Pakistan Interior Minister Nisar Ali Khan today said that only terrorists will be tried in the special military courts being set up through an amendment in the constitution, allaying the fears of the politicians who feel that these courts might be used against them.
The courts would "try terrorists and terrorists only" and the accused will be given proper opportunity to defend him, he told reporters here after questions were raised over creation of such courts by sidelining the traditional judiciary.
Nisar said the army did not put any pressure on politicians for the formation of military courts and dismissed concerns that the special courts would strengthen the role of the powerful military in Pakistan.
"It is not necessary that a person who is tried in the military courts will be hanged. They can walk free from military courts if their innocence is proven," he said.
He said that the National Action Plan (NAP) will be implemented to eliminate militancy and provinces have much responsibility like the federal government and the army.
"Provinces need to take responsibility," Nisar said.
He said creation of military courts was just one aspect of NAP prepared to deal with terrorism.
He said action will be taken against those accused of hate speech or promoting sectarian differences.
Nisar said people should cooperate with government and report any suspicious activity to the helpline.
The minister said action will be taken against madarsas involved in militancy. He asked media to stop glorifying the militants or highlight their messages.
He also said that the "intelligence had issued reports regarding the attack on the Army Public School in Peshawar" that left 150 people dead, mostly children.
