival of an Indian Air Force (IAF) flying contingent at the King Fahd Air Base in Taif. The mission, comprising more than 100 high-ranking IAF officers and airmen onboard Sukhoi MKI fighter aircraft, C-17 Globe Masters, C-130 Super Hercules and IL-78 aircraft, landed in Taif on Sunday on the way back from the UK where they had taken part in a multinational exercise. “This is for first time that fighter aircraft from India have landed in Saudi Arabia,” said senior Indian diplomat Hemant Kotalwar at a press conference in Jeddah. “We want to express our thanks to Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman and Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the support and cooperation that was extended to us during the visit,” said Kotalwar. According to Kotalwar, there have been frequent goodwill visits by the Indian Navy ships to the ports of Jeddah and Jubail. “We have also had transport aircraft transiting Saudi Arabia in the past,” he said. The significance of this particular event is that fighter aircraft from India have landed in Saudi Arabia for the first time. “This indicates the depth of our ties which have been on the upswing for quite some time and which have gained new momentum following King Salman’s visit to India in February 2014 when he was crown prince,” said Kotalwar. “It was during that visit that a bilateral cooperation agreement was signed lending a new thrust to the relationship.” The visit underscored the close defense ties between Saudi Arabia and India. Both countries regularly exchange high level delegations aimed at furthering cooperation between the two armed forces. Officers from both countries have been attending courses in their pursuit of shared learning. In recent months, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi publicly acknowledged and thanked King Salman for helping with the evacuation of Indian nationals from Yemen. “This is a robust testimony to the strength of our bilateral relations,” said Kotalwar. Wing Commander S. Joardar, who also addressed the press conference in Jeddah, said: “In our view, this is called the staging visit. We could have chosen to do this in any country in the region but we chose Saudi Arabia. That indicates the significance we attach to the country.” The contingent was led by Group Capt. A. Srivastava. “We had a wonderful time in Saudi Arabia and we were made to feel at home,” he said. Reference: SAUDI ARABIA Saudi-Indian defense ties soar SIRAJ WAHAB | Published — Tuesday 4 August 2015 http://www.arabnews.com/saudi-arabia/news/786251

Narendra Modi, India, Saudi Arabia and Israel - 1

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Saudi King Salman on Sunday during his first official visit to the kingdom, home to a large number of Indian workers and a major trade partner that supplies around 19 per cent of India’s crude oil imports. Modi’s visit underscored the major business ties between the two countries, despite Saudi Arabia’s historically close relationship with Pakistan. Saudi Arabia is traditionally India’s largest supplier of crude oil, and India is one of the world’s largest consumers of crude. Trade between the two countries reached $39 billion in 2014, according to a joint statement released after Modi’s meeting with King Salman. Two sides pledge to cooperate in intelligence sharing on terror financing and money laundering and to promote investments. Reference: Saudi Arabia, India sign five agreements (Dawn April 04, 2016) India and Iran on Saturday signed agreements, including Tehran leasing to New Delhi operational control of part of the Iranian east coast port of Chabahar for 18 months. The $85 million project, just 90km from Gwadar port, creates a transit route between India, Iran and Afghanistan, bypassing Pakistan. India is trying to develop Chabahar as a way to gain access to the markets of Central Asia countries as well as Afghanistan. New Delhi, Tehran sign agreements; Modi, Rouhani discuss peace in Afghanistan. Reference: India to get operational control of Iran’s Chabahar port (Dawn / Agencies Updated February 18, 2018) When Narendra Modi visited Abu Dhabi and Dubai last summer, the Pakistani daily Dawn wondered if the Indian prime minister had “stepped into the recent breach between Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates over Islamabad’s refusal to actively join the Yemen war?” The need for the question-mark was removed this week, with the announcement that Abu Dhabi’s crown prince, Mohamed bin Zayed al Nahyan, will be the guest of honour at India’s next Republic Day celebrations. There are plenty of reasons for Modi to make Sheikh Mohamed his chief guest, not least the $60 billion in Indo-UAE trade, and the 2.3 million Indians who live and work in the Emirates. But the timing of the announcement made it especially piquant for Pakistan, for it came in the middle of New Delhi’s campaign to isolate Islamabad diplomatically in the aftermath of the Uri attacks. Reference: Come Republic Day and Pakistan will be squirming uncomfortably (Oct 05, 2016 by Bobby Ghosh Hindustan Times)


Narendra Modi, India, Saudi Arabia and Israel - 2

US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi embraced each other as friends and partners Monday, vowing to work more closely on combating terrorism, the war on Afghanistan and defence cooperation. The two leaders called on Pakistan to ensure that its territory is not used to launch terrorist attacks on other countries, a statement from the White House said. Trump and Modi also “called on all nations to resolve territorial and maritime disputes peacefully and in accordance with international law,” the statement said. Addressing a small audience at the White House following a bilateral meeting with senior members of their administrations, Trump said both the US and India have been affected by the “evils of terrorism” and the “radical ideology that drives them.” Reference: Trump, Modi call on Pakistan to stem terrorist attacks (Dawn AFP | AP | Reuters June 27, 2017) India-Israel ties Bilateral trade between the countries has skyrocketed from $200 million in 1992, when India and Israel established diplomatic ties, to $4.16 billion in 2016. But that remains far below Israel's nearly $40bn in annual trade with its largest partners, the United States and the European Union. Still there are irritants in the growing relationship. The build up to Netanyahu's visit was soured this month when India called off a deal to buy 8,000 anti-tank guided missiles from Israel's state-owned defence contractor Rafael. The Indian army and the government are discussing ways to revive the $500 million order, which was scrapped when the country's own state-run defence contractor offered to build similar missiles locally. Israel is a major weapons supplier to India, exporting an average of $1bn of military equipment each year, but Modi wants to end India's status as the world's top defence importer. Reference: 'Modi is a close friend of Israel': Netanyahu kicks off historic India tour in Delhi (Dawn AFP | AP January 14, 2018)

