'Only superman could have saved those tourists:' PTI leader's remarks on Swat tragedy draw ire

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Barrister Salman Akram Raja came under fire for his remarks defending the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government following public outrage over its delayed response in rescuing 18 tourists caught in a flash flood in Swat.

Speaking at a press conference on Sunday, Raja said the country is facing multiple crises, including terrorism and natural disasters, and that governments should not be blamed for "isolated incidents."

He maintained that it was unrealistic to expect the entire provincial machinery to respond instantly, adding that natural disasters happen all over the world and politicising such tragedies by blaming a particular government or party is not justified.

Read: Body of child swept away in Swat River flash flood found in Charsadda

 “When a flash flood occurs and people get stuck, only a Superman could save them. People criticising that the KP Chief Minister or helicopters should have reached the spot immediately is unfair,” he said.

The tragic incident took place early Friday morning when 18 tourists were swept away by powerful currents while having breakfast near the Swat River. So far, 13 people have lost their lives.

Raja's comments quickly drew criticism on social media, with many slamming his remarks as insensitive and dismissive.

Social media users and local residents, including victims’ families, accused the KP government of negligence and failing to launch a timely rescue operation, which they believe could have saved lives.

Of all the disgusting, tone deaf, callous remarks to make. I guess entry into PTI requires leaving basic humanity at the door. https://t.co/oW9JBUEAUi

— Anny Marri (@Anny_Marri) June 30, 2025

Salman Akram Raja is an intelligent and dignified man.

He should absolutely refrain from dying on the hill defending Pakhtunkhwa’s government, and PTI Pakhtunkhwa, for being inefficient, corrupt, and hopeless at governance.

Even PTI’s own voters know this in the province. https://t.co/EBh7lmLPbj

— Mehrub Awan (@mehrubawan) June 30, 2025

Extreme callousness and arrogance by Salman Akram Raja.

Highly ignorant also considering the Dawn News correspondent in Swat informed the Zara Hatt Kay team that it took an hour for the flood to get to Swat from Khwazakhela https://t.co/18Q7YloISW

— Shehzad Ghias Shaikh (@Shehzad89) June 29, 2025

PTI’s callousness is criminal and must be called out. Salman Akram Raja’s statement is deeply irresponsible and stands condemned in the strongest terms. https://t.co/O9ZbG8VsfS

— Kasim Gilani (@KasimGillani) June 30, 2025