Controversial Remarks by Pakistan's Defence Minister Spark Outrage

Khawaja Asif's Provocative Statements Raise Eyebrows

Islamabad: Khawaja Asif, the Defence Minister of Pakistan, has recently made headlines for his controversial remarks. His bold claims, including references to social media as evidence on an American news platform, and his assertion that students from madrassas (religious schools) represent a secondary line of defence for the nation, have left many questioning his suitability for the role.

During a recent National Assembly session, Asif stated that madrassa students would be called upon as a secondary line of defence when necessary. He remarked, "There’s no doubt that the youngsters studying in madrassas are our second line of defence. When the time comes, they will be utilized as needed 100 percent," amidst rising tensions with India.

This assertion has prompted widespread concern regarding the implications of such a statement. Many are left wondering why the Defence Minister would consider madrassa students as integral to national security, raising significant eyebrows.

Rights activist Tahira Abdullah expressed her dismay, stating, "No one in parliament could have taken this statement positively. It tarnishes Pakistan's already fragile image globally, where religious seminaries are often viewed as breeding grounds for extremist ideologies in the name of jihad and freedom struggles."

She further emphasized the absurdity of the Defence Minister's comments, especially given the ongoing tensions with India, which Pakistan accuses of promoting a Hindutva agenda and being anti-Muslim.

Another activist criticized Asif for his divisive rhetoric, suggesting that he is intentionally segregating madrassa students from their peers, positioning them as assets in potential conflicts, thereby intertwining religion with politics.

Saeeda Diep, founder of the NGO Centre for Peace and Secular Studies, remarked, "Asif's comments reflect a hardline religious mindset, viewing madrassa children as jihadists to be used against territorial adversaries like India, exploiting religious differences."

She added that such perspectives contribute to Pakistan's reputation as a haven for religious extremists, with madrassas often labeled as terror factories rather than educational institutions.

In a recent interview with a prominent British network, Asif candidly acknowledged Pakistan's historical support for terrorist organizations, attempting to shift some blame by referencing Cold War-era alliances with the West in Afghanistan. He stated, "We have been doing this dirty work for the US for the past three decades, including the West and the United Kingdom."