Split in two: Kohistan blockade continues for sixth day

Police source claims announcement calling dispute to end imminent

KOHISTAN: The dispute between Palas and Pattan tribes continued to wreak havoc in the lives of Kohistan’s citizens for the sixth consecutive day, confining residents of 400 villages. The administration and local representatives have yet to persuade Pattan tribes to allow residents of Palas to enter their territory.

Tension between the two sides was sparked by a PHC decision which nullified the bifurcation of Kohistan.

Since the move to turn lower Kohistan into a separate district was initiated by Adviser to Chief Minister and PTI MPA from PK-61 (Kohistan-I) Abdul Haq Khan, it was taken as a humiliating blow by his tribe. The MPA hails from Pattan. According to JUI-F MPA Maulana Asmatullah from Palas, the Pattan tribe took revenge by blocking the road leading to its territory on Sunday.

He claimed armed people from Pattan barred the entry of Palas residents and exposed locals of 13 union councils to great difficulties. He said villagers were facing a food shortage and could not take their patients to Pattan.

A police source told The Express Tribune that Pattan tribes agreed to open the road after jirgas were held. He claimed a proper announcement would be made by Saturday morning (today).

Kohistan MNA Sarzamin Khan was not available for comments despite repeated attempts.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 27^th,  2016.