Blasphemy protests: Normalcy returns to Chitral after three days of tension

CHITRAL: Although Section 144 has not been lifted in Chitral yet, life began returning to normal on Sunday following a spate of violent protests by the people in Chitral and Dir districts over alleged blasphemy by a deranged man.

Chitral Scouts and security forces continued their joint patrol to avoid any untoward incident and instructed people, on order of the district administration, to avoid unnecessary movement in the area. In order to quell the protest several check posts were set up at the entry and exit points of the district’s main towns.



Meanwhile, General Commander Officer Major-General Amir Ali visited the district and lauded Chitral scouts and local Ulema for their role in bringing peace and ensuring law and order in the area.

While talking to a high-level meeting at the DC office, Major General said that Ulema of the district have played a positive role in bringing peace and stability by thwarting the efforts and designs of enemies.



The GOC assured the public that the accused blasphemer will be punished under the law and no one will be allowed to disrespect the holy personality of Islam.

During his visit, Chitral Scouts Commandant Colonel Nazimuddin Shah briefed the Major General about the security situation of the district. He informed him that after three days of protests shops and markets have started to open in the district. He also told him that the education institutions of the area will open once the security environment becomes normal.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 24^th, 2017.