Pakistan Entrusts Hafiz Saeed’s Associate with Terrorist Control, Shahbaz Government Assigns Responsibility

ahir Asarfi has been given the responsibility to manage terrorists in Pakistan. A close associate of Lashkar-e-Taiba chief Hafiz Saeed, Tahir also holds the position of Pakistan Ulema Chief. The government says the committee under Tahir will communicate with terrorists.

The Pakistani government has assigned the task of managing terrorists to Hafiz Saeed’s close associate, Tahir Asarfi. According to Information and Broadcasting Minister Tarar, a committee of Ulemas has been formed to oversee terrorist activities while promoting peace and stability. Tahir Asarfi has been appointed as the committee coordinator.

Tahir is a known friend of Lashkar-e-Taiba chief Hafiz Saeed. On multiple occasions, Tahir has shared platforms with Hafiz Saeed. In 2018, he accompanied Hafiz Saeed to the Lahore High Court. Their combined influence in 2018 also led to the departure of the Palestinian ambassador from Islamabad.

Tahir Asarfi’s Profile
Tahir Asarfi, the Chief of Pakistan Ulemas, is recognized as an Islamic scholar. He resides in Punjab, the country’s largest province, and has completed his education in Islamic studies. Tahir is also active on social media, with around 55,000 followers on X.

In 2020, Tahir was appointed as an advisor on religious affairs during Imran Khan’s government. He is well-versed in Middle Eastern issues and has significant influence in Pakistani politics. He earned his education from Punjab University and worked as a journalist before pursuing his PhD.

Government’s Decision on Counterterrorism
Observing the rise in terrorist incidents across the country, Shahbaz Sharif’s government decided to form a Peace Committee. The committee includes Ulemas such as Haji Abdul Karim, Abdul Rahman, Arif Hussain Wahidi, Nakeeb ur Rehman, Hussain Naeemi, and Tahir Asarfi.

Tahir Asarfi serves as the committee coordinator. Representatives from other religious communities, including Hindu leader Rajesh Hardsani and Christian Bishop Azad Marshal, are also included. The committee’s primary objective is to engage in dialogue with terrorists and contribute to long-term stability in Pakistan.