KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has accused Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, referred to as the “Butcher of Gujarat,” of orchestrating the Pahalgam incident to divert attention from domestic issues. Speaking at a protest rally organized by the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) outside the Karachi Press Club, Shah condemned India’s allegations against Pakistan and highlighted national unity in response to Indian aggression.

The rally, attended by leaders from various political parties including Jamaat-e-Islami, Awami National Party, and PML-Q, aimed to project a unified stance against the recent events. Shah criticized India’s swift blame on Pakistan following the Pahalgam incident and emphasized Pakistan’s history as a terrorism victim willing to cooperate with international investigations.

Shah noted that Pakistan’s offer of peace and cooperation to the global community, including the United Nations, was met with India’s rejection and subsequent attacks on six locations, resulting in civilian casualties. He praised the response of Pakistan’s armed forces, stating that it compelled India to retreat and highlighted the downing of five Indian aircraft and a drone by the Pakistan Air Force.

The chief minister reiterated that the nation’s response was a testament to unity and resolve, quoting PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s stance on peace and defense. The event also celebrated athletes who had recently triumphed over Indian competitors, boosting national morale.

Shah concluded his speech by affirming the nation’s readiness to defend its sovereignty, supported by representatives from all political parties. The rally featured speeches from several leaders, including Local Govt Minister Saeed Ghani, ANP’s provincial Minister Shahi Syed, and Senator-Elect Waqar Mahdi of PPP.