Fazlur Rehman Criticizes Law Enforcement for Failing to Counter Terrorism

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI) Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has strongly criticized Pakistan’s law enforcement and security institutions, stating they have failed to curb terrorism and safeguard citizens.

Speaking to the media in Charsadda, Maulana Fazl said the state is responsible for ensuring the protection of life and property, but it has continuously fallen short. “Despite facing terrorism for over four decades, our institutions appear helpless,” he remarked.

He questioned why Pakistan can respond to India within hours, yet remains unable to control internal terrorism. Fazl claimed state institutions seem unserious in their efforts to eliminate terrorism.

He further criticized authorities for blaming civilians for harboring militants, noting that people in regions like Swat and Waziristan evacuated within hours, and many remain internally displaced to this day. “Now once again, people are being asked to vacate their areas,” he added.

Fazlur Rehman emphasized that the public should not be scapegoated for the failures of state institutions, urging security forces to reassess their own policies and adopt a respectful tone when dealing with citizens.

He called for constructive dialogue with Afghanistan instead of hostility and urged officials to engage with the people of KP as fellow Pakistanis.

Rejecting the idea that institutions are above accountability, Fazl declared, “No institution or its members are above the law or supernatural.”

Blaming the establishment for the current deteriorating situation, he accused law enforcement of shifting blame to hide their own inefficiency.

Regarding PTI, Fazlur Rehman said JUI would not respond to insults or provocation, and clarified he has not called for a no-confidence motion in KP. However, he emphasized the need for political change, even within PTI, stating that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa cannot afford further instability.