Democracy would not have been challenged if taken care of, says Siddiqui

Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, addressing the joint session of Parliament, said that Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif is the leader of democracy. He added that if anyone asks PM to resign it means that he expects the premier to act like an elder.

He added that his party is against the attacks on democratic institutions, while the rulers should also not hold back from giving sacrifices, if the need arises.

“The responsibility of saving democracy is in the hands of elected leaders. Democracy can never be strengthened unless it reduces corruption, poverty and its benefits are delivered to the nation”, Siddiqui said.

“I would like to request Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to strengthen democracy so much that the masses come out of their homes and support it”, he added.

MQM leader said that democracy will never be strengthened if it is considered a “family business”.

He also condemned the attack on Pakistan Television (PTV) building.

Siddiqui said that justice should be given to the families who lost their loved ones in the Model Town incident and if it is a conspiracy then it should be exposed.

He also said that the decision of not using force should be made a tradition for the entire country, so that a message is sent that all citizens are equal Pakistanis. He added that the people, whom he represents, face steel bullets instead of the rubber ones.

MQM leader further said that the elements claiming to free Karachi should take their protesters along and free Kashmir.

“Won’t a treason case be filed against me or my leader if I had announced to start a civil disobedience movement while sitting in Islamabad? A message should be sent to clarify that everyone has equal rights”, Siddiqui said.