 Seymour Hersh- US is funding Al-Qaeda to counter Iran - 1

URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OnUWcjXvdlo

A strategy of using ethnic minorities to undermine Iran is flawed, according to Vali Nasr, who teaches international politics at Tufts University and is also a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations. “Just because Lebanon, Iraq, and Pakistan have ethnic problems, it does not mean that Iran is suffering from the same issue,” Nasr told me. “Iran is an old country—like France and Germany—and its citizens are just as nationalistic. The U.S. is overestimating ethnic tension in Iran.” The minority groups that the U.S. is reaching out to are either well integrated or small and marginal, without much influence on the government or much ability to present a political challenge, Nasr said. “You can always find some activist groups that will go and kill a policeman, but working with the minorities will backfire, and alienate the majority of the population.” The Administration may have been willing to rely on dissident organizations in Iran even when there was reason to believe that the groups had operated against American interests in the past. The use of Baluchi elements, for example, is problematic, Robert Baer, a former C.I.A. clandestine officer who worked for nearly two decades in South Asia and the Middle East, told me. “The Baluchis are Sunni fundamentalists who hate the regime in Tehran, but you can also describe them as Al Qaeda,” Baer told me. “These are guys who cut off the heads of nonbelievers—in this case, it’s Shiite Iranians. The irony is that we’re once again working with Sunni fundamentalists, just as we did in Afghanistan in the nineteen-eighties.” Ramzi Yousef, who was convicted for his role in the 1993 bombing of the World Trade Center, and Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, who is considered one of the leading planners of the September 11th attacks, are Baluchi Sunni fundamentalists. One of the most active and violent anti-regime groups in Iran today is the Jundallah, also known as the Iranian People’s Resistance Movement, which describes itself as a resistance force fighting for the rights of Sunnis in Iran. “This is a vicious Salafi organization whose followers attended the same madrassas as the Taliban and Pakistani extremists,” Nasr told me. “They are suspected of having links to Al Qaeda and they are also thought to be tied to the drug culture.” The Jundallah took responsibility for the bombing of a busload of Revolutionary Guard soldiers in February, 2007. At least eleven Guard members were killed. According to Baer and to press reports, the Jundallah is among the groups in Iran that are benefitting from U.S. support. The C.I.A. and Special Operations communities also have long-standing ties to two other dissident groups in Iran: the Mujahideen-e-Khalq, known in the West as the M.E.K., and a Kurdish separatist group, the Party for a Free Life in Kurdistan, or pjak. The M.E.K. has been on the State Department’s terrorist list for more than a decade, yet in recent years the group has received arms and intelligence, directly or indirectly, from the United States. Some of the newly authorized covert funds, the Pentagon consultant told me, may well end up in M.E.K. coffers. “The new task force will work with the M.E.K. The Administration is desperate for results.” He added, “The M.E.K. has no C.P.A. auditing the books, and its leaders are thought to have been lining their pockets for years. If people only knew what the M.E.K. is getting, and how much is going to its bank accounts—and yet it is almost useless for the purposes the Administration intends.” REFERENCE: Preparing the Battlefield The Bush Administration steps up its secret moves against Iran. By Seymour M. Hersh Annals of National Security July 7, 2008 Issue (The New Yorker)

Seymour Hersh- US is funding Al-Qaeda to counter Iran - 2

URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mmk9FbGZC7U&feature=related

ISLAMABAD Arrest of Jundallah leader Abdolmalek Rigi and his deputy Hamza during a flight from Dubai to Kyrgyzstan marks a lucky break for Pakistan, which has been long accused by Iran of hosting the terror group's ringleader, and offers an opportunity to ease the tense relations between Tehran and Islamabad. Iran, despite repeated denials by Islamabad, always alleged that the group operated from Pakistan's soil and that its leader Rigi was based there and carried Pakistan's national identity card by the name of Saeed Ahmed, son of Ghulam Haider. The militant leader had been educated at Karachi's Binnori Town seminary, which was school to many of the Taliban leaders. Rigi is believed to have camouflaged his nationalist movement in a sectarian colour to curry favour with Pakistani sectarian groups. Iranian Interior Minister Mostafa Mohammad Najjar, who visited Pakistan in October following an attack on elite Revolutionary Guards in south-western Sistan-Balochistan province along Pakistan's border, is said to have handed over proofs of Rigi's travel to Pakistan. “We have documents that show (Abdolmalek) Rigi travels readily to Pakistan ... we are here to ask Pakistan to hand over Rigi to Iran,” Mr Najjar had said in a statement. Reference: Rigi`s arrest a godsend for Pakistan (Dawn February 24, 2010)

Seymour Hersh- US is funding Al-Qaeda to counter Iran - 3

URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nD6pyqtV9lc&feature=related

The recovery of a Pakistani Computerised National Identity Card from the possession of Abdolmalek Rigi, an Iranian terrorist and head of Jundallah group, has put a question mark on the Nadra's “self-proclaimed secure” registration system. The card was recovered by Iranian security personnel when Rigi was arrested while travelling on a flight heading to an Arab country via Pakistan on Feb 23. The interior ministry claimed that it was a fake card, and not issued by the National Database Registration Authority. Iranian authorities are reported to have informed Pakistan about the recovery of the CNIC carrying photograph of Abdolmalek Rigi and sought an investigation into the matter, but the government did not make it public. However, the interior ministry had to issue its point of view only when a TV channel telecast the news about Rigi's identity card. The recovery of CNIC from the terrorist leader has thrown a challenge to security of Nadra's database and its official slogan “deception no more”. Reference: CNIC on Rigi lands Nadra into trouble (Dawn March 04, 2010)

Seymour Hersh- US is funding Al-Qaeda to counter Iran - 4

URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LwkrsenuEl0&feature=related

