THE Pakistan Army, which demonstrated remarkable restraint during highly provocative acts on the dark day of 09 May, has conveyed in categorical terms that restraint would no longer be exercised against perpetrators, spoilers and violators who attack military installations and setups under any circumstances. A statement issued after a special Corps Commanders’ Conference (CCC) affirmed that those involved in attacks on military installations, personnel and equipment during violence created on May 9, would be tried under relevant laws of Pakistan Army including Pakistan Army Act and Official Secrets Act. The conference observed that based on the irrefutable evidence collected so far, the armed forces are well aware of the planners, instigators, abettors and perpetrators of the attacks and attempts to create distortions in that regard were absolutely futile.
The measured response of the Pakistan Army to the attacks on military buildings and attacks is appreciable as it avoided a direct clash of the institution with the protestors and the decision to hold trial of those involved in attacks on military installations and personnel under Army Act is a clear message that criminal elements would not be spared. The decision is understandable as it comes in the backdrop of serious question marks over the quality of justice being delivered these days and the need for prompt action against those who picked up courage to indulge in attacks against a national institution. Though some circles point to human rights when it comes to try civilians under the Army Act, the decision must be supported by all in view of the highly polarized judiciary and the nature of the crimes committed by those involved in attacks on 09 May. No one should worry that trials under the Army Act would become a tool of victimization as no one owns the responsibility. Even, in a tweet on Monday, PTI Chairman Imran Khan went to the extent of blaming the ‘agencies men’ for arson and shooting in some areas on that day, claiming they have ‘ample evidence’ to prove that. This means PTI is disowning and distancing itself away from those ugly incidents and, therefore, it should have no objection to such trials where proceedings would take place against those who are being identified thoroughly through modern technology like CCTV footage, videos, telephone calls, statements of the leadership and media reporting. The defence forces are symbols of national defence and security and, therefore, there should be no sympathy for those who attacked military installations or torched pride heritage like the aircraft used by our hero Air Commodore MM Alam to down six Indian aircraft under a minute to create a world record during the 1965 War.
