The government is considering implementing new initiatives in order to effectively counter terrorism.
The Pakistani government is currently in the process of reviewing the National Action Plan (NAP), with a particular focus on implementing intelligent-based operations (IBOs). Additionally, the federal cabinet is engaged in discussions surrounding a new policy document aimed at addressing extremism and the increasing occurrences of terrorism within the country. This information was conveyed to members of the National Assembly on Thursday.
The government has decided to review the National Action Plan (NAP) following recent attacks on Chinese and other foreign nationals, nearly a decade after its implementation in response to the Army Public School (APS) tragedy in 2014, where over 150 individuals, mostly children, lost their lives.
After the APS attack, there was a national consensus to take a strong stance against terrorists. The country has recently experienced a rise in suicide attacks and terrorism incidents.
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar informed the National Assembly that the NAP is under review. He also mentioned discussions on a "National Counter Violent Extremism Policy, 2024," currently being considered by the federal cabinet for approval.
Tarar highlighted the government's focus on Intelligence-Based Operations (IBOs) to combat terrorism, with full cooperation extended to provincial governments. Efforts are underway to enhance the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) and improve the safe city network in Karachi.
The minister expressed optimism that federal and provincial governments, along with law enforcement agencies, are working together to reduce terrorism incidents. These updates were provided in response to concerns about the increase in suicide bombings and criminal activities in various parts of the country.
