Govt pressed to stop illegal constructions in Waziristan

Tribespeople say their houses are being demolished

PESHAWAR: The displaced population has pressed the federal government to stop illegal construction on their properties in Miranshah and other areas of Waziristan.

The demand was put forward during a news conference at Peshawar Press Club on Thursday. Speaking to journalists, Mohsin Dawar, the chairperson of the central organising committee of the National Youth Organisation, said the people of Waziristan have rendered tremendous sacrifices to restore peace and stability in the region.

“Scores of people have left their homes and properties due to the military operation,” he added. “However, their houses, shops and mosques have been demolished by the administration and new buildings have been constructed without their consent.”

He added, “Tribespeople have always sacrificed their lives for the country. However, we cannot take undue advantage of their sacrifices.”

Dawar said IDPs were living in a deplorable state and depriving them of their properties in this manner is entirely unjust. Naqeeb Gul, a tribal elder, said there were 72 petrol pumps in the region before the military operation.

“But now, there are only seven petrol pumps operational in the region,” he said. “Petrol pumps, shops and markets were looted and subsequently demolished without any reason.”

A large number of speakers said the government is taking their properties and shops in Miranshah, which was considered a hub of business activity in the region.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 9^th, 2016.