ISLAMABAD Tehran ramped up pressure on Islamabad on Friday to crack down on Jundallah, an Iranian terrorist group alleged to be operating from Pakistan, and hand over its leader Abdolmalek Rigi, claiming that Iran had documentary evidence of his travel to and from Pakistan. Iranian Interior Minister Mostafa Mohammad Najjar, who arrived here on Friday at the head of a security delegation and with a clear demand from Tehran for cooperation against Jundallah, met his Pakistani counterpart Rehman Malik to discuss ways for jointly fighting the terror group. 'We have documents that show Rigi travels readily to Pakistan...we are here to ask Pakistan to hand over Rigi to Iran,' Mr Najjar said in a statement. Not much was revealed by either side about the outcome of the talks focussed on Jundallah -- an issue that has strained ties between the two countries after the weekend attack on the Revolutionary Guards in Sistan-Baluchestan province. Insiders said the Pakistani side had reiterated its desire to help Iran in the wake of the terror strike. However, it was made clear that the government could do little because of its limitations and its security forces having been overstretched by the operation in South Waziristan. The only help Mr Malik could offer was increased intelligence sharing and intensified border patrol. 'Pakistan is committed to eliminating terrorism and it is imperative that Pakistan and Iran work in harmony for peace in the region,' he said. Mr Najjar was reportedly very categorical at the meeting, telling Mr Malik that a row over Rigi was 'not in the interest of the two countries' good neighbourly relations'. According to sources, Iran proposed coordinated operations in the border areas to eliminate the group. But Pakistan did not appear to be amenable to the proposal. Reference: Iran asks Pakistan to hand over Jundallah chief Rigi (Dawn October 24, 2009)

Allama Tahir Ashrai, Foreign NGO and Saudi Arabia

In a wide-ranging discussion with visiting SCA Assistant Secretary Boucher, President Zardari expressed complete satisfaction with his just concluded visit to China, reviewed planning for the Friends of Pakistan, and reiterated his determination to press the fight against extremism and the militancy in the tribal areas. He linked his ability to sustain the counter-insurgency fight to progress on addressing Pakistan,s economic woes, however, and chastised the IMF for only wanting to &take away8 in its negotiations. Zardari alerted Boucher to Iran's offer of concessional oil for Pakistan, an offer he did not believe he could refuse. Boucher reminded him of the Deputy Secretary's recent caution not to allow Iran to gain a toehold in Pakistan. In an aside, Zardari mentioned that Iran has offered to provide Pakistan with concessional oil. How could he go to the National Assembly and tell them Iran had offered the assistance and Pakistan had turned it down, he asked rhetorically. Boucher reminded him of Ambassador Haqqani's recent conversation on this issue with Deputy Secretary Negroponte in which the Deputy cautioned against providing Iran with a toehold in Pakistan. Reference: 2008: Do not to allow Iran toehold in Pakistan: US (Dawn May 23, 2011) https://www.dawn.com/news/631189/2008-do-not-to-allow-iran-toehold-in-pakistan-us -----> WikiLeaks on Saudi Pakistan Ties (Read Saudi Arabia's Influence in Pakistan's Internal Matters) "We in Saudi Arabia are not observers in Pakistan, we are participants." He asserted that the Saudi government (SAG) had offered Sharif a pledge of protection and asylum in the Kingdom after his ouster by Musharraf in return for a promise that he would refrain from political activity for ten years. He added that Sharif had begun to attempt to test the limits of this promise five or six years in his exile. "Sharif broke his promise by conducting political activity while in the Kingdom," al-Jubeir charged. He added that when the SAG had permitted Sharif to travel to London, he first promised the Saudis not to engage in political activity or return to Pakistan, but he then flew to Pakistan from London in a direct violation of his commitment. Al-Jubeir expressed considerable "disappointment" in Sharif's broken pledges to the SAG. He stated very clearly that the SAG has worked directly with Musharraf to have Sharif arrested on his return to Pakistan and immediately deported to the Kingdom. "We told Musharraf that we would receive him back and then keep him here as an 'honored guest'," al-Jubeir said. He added that Prince Muqrin had been the SAG's point man in restraining Sharif. Prince Muqrin was allowed to reveal the terms of Sharif's asylum agreement, he noted. Al-Jubeir made it very clear that the SAG would seek to control Sharif's movements in he future, even suggesting that he would be kept in a state only a little less severe than house arrest. Al-Jubeir added that he sees neither Sharif nor former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto as a viable replacement for Musharraf. "With all his flaws," he said of Musharraf, "he is the only person that you or we have to work with now." He claimed that Sharif would be unable to control the Pushtun-dominated Islamic insurgency in the tribal region near Afghanistan, while Bhutto would prove to be too divisive a figure to rule the country, which he characterized as "very tribal, much like our own country." Al-Jubeir added that for the SAG, stability in Pakistan is an essential strategic matter. Since Pakistan possesses both nuclear weapons and delivery vehicles, from the Saudi point of view, the policy choice to be made there boils down to a drastic choice: "We can either support Musharraf and stability, or we can allow bin Laden to get the bomb, "he told the Charge'. Reference: US embassy cables: Saudi influence in Pakistan Wed 1 Dec 2010 https://www.theguardian.com/world/us-embassy-cables-documents/130876 WikiLeaks cables: Saudi Arabia wants military rule in Pakistan by Declan Walsh in Islamabad Wed 1 Dec 2010 https://www.theguardian.com/world/2010/dec/01/saudis-distrust-pakistan-embassy-cables

Geo economics of Saudi Arabia’s NEOM project

URL: https://youtu.be/FE63syd6OSI

The ambitious Saudi NEOM project on the Red Sea near the Gulf of Aqaba worth nearly $500 billion will involve linking Saudi with Egypt. In exchange for billions of dollars of aid, Egypt recognised Saudi sovereignty on the disputed Tiran island in Gulf of Aqaba that will allow road-rail connections between not only the two countries but also with Jordan. That being said, since Israel's southern port of Eilat on Gulf of Aqaba is guaranteed open access to Red Sea since 1974 Camp David Peace Accord with Egypt, Saudi NEOM project will involve Israel in major capacity in order to avoid tensions. This project can then normalise Saudi recognition of Israel if it works. References: CaspianReport is creating reports https://www.patreon.com/CaspianReport Introducing NEOM, The 500 Million-Dollar, ultra-high tech future mega-city of Saudi Arabia https://newatlas.com/neom-saudi-arabia-future-megacity/51893/#p488188 

Right-hand Side and Left-hand Side of Dr Tahirul Qadri.

