BATAGRAM:
Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Emir Hafiz Naeemur Rehman on Tuesday called for a united movement against the prevailing system, saying districts like Battagram remained deprived of basic facilities despite contributing to national resources.
Addressing a large public meeting titled ‘Haq Do Battagram Ko, Badal Do Nizam’ organized by JI, he said the district, which produces 120 megawatts of electricity, continues to face power shortage.
He also lamented systemic challenges, noting that around 2.3 million cases were pending in courts across Pakistan, raising questions about the judicial system, while unemployment was rising and access to healthcare remained limited.
He urged people to unite and take a stand against the system, saying the country spends 45 percent of its income on debt servicing, which hampers development.
He said Islam promotes unity and his party seeks to unite people across divisions.
Commenting on global events, he criticized Israeli actions in Palestine and said that only Jamaat-e-Islami was on the side of the Palestinians, while condemning the United States’ actions against Iran and its subsequent participation in ceasefire talks.
He expressed support for Iran’s stance and said Pakistan should move away from US policies and make independent decisions.
Hafiz Naeem said that Jamaat-e-Islami serves the public even without being in the government and announced that the party would provide free computer education to the youth of Battagram.
Criticizing dynastic politics, he said that leadership in other parties is inherited, while in his party it is earned through service.
He questioned why people in districts like Battagram are deprived of basic amenities, pointing out that 75,000 children do not go to school.
He said the party is launching a movement for a uniform and compulsory education system from April 25, with an aim to reach out to people at the village level.
He added that JI will participate in the elections for all village council seats and will strive to ensure the rights of the people, urging citizens to support the party to bring about change.
The meeting was also addressed by Hazara JI division chief Abdul Razzaq Abbasi and local leaders Saeed Ahmed Malkal, Anwar Baig and Dr Himayatullah, who said people must support Jamaat-e-Islami to end deprivation in Battagram.
Earlier, Hafiz Naeem was taken to the venue in a large convoy of hundreds of vehicles and upon arrival he received a warm welcome, after which he thanked the participants.
