PPP makes extension in Rangers' powers a 'bargain tool': sources

After recent actions taken by paramilitary Rangers against close associates of a key political figure of Sindh, provincial departments and officials, the matter of extension in Rangers’ powers became controversial for the first time.

The matter kept hanging on Wednesday as the CM Sindh in his statement first hailed Rangers role, followed by his claim of a good working relationship existing among Sindh government, federation, Rangers and military.

He denied reports suggesting strain between Sindh and federal governments.

The chief minister in his word with media also praised the Army Chief General Raheel Sharif.

Meanwhile, soon after a press conference by Inter Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan, the CM Sindh called on Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.

During the meeting, former president Asif Ali Zardari was also connected via telephone line and the PPP elders had an exchange of views on Rangers’ powers.

And eventually the cat was out of bag, as sources privy to all discussions told that Sindh government for giving extension in Rangers’ powers seeks guarantee that action against corruption in various departments is not the authority of Pakistan Rangers. And Rangers should only act to curb terrorism, target killing and extortion practices.

On the other hand, the federation is active to resolve the matter between Sindh government and the Pakistan Rangers.

If the matter could not be resolved, then it will be the Sindh Assembly to decide on it.