LAHORE: Chief of Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) Dr Tahirul Qadri claimed on Thursday that whenever he wants, he can make Pakistan People Party (PPP) Co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari and Pakistan Tehreek-e- Insaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan sit together at a single table. Qadri made the claim while addressing the all Pakistan lawyers convention at his party office. During the meeting a five-point resolution was also unanimously approved by the lawyer community and the PAT chief. While sharing about his meeting with PML-Q leader Chaudhry Shujaat, Chaudhry Pervaiz Illahi, AML chief Sheikh Rashid Ahmed, Jamaat Islami and Majlis Wahdat ul Muslimeen leaders, he said that the leaders of these political parties assured him that they would take part in PAT’s call for justice whenever the movement starts. Qadri also thanked the lawyers, who attended convention in large numbers and announced their support to his party’s cause. “Now we are more committed to take justice for this noble cause,” he added. Reference: I can unite Zardari, Imran whenever I want: Qadri December 15, 2017 https://tribune.com.pk/story/1584335/1-can-unite-zardari-imran-whenever-want-qadri/

It would be an Irony or the twist of fate to watch Asif Ali Zardari , PPP sitting with the tormentor of Late. Ms. Benazir Bhutto, let me remind you all that whenever Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad used to address the National Assembly, she used to leave the house because of extremely foul and abusive language of Sheikh Rasheed Ahmed 

Dr Tahirul Qadri with Benazir Bhutto

Extremely Foul and Abusive Language of Sheikh Rasheed Ahmed for Benazir Bhutto

Sheikh Rasheed Ahmed's Death Threat to Asif Ali Zardari

After resigning from National Assembly during General Pervez Musharraf era (obviously after supporting his sham referendum), Dr Tahirul Qadri sold his political agenda and ideology abroad which was to present a Moderate and Enlightened Islam and he received kudos for issuing a detailed religious edits against Religions Extremism & Terrorism related with Muslims and Islam (Reference: Historical Launching of Fatwa Against Terrorism http://www.minhaj.org/english/tid/9959/Historical-Launching-of-Fatwa-Against-Terrerism-leading-Islamic-authority-launches-fatwa-against-terrorism-and-denounces-suicide-bombers-as-disbelievers-Anti-terror-Fatwa-launched.html Fatwa On Terrorism and Suicide Bombings by Shaykh-ul-Islam. Dr Muhammad Tahir-ul-Qadri. Foreword by. Prof John L. Esposito & Introduction by Dr Joel S. Hayward http://www.quranandwar.com/FATWA%20on%20Terrorism%20and%20Suicide%20Bombings.pdf In the light of above stand of Dr Tahirul Qadri , watch his own videos where he himself was raising question against Banned Terror Jihadi and Sectarian Outfits and he even questioned the Pakistan Army for not banning these terror outfits in letter and spirit but now in 2017 the same Dr Tahirul Qadri is indirectly accommodating Jihadi and Sectarian Terror Outfit via Imran Khan, even if that was not enough this Canadian Charlatan in one of his PTV Interview suggested rather incited Young Army Officers of Pakistan Army to rebel and takeover and wrap up 1973 Constitution of Pakistan and enforced reforms, he and his party PAT should be dragged in Military Court and tried for Treason and Creating mischief (anarchy) in an already highly polarized Nuclear Pakistan - I hope sanity will prevail.

Dr Tahirul Qadri on Banned Terror Jihadi Sectarian Outfits (Part 1)

The rulers, however, have the audacity to call their despotic tenure as a golden period, which is really shameful. The people of Pakistan now understand the true meaning of their slogan, “Democracy is the Best Revenge”. While the 99 percent frenzied population of Pakistan watches helplessly the daily dreadful events that strike mortal blows on regular basis, the 1% ruling elite has remained unmoved to the miserable plight of the teeming millions who voted them into power. The people have, therefore developed hatred against this corrupt and cruel system that has brought no relief in their lives, has compounded difficulties and cheated them in the name of democracy. They have realized that the present system of elections is flawed that throws up dynastic, exploitative, manipulative, dishonest, incompetent and corrupt leadership, which has repeatedly failed to deliver and hence it must be corrected. It is under such dire straits that the appearance of Dr. Qadri on the Pakistani political scene should be viewed. I have been consistently highlighting since July, 2011, the need for selection of selfless men with proven character, loyalty, sincerity and integrity as specialists to form an interim government, which should stem the rot and focus on correcting the basic flaws in our electoral system so that it can produce true results. In this passionate effort, a few others have been joining me from time to time, using large column space in the print media to present similar ideas but, being in absolute minority, our voices were cleverly suppressed by the preponderant supporters of status quo forces. Reference: Dr Qadri rises for teeming millions January 5, 2013 Air Vice Marshall (R) Shahid Latif  https://www.thenews.com.pk/archive/print/405656-dr-qadri-rises-for-teeming-millions

In retrospect, had this action been taken at the start of our struggle, the country and its hapless people may have been spared the incalculable damage inflicted upon them by the ruthless leadership. The justification for Dr. Qadri’s historic initiative is provided by a simple and straightforward logic that present system of elections in Pakistan is unconstitutional and it must be brought in conformity with the constitution. Hence, those who have been bluffing the nation on this account, stand badly exposed after the Tehrik-e Minhaj-ul-Quran (TMQ) leader, in his marathon address to the mammoth Dec 23 rally at Lahore, made a short work of the relevant constitutional clauses in ‘easy to understand’ language, to support his magnificent agenda for change. Reference: Dr Qadri rises for teeming millions January 5, 2013 Air Vice Marshall (R) Shahid Latif  https://www.thenews.com.pk/archive/print/405656-dr-qadri-rises-for-teeming-millions

