Aqeel Malik defends operations, calls for judicial integrity & Toshakhana transparency

ISLAMABAD (ABN News) In a recent appearance on the program Sawal Se Aagey, Minister of State for Law and Justice Barrister Aqeel Malik stated that the ongoing defense operations are not unprecedented, emphasizing that similar actions have been carried out in previous eras.

He cited the 1979 Grand Mosque Seizure in Mecca as an example, noting that even then, close coordination existed between the government and security institutions. Over the decades, he said, this cooperation has evolved and been formalized through legal frameworks to strengthen it further.

Aqeel Malik pointed out that, regardless of the ruling party, successive governments have maintained a consistent policy on national defense and security, with full support from both the parliament and the public. Commenting on the recent resignations from parliamentary committees, he clarified that not all members have resigned — rather, some lawmakers have voluntarily stepped down from select committees of their choosing.

Addressing the judiciary, Malik urged judges to uphold the Constitution and the law to restore and preserve the dignity of the judicial system.

Regarding the Toshakhana (state gift repository) controversy, he asserted that in cases of theft or corruption, the primary beneficiary is usually well aware of any wrongdoing. Therefore, he stressed the importance of disclosing the complete details of items, including jewelry and other valuables held in the Toshakhana. He concluded by stating that if any violations of policy or law have occurred, the legal process must and will continue.