Staff Report
ISLAMABAD: Shahid Rasheed Butt, a noted business leader and former president of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry, stated on Wednesday that following India’s defeat and subsequent diplomatic embarrassment, the country has become like a cornered snake, ready to strike.
He warned that a restless Modi, fueled by frustration, might seize the opportunity to initiate an attack during the auspicious celebration of Eid. In light of this looming threat, he emphasized the urgent need for Pakistan to bolster its defensive readiness, enhancing its vigilance and preparedness in anticipation of potential hostilities.
The business leader also emphasized the need for vigilance against non-traditional warfare methods, including cyber warfare, economic warfare, and propaganda.
Talking to the business community, Shahid Rasheed Butt said that a cunning adversary like India should never be underestimated. He said that a cut of one hundred billion rupees in the development budget is insufficient.
He said that defence must be the top priority in the upcoming budget as half the national budget is consumed by debt servicing. At the same time, trillions are distributed among provinces and politicians. Most development funds are lost to corruption, nepotism, and flawed planning, resulting in no relief for the public.
Dr. Butt proposed redirecting political funds to the armed forces to strengthen national defence. He noted that India’s defence budget is ten times greater than Pakistan’s, and ignoring this disparity would be suicidal.
He said that failing state-owned enterprises cause trillions of rupees in annual losses, and eliminating them could generate significant savings. These resources could be better used for defence, education, healthcare, and economic progress.
He called on politicians to sacrifice their funds for the sake of the country, saying that their political future depends on Pakistan’s survival. He emphasized that the enemy’s intentions and preparations demand alertness at all levels. Every segment of society must be prepared to make sacrifices for national security, defence, and stability.
This is a time to prioritize national interest over personal gain, he said, adding that India is promoting terrorism after its failure. India is funding and supporting terrorist groups in Pakistan. Terrorist hideouts and training centres in neighbouring countries must be targeted.
Shahid Rasheed Butt also said that the enemy is attacking not only from across the border but also through the economy, media, and social platforms. Therefore, preparations must include both conventional and unconventional warfare.
Dr. Butt reiterated that national unity, trust, and sacrifice are the cornerstones that enable nations to overcome crises. It is the responsibility of every citizen to understand their role and contribute to the country’s defence, economy, and stability.
He urged that the youth must be shielded from misleading propaganda and guided towards national awareness, unity and productive activities. If the nation unites, no force in the world can harm Pakistan.
He also noted that inflation had already spiralled out of control before Eid and the budget. The government must take adequate measures to bring it under control. The people are already suffering from inflation, unemployment, and uncertainty and their situation cannot bear further deterioration.
Shahid Rasheed Butt warned that military aggression is only part of the threat. The psychological and economic war India is waging must be recognised and countered. Pakistan’s enemies are working on multiple fronts, and only a whole-of-nation approach, including policy reform, public awareness, and military readiness, can guarantee survival and long-term peace.