 Dr Tahirul Qadri on Banned Terror Jihadi Sectarian Outfits (Part 2)

Imran Khan's Clear Views on Taliban 

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan on Monday defended Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government's budget allocation of Rs300 million for religious seminary Darul Uloom Haqqania. In an interview with Geo News, Imran Khan said the funds and support will help the seminary students assimilate in our society, bring them in to the mainstream and keep them away from radicalisation. Reference: Imran defends KP govt's Rs300m grant for Darul Uloom Haqqania June 22, 2016 https://www.dawn.com/news/1266524

Tahirul Qadri's Fatwa against Taliban 

How come PTI and PPP sitting with Dr Tahirul Qadri because Imran Khan directly or indirectly support Banned Terror Outfits and and a political ally of Maulana Samiul Haq of JUI-S (The Spiritual Founder of Taliban) and Imran Khan's right hand man Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad openly and blatantly support not only the Banned Terror and Sectarian outfit but also support and say on record that the votes of supporters of Mumtaz Qadri (the assassin who ruthlessly murdered former Governor Punjab Salmaan Taseer) would be for Imran Khan.

Sheikh Rasheed Ahmed and Banned Jihadi Terror Outfits (Part 1)

Sheikh Rasheed Ahmed and Banned Jihadi Terror Outfits (Part 2)

Sheikh Rasheed Ahmed on Vote Bank of Imran Khan amongst those who supported the assassin Mumtaz Qadri who ruthlessly murdered Salmaan Taseer

Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan on Thursday announced he would join Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) chief Tahirul Qadri for the protest he has announced for January 18. Qadri has called for supporters to 'topple the government' after a deadline given for the resignation of Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif and Law Minister Rana Sanaullah over their alleged complicity in the 2014 Model Town tragedy expired earlier this week. Reference: PTI to join PAT protest on Jan 18: Imran Khan January 11, 2018 https://www.dawn.com/news/1382255  PPP-Parliamentarians President Asif Ali Zardari on Thursday joined Dr Tahirul Qadri in his demand for resignation of the Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif for his alleged role in the Model Town tragedy. "Enough is enough... Shahbaz has to resign and appear before the court," Zardari said. "After the [Justice Najafi] report, he stands condemned and a condemned person is not capable of being the chief minister of the largest province of Pakistan." Zardari made the demand during a joint press conference following a detailed meeting with Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) chief Dr Qadri in Lahore. Reference: Zardari puts weight behind PAT's demand of CM Shahbaz's resignation December 07, 2017 https://www.dawn.com/news/1375165

According to Imran Khan, “Asif Ali Zardari is the biggest disease of Sindh,” he said. “He used to sell tickets in black at Bambino cinema.”

Shah Mehmood Qureshi said that the country’s nuclear arsenal was not safe under President Asif Zardari

Shah Mehmood Qureshi is basically a Sufi and he is trying to make everyone happy , the Americans, Sufis, Imran Khan, Jihadis and all at the same time

Everybody is busy cooking facts; blatantly lying; spinning stories; whitewashing crucible proof; cowering behind shadowy phantoms of fear. The tattily-tangled TV channels are the worst. A bunch of armchair, soft-headed, out-of-the-loop anchors and commentators pronounce nightly judgments on Raymond Davis, allegedly an American hired-gun contracted by the CIA as their spymaster with an ambiguous diplomatic status. Watching these know-nothings is a waste of time. Whipping mass hysteria, these simple souls think they can crush America by wagging a finger and waving a fist at the world’s most powerful country. “We’ll eat grass, but not let America dictate to us” is the common refrain filling the frenzied, charged air. If truth be told, no one knows except two entities: our establishment (a handful few), and Hillary Clinton. The rest of us are gropers in the dark. The fog in our Foreign Office and the US State Department is so thick that neither has the foggiest idea on how to handle ‘Lahoregate’. At his maiden ‘coming out’ press conference in Islamabad recently, Shah Mehmud Qureshi looked more like a bull fighter than a dumped foreign minister. The matador de toros (killer of bulls) wanted to slay the bull (America) by declaring that Raymond Davis does not enjoy “blanket” diplomatic immunity. Like the matador whose bullfighting is not considered a sport but an artistic performance, the flinty-eyed Qureshi showed the red rag to the bull, carefully modulating his tone and tenor to make sure that his message did not escape any ears, particularly the PPP’s supreme headquarters. “He is propped by a very powerful presence that wants America on its bended knees,” think some who say Qureshi has turned into a steam engine railroading his way to Washington “via Pakistan’s epicentre of power.” His snub to Kerry who was here recently is like a declaration of war with America. Lest we forget, Zain H. Qureshi, who two years ago hit the headlines when his business card stated him as working for Senator John Kerry as a “Legislative Fellow” when his father was in talks with Washington on the famous Kerry Lugar Bill (KLB). I was in the US and called the senator’s office to confirm the news item appearing in the Pakistani press. The voice at the other end immediately said, “He does not work for us”. The woman appeared primed for such a question. After several aborted attempts, I finally found out from one of Kerry’s male staffers that Zain did indeed work for Kerry but had now left. Getting his son a job with Kerry when the KLB talks were at a critical stage was politically incorrect. Would one not call this a conflict of interest? Senator Kerry is a ‘Boston Brahmin’. He’s from New England aristocracy, like the Makhdooms of Multan, i.e. Shah Mahmood Qureshi and his tribe. Kerry’s claim to fame is blue-blooded ancestry, wealth, influence and the right to rule. Kerry said the following during his 2004 presidential campaign: “There’s a great passage in the Bible that says, ‘What does it mean, my brother, to say you have faith if there are no deeds? Faith without works is dead.’ And I think everything you do in public life has to be guided by your faith, affected by your faith. That’s why I fight for equality and justice. All of those things come out of that fundamental teaching and belief of faith.” Reference: No spin zone: Cooking facts by Anjum Niaz February 27, 2011 https://www.dawn.com/news/609293

