Gaddar (Traitor) Narratives: The Discursive Construction of the Anti-State agent in Pakistani Political Discourse

Abstract

This study examines the informal structure of the word “Gaddar” (traitor) in Pakistani political speech, with specific importance on top political statement on Twitter (now X). Portrayal on Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), as hypothesized by Fairclough and van Dijk, the study observes how allegations of betrayal are linguistically shaped and tactically arranged to delegitimize political disagreement, reporters, and public people performers. Using a qualitative inquiry of tweets from confirmed Pakistani political legislatures throughout times of political struggle, the study detects frequent word shapes, sociopolitical inclosing, and mix language use that build binaries of nationalist contrasted with traitor. The conclusions reveal that “Gaddar” narratives meaning as thoughtful sociopolitical outfits to moralize faithfulness, defeat opposition, and strengthen hegemonic power assemblies by framing political disparity as an existential risk to the state.

Key word: Gaddar (traitor), Twitter( now X), Qualitative inquiry, Hegemonic power, Political disparity, Sociopolitical narratives.