Islamabad | July 19, 2025
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Friday said the government will wait to see how the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) unfolds its protest plans scheduled for August 5 before deciding on its response strategy. Speaking to journalists at the Ministry of Interior, the minister suggested that while the government isn’t reacting prematurely, it remains prepared to respond appropriately when the situation calls for it.
Reforming the Federal Constabulary
During the briefing, Naqvi also shared details about ongoing reforms within the Federal Constabulary (FC), an often-overlooked yet crucial paramilitary force. He announced that FC personnel are being trained along modern lines, with a vision to transform the force into a more capable federal entity — mirroring certain aspects of US federal law enforcement models.
Naqvi revealed that the FC’s pay structure has been revised to bring it in line with other national security institutions, and improvements have been made to the FC’s Shuhada Package — a longstanding issue of disparity. “The FC comprises 24,000 personnel, and while this number won’t change for now, we are focused on improving the quality of the force,” he added.
Clarifications, Cautions & Crackdowns
When asked about reports suggesting a discussion between former US President Donald Trump and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir on Imran Khan’s political future, Naqvi chose not to comment, calling it speculative and unconfirmed.
He also walked back a controversial earlier statement in which he had suggested that even a Station House Officer (SHO) could handle terrorism in Balochistan. Clarifying the remark, he said it was meant metaphorically to highlight confidence in the police structure, not to undermine the complexity of the threat.
Notably, Naqvi claimed that both Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir had played diplomatic roles in helping ease tensions between Iran and Israel — a revelation that, if true, speaks to Pakistan’s behind-the-scenes international engagement.
Illegal Housing & Afghan Migrant Policy
Perhaps one of the most significant announcements was the upcoming crackdown on 133 illegal housing societies in Islamabad. The interior minister said the government is moving decisively against unauthorized developments and the land mafia operating in the capital.
Turning to immigration, Naqvi issued a firm warning that foreign nationals living in Pakistan without legal documentation will not be allowed to stay. He said there will be no further extension for illegal Afghan residents, stressing that Pakistan cannot afford unchecked immigration.
He noted that Iran has deported around 300,000 Afghans in recent months, and Pakistan will also begin blacklisting those Afghans who have failed to return despite repeated notices. However, he softened the tone by reaffirming that Afghanistan remains a “brotherly Islamic country” and dialogue with Kabul continues on multiple fronts.
Tackling Crime & Institutional Oversight
Naqvi also dismissed social media rumors about the disappearance of 40,000 Pakistanis in Iran as baseless, adding that no such incident has occurred. In the same breath, he announced plans for a crackdown on illegal call centers and the networks enabling them, warning that the state will not turn a blind eye to digital fraud and scams.
On administrative matters, the minister revealed that discussions are underway regarding the appointment of army officers to oversee eight key departments under the Ministry of Interior — including Rangers and GB Scouts. However, no final decision has yet been made about whether these officers will be from the retired or serving ranks.
The Bigger Picture
Minister Naqvi’s press talk offered a window into the government’s current security and administrative thinking — one that appears to balance firmness with caution. Whether dealing with political protests, illegal migrants, or land encroachments, the message was consistent: the state is watching, and action will come — but on its own terms, and at its chosen time.