Central Leader of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf , Ms Shireen Mazari often raise question on the loyalty and patriotism of anybody who minutely differ with her or her party's tunnel and myopic vision but conveniently forget what she herself wrote against Dr Tahirul Qadri & she also conveniently forgot what Imran Khan unloaded in India on Banned Terror Jihadi Sectarian Outfits

Dr Tahirul Qadri undoubtedly moved me on December 23, especially with the sea of green and white flags and the passionate resonance of the national anthem. We may be far from where we want to be, or should be, as a nation, but the passion and dream lives on in so many of us. Dr Qadri’s message touched a chord and the instinct was to join up in his caravan for change. After all, this was what had attracted me to the PTI until the “electables” invasion, traditional manoeuvring and takeover. Imran’s commitment to change was not the issue, but the means – of the same “electables” somehow becoming harbingers of this change – did somehow undermine the belief, notwithstanding the passion of the youth! So when Dr Qadri in his convincing manner offered yet another path to truly change the democratic political equation in Pakistan, it was difficult not to join in. But something held me back, and I can now identify three different levels of reasoning that made me decide to stay away. The first level was related to the assumptions underlying the march, regardless of the numbers! The idea of having a “people’s assembly” which would make decisions for the nation without itself having been selected by the people smacked of an arrogance that was discomfiting! After all, how could this “people’s assembly” represent the whole gamut of the Pakistani nation without having actually been given this mandate? Similarly, respected scholar though he is, Dr Qadri also has not been given a mandate to head such an assembly and make decisions on behalf of the people of Pakistan! At a second and perhaps most crucial level, I feel that, given the chaos and violence Pakistan is already experiencing, the means of bringing change matter. There is absolutely no doubt that the demands for electoral reforms through proper enforcement of the constitution are the need of the hour for Pakistan to rid itself of the corrupt politicians’ coterie ruling us. But the questions that came to mind are: One, why not use the Supreme Court and challenges through the ECP to ensure enforcement of constitutional provisions with regard to electoral candidates? Here Imran Khan’s example stands out in connection with bogus voters’ lists, as well as his pending appeals against pre-poll rigging. There is a system that works, if used properly. This usage also allows for strengthening of institutions like the judiciary and the ECP – thereby fortifying the roots of democracy. I feel Imran’s use of petitions to fight electoral corruption not only shows faith in the judiciary, thereby fortifying the institution, but has also borne positive results in the battle for electoral reform – although the war has yet to be won. Reference: When means do matter by Shireen Mazari January 14, 2013 https://www.thenews.com.pk/archive/print/407376-when-means-do-matter

Imran Khan on Banned Jihadi Sectarian Outfits in India with Karan Thapar

Imran Khan says and do something entirely different when he is in Pakistan 

Imran Khan on Banned Jihadi Sectarian Outfits in India

Two, how can one man and his followers decide who is clean or pious? At the end of the day, if we believe in democracy then we must fight the battle against corruption and lawbreakers at the ballot box. Yes, rigging is a plague, as are the traditional political norms, especially in the rural areas; but if enough voices stand up against these evils, I believe things will change. We have never given the democratic system, flawed as it may be, a chance to take root. Too many dictatorial interventions in the name of “reform” have already cost this country a smooth evolutionary developmental process. In fact, this is a major reason why the corrupt, inept traditional “electables” succeed time after time in elections – because they are allowed to embrace political martyrdom instead of being exposed for the criminals that they are. Distasteful as it may be, we have to allow the system to continue and hope people will choose new faces, who will in turn bring reform to the electoral system through parliamentary legislation. We need a system of proportional representation; of unhinging the roots of support for corruption in politics such the misnomer “development funds,” and so on. But these changes need to come through letting the electoral system continue, which may make the task more daunting but it is the only legitimate way. Too many non-democratic interventions have already destroyed the fabric of this nation. Three, I feel very strongly about the whole issue of dual nationality and had written a letter to the CJ on the issue also. No matter how committed to Pakistan, dual nationality implies dual loyalties, especially in the case of the US naturalisation oath. If one wants to lead a political movement in Pakistan then commitment to this cause requires a renunciation of the foreign nationality. Not everyone agrees on this, but it is a conviction with me. At a third level, my misgivings are based on what I tend to call “connecting the dots.” The timing of Dr Qadri’s return; information flowing out from British sources that the UK High Commissioner to Pakistan visited Dr Qadri in Canada two or three times about six months ago; the growing belligerency of drones and Indian troops along the LoC, alongside an unprecedented increase in terrorism, especially in Quetta; the sheer money and organisational structure that suddenly became overt – just too many coincidences in terms of timeline. Some said the “establishment” was behind Dr Qadri, but I am not convinced on that count! However, external powers I suspect have a role, although I have no proof – simply an educated assessment of what is happening within Pakistan and in our region. We know the US seeks a favourable dispensation in Islamabad up to 2014 so that its withdrawal from Afghanistan can be smooth and the post-withdrawal scenario to its liking. A long-term friendly caretaker setup would suit them more than an elected government, especially since they are not sure what will happen in the next elections when there is no NRO and no “guarantors”! We also know how the UK played a lead role in the whole NRO game, so the same linkage can be taken as a given again. Banking on someone they recognise as a “liberal religious leader,” who has even sought to justify drones before December 23, they feel will allow them to bring the Pakistani nation on board. These are dangerous and false assumptions but it will not be the first time such miscalculations have been made. Too many questions to set the mind at ease over the agenda of Dr Qadri – a man to be respected for his scholarship. But if he is really concerned about the people of Pakistan then a march that would win support from all over the country would be a peace march to Quetta. Now, that would be a march I would join without hesitation. Till then elections and legal challenges to enforce constitutional provisions are the route to achieve change. The means do matter. Reference: When means do matter by Shireen Mazari January 14,  2013 https://www.thenews.com.pk/archive/print/407376-when-means-do-matter

