Altaf Hussain condemns dubbing Asma Jehangir as traitor

LONDON: MQM Chief Altaf Hussain Wednesday said that it was highly unfortunate to call those struggling for stability of the country, survival of democracy and basic human rights of deprived people, as traitors.

Calling people traitors because of ideological and political differences must end, he said while talking to former president Supreme Court Bar Association and noted human rights leader Ms Asma Jahangir on telephone, MQM press release said Wednesday. He expressed sorrow on calling Ms Jahangir as a traitor to the country by certain elements. MQM was also called a traitor for raising its voice for rights of deprived people.

On death threats being given to Ms Jahangir, he said it was undemocratic and unfortunate. More so for a lady who had offered immense sacrifices for human rights, independence of judiciary, civil liberties and had suffered incarceration because of her selfless struggle. Altaf Hussain assured full co-operation to Ms Jahangir and said MQM would stand by her in difficult time and in her struggle for democracy and human rights in the country.

Ms Jahangir thanked Mr Hussain for expressing sympathy, solidarity in difficult times and said she was greatly encouraged by MQM’s support, press release said. She agreed with MQM Chief that no one should be called a traitor because of ideological differences and political leanings. Restricting freedom of expression was not in interest of the country. She said democratic culture would take roots if a difference in opinion was tolerated and views expressed by others were heard in good spirit. (PPI)