SUCCESSFUL OPERATION LAUDED- ALTAF HUSSAIN
London-10 July 2007
Mr. Altaf Hussain, founder and leader of Muttahida Quami Movement (MQM) in a statement, paid warm tributes and commended the role of the armed forces particularly the Special Services Group (SSG) and other Officers and jawans of Pakistan Army who participated in the operation against the illegal, armed to the hilt occupants of Lal Masjid, Madrasah Hafsa, children’s library and the other enclaves within the boundary of the above places, very bravely, courageously and undauntedly. Needless to state that the Forces tried their best not to cause any harm to the innocent women and children who were being used as human shield by the armed terrorists. It was only after 3rd July when the terrorists opened fire upon the armed forces, without any provocation, that action was initiated on 6th day i.e on the evening of 9th July and that too very cautiously to avoid any harm to the innocent people.
He also paid rich tributes to Gen. Parvez Musharraf-the President and Mr. Shaukat Aziz, the Prime Minister including the paramilitary forces, Rangers, Police officers, high officials of the Intelligence Agencies, the Civilian Officers and the rank and file of the forces that completed the operation very successfully with great patience. He also appreciated the efforts made by the Ulema who tried their best to resolve this critical and crucial issue peacefully.
He further stated that such kind of illegal and terrorist activities by such elements, using lethal weapons that jeopardize national security and integrity of the country should not be allowed to be repeated anywhere throughout the length and breadth of the country, specially when such dastardly acts malign and distort the image particularly of Pakistan and generally of Islam.
Eulogising the role of the Government, Mr. Hussain added, that undoubtedly Government demonstrated its unprecedented patience over a period of last four months, against these armed illegal hundreds of occupants who indulged in most unconstitutional and illegal activities despite all warnings. Credit goes to the Government that though it tried to resolve this sensitive and crucial issue through protracted negotiations and all possible peaceful means, but unfortunately the occupants did not make any positive response.
In the last, Mr. Hussain, offered his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families of those Army Officers and Jawans who sacrificed and lost their precious lives bravely, as martyrs, for the cause of their country. Continuing, he prayed to Allah-the Almighty to keep the departed souls in peace and accord them a place in Jannat-ul-firdaus (Heaven) and give strength and fortitude to the family members to endure this irreparable loss. He also prayed early recovery for those who sustained injuries during this operation.