Government Forms Joint Task Force to Combat Malicious Propaganda Against State
The Pakistani government has established a 10-member Joint Task Force (JTF) to identify and take action against individuals, groups, and organizations involved in malicious propaganda targeting the state. This decision, approved by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, comes in response to recent incidents of terrorism, vandalism, and a coordinated campaign aimed at discrediting national institutions, especially security forces.
According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, the JTF will focus on identifying the perpetrators behind fake and misleading news spread via domestic and foreign media platforms. The propaganda, it stated, seeks to disrupt law and order, fuel provincial and ethnic divides, and serve specific political interests.
JTF Composition and Mandate
The JTF will be led by the chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and include representatives from key agencies such as:
- Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI)
- Military Intelligence (MI)
- Intelligence Bureau (IB)
- Cyber Crimes Wing of the FIA
- Islamabad Police DIG
- Ministry of IT
- Interior and Information Ministries
Other officials may join the task force as needed.
The JTF has been tasked with:
- Identifying individuals, groups, and organizations responsible for creating and spreading false information, including during the November 24–27 protests in Islamabad.
- Tracing perpetrators behind malicious campaigns both domestically and internationally.
- Recommending measures to address policy gaps and prevent similar incidents.
The panel is required to submit its findings within 10 days to ensure swift action against those involved.
Political Tensions and PTI’s Role
The government has accused the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), led by former Prime Minister Imran Khan, of inciting violence and spreading “anarchy” through propaganda and rallies. This includes the May 9 events and the recent protests demanding Khan’s release from Adiala prison.
The JTF’s formation underscores the government’s commitment to countering disinformation campaigns and ensuring accountability for actions that threaten national security and unity.
