The federal government has established a cabinet committee to investigate the May 9 violence instigated by PTI supporters following the arrest of their leader in the Toshakhana case. Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar initiated the committee formation, with Law and Justice Minister Ahmed Irfan Aslam appointed as the committee head. Other members include caretaker ministers of interior, information and broadcasting, and human rights.
The committee’s mandate includes investigating the origins, planning, and execution of the May 9 violence, along with presenting recommendations to prevent such incidents in the future. The violence on May 9 involved PTI supporters attacking military installations, including the Corps Commander House in Lahore and ISI offices, and torching Radio Pakistan Peshawar. Social media played a role in inciting violence, with evidence suggesting pre-planning.
Individuals like Adil Raja engaged in propaganda before May 9, indicating premeditation. Videos surfaced online showing the mob attacking and setting fire to buildings and vehicles while chanting anti-state slogans. Despite initial government approval for military trials, the Supreme Court ruled against civilian trials under the Army Act. However, a subsequent six-member bench suspended the earlier verdict, allowing for a reevaluation.
New videos continue to emerge, showing PTI workers targeting ISI offices in Faisalabad and engaging in violence. The government remains committed to addressing the incidents and holding those responsible accountable for their actions. The proactive formation of the cabinet committee underscores the government’s dedication to investigating and preventing such acts of violence in the future.