Swinging Pendulum of Dr Tahirul Qadri

Dr Tahirul Qadri is an strange mix of modernism and conservatism and he off and on blatantly lie in the Western World to mint money from the expatriates living abroad by projecting that Islam is a moderate religion and extremism has no place in Islam whereas his own speeches rather Hate Speeches and Sermons are available on youtube against the marginalized minority sects in Pakistan , I wont quote or upload those videos here and above all Dr Tahirul Qadri also preach that even the Basic Sex Education will encourage Lewdness & Abnormal Sexual Behaviour whereas he conveniently forget to mention that  Child Abuse, Pedophilia, and Rape of children are rampant in Pakistan & most of the victims belong to downtrodden and traditionally conservative and religious families . Reference   : Islamic schools in Pakistan plagued by child sex abuse, investigation finds Unreported assaults and harassment by clerics all-too-common, study concludes Kathy Gannon Wednesday 22 November 2017 http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/asia/child-sexual-abuse-rape-islamic-schools-clerics-madrassas-pakistan-a8069096.html

Altaf Hussain, MQM, Research and Analysis Wing, Imran Khan and Dr Tahirul Qadri.

LONDON: Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) chief Altaf Hussain has called for the setting up of a technocratic government in the country for a period of two years, DawnNews reported. The demand came as the MQM chief expressed his concern over the present political crisis during a meeting with Punjab Governor Chaudhry Mohammad Sarwar in London. The statement comes amid rumours that differences have developed between Sharif brothers and Sarwar over governance issues and that the latter is planning to resign. Sarwar has denied the rumours saying there was no truth in reports that he was going to resign upon his return from London. REFERENCE: Technocrats should govern country for two years: Altaf Hussain September 23, 2014 https://www.dawn.com/news/1133794 KARACHI, Feb 28: Muttahida Qaumi Movement chief Altaf Hussain has asked the “patriotic” army generals to come forward and rid Pakistan of corruption and theft, as an increasing unemployment, poverty and price hike have forced the people to look at them. Reference: Altaf again urges `patriotic` generals to help masses February 28, 2011 https://www.dawn.com/news/609659 KARACHI: Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) chief Altaf Hussain launched a blistering attack on politicians and feudal landlords on Sunday, accusing them of corruption and harbouring treasonous designs against the country. Almost in the same breath, the MQM leader vowed to support “any patriotic general” who was prepared “to take action” against those venal politicians and feudal lords, even in the guise of martial law. Altaf Hussain earlier accused corrupt politicians and feudals of plotting to “break Pakistan into pieces.” He made these remarks during a speech at a general workers’ meeting at Lal Qila Ground in Azizabad. According to him, feudal landlords do not want to see people of lower-middle and the middle classes in politics. Reference: MQM to back martial law-like steps: Altaf By Hafeez Tunio Published: August 23, 2010 https://tribune.com.pk/story/42032/mqm-to-back-martial-law-like-steps-altaf/ ISLAMABAD: Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), a major opposition party in the National Assembly having an electoral mandate from Karachi, on Tuesday called upon the government to invoke Article 245 of the Constitution for handling the prevailing law and order situation in the city. “The situation in Karachi is worsening. Killings, robberies, kidnappings for ransom and other crimes have paralysed the city. Criminals are being patronised and the situation has gone beyond control,” claimed Dr Farooq Sattar, MQM’s parliamentary leader in lower house of the parliament. The statement came in the wake of MQM chief Altaf Hussain’s demand of handing over Karachi to Pakistani armed forces earlier in the day. REFERENCE: MQM urges govt to invoke Article 245 in Karachi August 27, 2013 https://www.dawn.com/news/1038726 KARACHI: Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) chief Altaf Hussain demanded Tuesday that the administration of Karachi should be handed over to army personnel, DawnNews reported. In a statement issued from London, Hussain said the situation of Karachi was worsening day by day and prime minister Nawaz Sharif should hand over responsibilities of the city to army personnel. Hussain said the Sindh government, which was led by the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), had failed to provide protection to residents of Karach’s Lyari neighbourhood despite the fact that the area was steeped in violence and gang-wars and several people had died due to terrorist attacks. Earlier this month, Pakistan's president-elect Mamnoon Hussain indicated in a TV program that the army’s assistance could be sought for restoration of peace in Karachi. MQM chief demands handing over Karachi to army August 27, 2013 https://www.dawn.com/news/1038700/mqm-chief-demands-handing-over-karachi-to-army PESHAWAR, Sept 7: Muttahida Qaumi Movement chief Altaf Hussain has said that whether President Gen Pervez Musharraf remains in uniform or decides to doff it is a secondary issue because every government in Pakistan has sought protection of the military uniform. Speaking at the Peshawar Press Club's 'Meet the Press' programme here on Tuesday, he said the issue of uniform would be there as long as a people's government was not established in the country. Every ruler in the past had sought the help of the 'uniform' and compromised on principles, he added. He said that former prime ministers, including Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif, had formed their governments with the help of the 'uniform'. The Jamaat-i-Islami supported Gen Ziaul Haq, who also was in uniform, for 11 long years, but now JI chief Qazi Hussain Ahmed was opposing a president in uniform to hoodwink the nation. Reference: Musharraf's uniform a secondary issue: Altaf September 08, 2004 https://www.dawn.com/news/369907 WASHINGTON, Aug 9: Muttahida Qaumi Movement’s deputy convener Dr Farooq Sattar has urged opposition parties to stop forcing the president to divest his uniform. He was speaking at a gathering in Washington on the party’s 25th anniversary. The MQM’s leader said the present system was not ideal but “even an incomplete and moth-eaten