LAHORE: Nawabzada Shahzain Bugti, leader of the Jamhoori Watan Party and former federal minister, has formally requested security from the Punjab Home Department during his visits to the province.
In his letter to the department, Bugti expressed concerns about being targeted by hostile agencies and non-state actors due to his outspoken opposition to elements aiming to destabilise Pakistan.
He highlighted his frequent visits to Punjab for both political and personal reasons, emphasising the heightened risk to his safety during these times. Bugti cited his vocal stance against separatists, advocacy for Kashmiri rights, and criticism of Indian involvement in Pakistan as reasons for receiving threats from both domestic and international adversaries.
In response to Bugti’s request, Noorul Amin Mengal, Punjab’s Home Secretary, acknowledged receipt of the letter and forwarded it to the Additional Secretary of Internal Security for a threat assessment.
Deputy Secretary of Internal Security Maham Asif Malik confirmed that Bugti’s case would be reviewed by the Punjab Provincial Intelligence Committee. The committee will evaluate the threat level and decide on the provision of security.
Malik added that security statuses are reviewed every three months and can be extended if necessary. The outcome of the threat assessment will determine the required security measures to ensure Bugti’s safety during his time in Punjab.
