Man Filming TikTok on Container, Not Praying: Info Minister Tarar
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar stated on Saturday that the man seen in a viral video being forced down from a container during a Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest was not praying, as claimed, but recording a TikTok video.
Speaking to reporters in Rawalpindi, Tarar dismissed PTI’s allegations, explaining that the individual, a resident of Mandi Bahauddin, is alive and only sustained minor hand injuries. According to Tarar, the man was fulfilling a challenge from a friend to film a TikTok video on the container.
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The video, which sparked criticism of authorities, circulated during PTI protests at D-Chowk, where clashes reportedly claimed several lives. PTI alleged that 20 of its members had died, while the government reported five law enforcement officers martyred in the violence.
Authorities launched a crackdown on PTI protesters on November 27, dispersing the gathering and arresting over 1,000 workers, including Afghan nationals. Officials also seized tear gas and ammunition from the site.
Government’s Response to PTI’s Allegations
During a press conference, Tarar accused PTI of fabricating narratives, including claims of sniper attacks and direct firing, and condemned the “politicisation of dead bodies.” He clarified that no bodies were received by major hospitals, as confirmed by their reports.
Tarar accused PTI of using artificial intelligence to create fake images and circulating outdated photos from their tenure to mislead the public. He highlighted inconsistencies in their claims and criticised the opposition for using misleading videos, some from the Middle East, to falsely depict violence at D-Chowk.
The minister praised the government for stabilising Pakistan’s economy, noting that foreign reserves now exceed $11 billion. He criticised the opposition for attempting to disrupt progress whenever the country begins to stabilise.
Allegations of Opposition Misconduct
Tarar accused PTI members of firing AK-47s and failing to provide evidence of alleged state violence. He claimed that TV channels showed opposition leaders fleeing the scene and pointed out that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur fled twice during the unrest.
The minister dismissed PTI’s claims about Rangers firing on protesters, asserting that the security forces were unarmed. He also accused PTI of sabotaging the Belarusian president’s visit and burning their own container to stir chaos.
Vows of Accountability
Tarar vowed swift trials for those arrested, promising no leniency for individuals involved in spreading false narratives or inciting violence. He called on traders to demand compensation for losses caused by PTI’s protests.
The minister concluded by accusing the opposition of pursuing an anti-state agenda and attempting to derail economic progress, declaring that their true motives have been exposed.