democracy was better than no democracy.” He also urged the opposition parties not to waste their energies on the demand for abolishing the Legal Framework Order because “even removing the LFO will not ensure that there will be no threat to democracy in the future.” Dr Sattar said that in 1999, former prime minister Nawaz Sharif had already removed the Eighth Amendment, becoming the most powerful prime minister in Pakistan’s history. “But in less than 10 months after he removed the Eighth amendment, the parliament was dismissed and Mr Sharif was sacked.” “LFO or no LFO, uniform or no uniform,” said Mr. Sattar, “democracy will remain weak so long as democratic institutions are not strengthened.” Mr Sattar said that the same religious leaders “saw no harm in accepting, even kissing, Gen Zia’s uniform. Then why this aversion to Musharraf’s uniform? If you believe in a principle, apply it equally to all.” Reference: MQM backs Musharraf on LFO, uniform by Anwar Iqbal August 10, 2003 https://www.dawn.com/news/134480 Talking to media in Lahore, Imran Khan said, “I haven’t listened to the tape, but I can say with surety whatever it’s about. It will not have me ordering someone’s murder or receiving extortion money.” Dr Alvi, on the other hand, told a TV channel that the recording was concocted because he had only informed Mr Khan about the attack on PTV headquarters and asked for his immediate statement condemning the act. He also tweeted that he believed the recording had been doctored, adding that recording private conversations was an illegal act. “In contrast, the released tape with our voices gives an impression that he was happy with the occupation of PTV and wanted the state broadcaster to remain shut.” According to the tape, the PTI chairman directed Dr Alvi to get in touch with MQM leader Altaf Hussain in London to deliver on his promise of support for the PTI’s demand for the PM’s resignation. Notwithstanding the veracity of the recording, the timing of its release has raised many eyebrows. The MQM is currently under pressure due to the ongoing law and order operation in Karachi. The PM has already advised the president to grant a one month extension to Saulat Mirza, a death row convict who accused MQM chief Altaf Hussain and other party leaders of patronising target killers. Reference: Imran-Alvi tape ‘talk of the town’ by Khawar Ghumman March 28, 2015 https://www.dawn.com/news/1172405 VADODARA: Pakistani Islamic scholar Tahir-ul-Qadri on his first visit to Gujarat thanked chief minister Narendra Modi for the security arrangements provided to him. Qadri, known for his strong views against terrorism and extremism, however, refused to comment on 2002 communal riots. Qadri has been in Gujarat since Friday night to lay foundation stone of India headquarters of Minhaj-ul-Quran International in Karjan on Saturday evening. Speaking to reporters ahead of the function in Karjan, he said he did not have knowledge of India's provincial states and its political leaders. "But it is my first visit to Gujarat and special Z-plus security arrangements have been made by the state. I thank the CM for this," he said. On repeated questions about the 2002 communal riots, Qadri insisted he did not come to Gujarat to speak about specific incidents, but termed them as unfortunate. "My talk in letter and spirit is just for peace and harmony. Violence at any place, killing of mankind should be condemned, but I de-link it with the events (Godhra riots) you are referring to," he said. He also drew parallels between Quran and Bhagwad Gita. Qadri struck a local chord immediately. "Tamam Gujarati mate dua karu chu. Khushal raho, hali mali ne raho. (I am praying for all Gujaratis. Live in prosperity and live in harmony)," he said. Qadri said nobody can rectify whatever has happened in the past. "Nobody can regenerate or recreate past, but efforts should be made to prevent such events in future. The only way is to look for a better future, create an atmosphere of togetherness for which mutual tolerance is necessary," he said, stressing that his efforts are for inter-faith, inter-cultural harmony at global level. Reference: Host Narendra Modi floors Pakistani scholar TNN | Feb 27, 2012, https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Host-Narendra-Modi-floors-Pakistani-scholar/articleshow/12049076.cms MQM (Muttahida Quami Movement) ------------------------------ 2. (S) The MQM is an ethnic political party of the Urdu speaking community (known as "Mohajirs," which is Arabic for immigrants) that migrated from India at the time of partition; Mohajirs make up around fifty percent of the total population in Karachi. MQM is middle-class, avowedly secular, and anti-extremist (the only party to publicly protest the recent Swat Nizam-e-Adl regulations). It has a long history of clashes with the Pakistan People,s Party (PPP), which controls the Sindh province in which Karachi is located, and with the Awami National Party (ANP), which represents MQM,s rival ethnic Pashtuns. 3. (S) MQM's armed members, known as "Good Friends," are the largest non-governmental armed element in the city. The police estimate MQM has ten thousand active armed members and as many as twenty-five thousand armed fighters in reserve. This is compared to the city's thirty-three thousand police officers. The party operates through its 100 Sector Commanders, who take their orders directly from the party leader, Altaf Hussain, who lives in exile in the United Kingdom. The Sector Commanders plan and monitor the activities of the armed elements. MQM's detractors claim these armed men are involved in extortion, assassination of political rivals, shootings at campaign rallies, and the murder of people from other ethnic communities. 4. (S) Low to middle-ranked police officials acknowledge the extortion and the likely veracity of the other charges. A senior police officer said, in the past eight years alone, MQM was issued over a million arms licenses, mostly for handguns. Post has observed MQM security personnel carrying numerous shoulder-fired weapons, ranging from new European AKMs to crude AK copies, probably produced in local shops. MQM controls the following neighborhoods in Karachi: Gulberg, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Korangi, Landhi, Liaquatabad, Malir, Nazimabad, New Karachi, North Nazimabad, Orangi Town, Saddar and Shah Faisal. REFERENCE: SINDH - THE GANGS OF KARACHI 2009 April 22, 11:52 (Wednesday) https://wikileaks.org/plusd/cables/09KARACHI138_a.html