Emergency imposed in KP as its security situation was becoming threat to 'national security': minister

Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar informed the National Assembly on Wednesday that emergency measures have been put in place in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) due to escalating security concerns, which pose a threat to national security. This decision came after discussions during question hour, which temporarily halted proceedings. The opposition members maintained a calm demeanor throughout, refraining from any protests.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhry presented a motion regarding the implementation of emergency, while Law Minister Tarar initiated the debate.

Tarar emphasized that for the emergency proclamation to be valid, both houses of parliament must ratify it according to Article 232 of the Constitution. He informed the assembly that during the Federal Cabinet meeting on October 11, evidence related to terrorism in the province was reviewed. Following this, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was advised to recommend the imposition of emergency.

Tarar highlighted "internal disturbances" and cross-border infiltrations as contributing factors to the deteriorating security situation.

He specifically mentioned that the unrest since October 15, 2025, following the KP government's ascension under Sohail Afridi's leadership, has reached alarming proportions. Tarar asserted that terrorism in KP has risen sharply since 2021, particularly after the new government took office. He suggested that foreign, diplomatic, and political factors might have played a role in the surge, which was exacerbated by a political party's stance.

According to Tarar, between October 15, 2025, and October 9, 2026, there were 3,787 incidents of terrorism in KP, a significant increase from the 2,911 cases recorded from 2021 to 2024.

The minister criticized the KP Chief Minister for disregarding the sacrifices of martyred security and police personnel, instead focusing on advancing his political ambitions and conducting nationwide tours. He warned of a potential storm, likening it to the PTI's plan to organize a long march towards the federal capital. Tarar praised NA Speaker Ayaz Sadiq for facilitating dialogue between the center and the opposition within the house.

He defended his government's stance, noting the PML-N's demand for changes in the agreed draft, which was later abandoned. They also criticized the PTI for requesting the release and relocation of its founder, Imran Khan, who they believed could only be granted such relief through the judicial system.