BATTAGRAM:
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 the national resources.
Addressing a large public gathering titled ‘Haq Do Battagram Ko, Badal Do Nizam’, organized by JI, he said the district, which generates 120 megawatts of electricity, continues to face power shortages.
He also lamented systemic challenges, noting that around 2.3 million cases were pending in courts across Pakistan, raising questions about the justice system, as unemployment rose 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 revenue on debt servicing, which hampers development.
He said Islam promotes unity and his party seeks to bring people together across divisions.
Commenting on global developments, he lambasted Israeli actions in Palestine and said only Jamaat-e-Islami stood with the Palestinians, while also condemning US actions against Iran and subsequent engagement in ceasefire talks.
He expressed support for the Iranian position and said Pakistan should move away from US politics and make independent decisions.
Hafiz Naeem said Jamaat-e-Islami served the public even without being part of the government and announced that the party would provide free computer training to the youth of Battagram.
Criticizing dynastic politics, he said leadership in other parties is inherited, while in his party it is acquired through service.
He questioned why people in districts like Battagram are deprived of basic facilities, noting that 75,000 children are out of school.
He said the party would launch a movement for a uniform and compulsory education system from April 25, with the aim of reaching out to people at the village level.
He added that the JI would contest elections for each village council seat and work to ensure the rights of the people, urging citizens to support the party to bring change.
Also speaking at the rally were Hazara JI division chief Abdul Razzaq Abbasi and local leaders Saeed Ahmed Malkal, Anwar Baig and Dr Himayatullah, who said people should support Jamaat-e-Islami to end deprivation in Battagram.
Earlier, Hafiz Naeem was brought to the venue in a grand procession of hundreds of vehicles and was warmly welcomed upon arrival, after which he thanked the participants.
