LAHORE: Punjab Assembly Speaker and acting governor Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan says if talks between the ruling PML-N and opposition PTI resulted in concealing any crimes, he will be the first to criticise it. He was talking to the media after opening a conference on Sufism here on Tuesday. He also addressed the relationship between the PML-N and PPP, saying there are no issues at the party level between the two. “While individuals may express different opinions, overall a strong working relationship exists between both parties.” Discussing Punjab’s governance, Khan said that the provincial government is paying special attention to public welfare projects as revolutionary steps are being taken to improve the health, education, and sanitation systems, while further enhancements in road infrastructure are also under way. He praised the Punjab chief minister’s decision on not procuring wheat last season as it proved to be beneficial over time and its positive impacts are trickling down to the public. Addressing the events of May 9, the acting governor categorised those involved in the incidents into two groups - those who were incited to attack, whose actions may be considered for leniency, and those who orchestrated the events, whose crimes are absolutely unforgivable. He condemned propaganda on social media and emphasised that there must be a clear distinction between politics and crime. “Burning down properties is not a political right, and a difference must be recognised between political expression and inciting unrest.” On a question regarding military institutions, Khan said the notion of gaining popularity by attacking military leaders and institutions must change, as it only fuels instability in the country. Earlier, opening the three-day Sufi conference at Alhamra, he emphasised that the teachings of Sufi saints have played a vital role in transforming hearts and spreading the true message of Islam across the region. Paying tribute to the Sufi saints of the subcontinent, he remarked that these revered personalities were institutions in themselves, winning hearts through their character and actions. He further added that love, peace, and the eradication of poverty are among the noblest causes, and this festival serves as a positive step in advancing this philosophy.