Islamabad, Pakistan – Web Desk: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) senior leader and former prime minister Raja Pervez Ashraf has strongly reacted after his name surfaced in allegations linked to a woman accused in a drug case, calling for stricter regulation of social media and protection of reputations until investigations are completed.
Addressing the National Assembly, Ashraf said a woman accused in a drug-related case had mentioned his name, while her lawyer later claimed that pressure was being exerted to implicate him. He rejected the allegations, stating that he has maintained a “clean and transparent life.”
He stressed the need for a legal framework that prevents individuals from being named during ongoing investigations, arguing that premature accusations damage reputations and “tarnish the dignity of respectable citizens.”
Ashraf said unverified claims circulating on social media were causing serious harm to families and public figures, and urged authorities to set clear boundaries for digital platforms. He added that baseless allegations were not permitted under religious or legal principles.
National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq said action had already been initiated against a vlogger accused of making allegations inside Parliament, adding that accountability measures were necessary to address false claims.
Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar said the government would defend the dignity of all lawmakers and take strict action against defamation. He noted that individuals involved in crime often attempt to divert investigations by naming prominent figures.
He further said media coverage of the accused should be reviewed by relevant authorities, stressing that laws exist and must be enforced without discrimination.
The Speaker also highlighted the growing threat of drug-related crimes, describing narcotics as a “serious social danger” and urging federal and provincial governments to intensify efforts to combat drug trafficking and protect youth.
