May 02 , 2015
News
Altaf extends apology over ‘RAW assistance’ statement
LONDON: Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) Chief Altaf Hussain has extended an apology over his overnight statement, regarding allegedly seeking help from Indian spy agency RAW.
In a clarification statement issued here Friday, Hussain said, “My last night's speech was presented out of context. The RAW assistance statement was used satirically, however, if these words have hurt sentiments of national security institutions and patriotic people of the country then I extend a heartfelt apology.”
Altaf made it clear that Muhajirs have association only with Pakistan, adding that Pakistan was, is and will remain their homeland.
He said, “Our elders sacrificed 2 million lives for the creation of Pakistan and we are their offspring. Muhajirs were and are loyal to Pakistan.”
The controversial speech drew strong reactions from all quarters in the country including the civilian government and the armed forces.
The ISPR termed the statement 'disgusting and uncalled for' while warning that such remarks won’t be tolerated in the future.
CM Punjab Shahbaz Sharif urged the MQM workers and officer bearers to disassociate themselves from Altaf's Statement while Defence Minister Khawaja Asif remarked that the statement cannot be from a Pakistani.
Information Minister Pervaiz Rashid said that criticism of the country's security institutions was tantamount to protecting criminals.
The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) also issued a show-cause notice to 14 TV channels for airing the speech in question live after a letter written to it by the government.
Courtesy www.thenews.com.pk