Jirga voices concern over lawlessness in Malakand Division

Issues 14-point declaration saying lawlessness in Swat, Dir, Malakanad, Buner and Shangla worrisome

CHAKDARA:

A grand Jirga, comprising of elders of Malakand Division including members of the provincial assembly and other politicians, was held in Chakdara which voiced strong concern over the increasing lawlessness in the area.

They said that the local residents will not become a part of aman lashkers like the past and no army operation will also be allowed against militants.

They said that the government should establish it writ and provide protection to the lives and property of the general public.

The Jirga issued a 14-point declaration, saying that lawlessness in Swat, Upper Dir, Lower Dir, Malakanad, Buner and Shangla was indeed worrisome.

It said that the past five months were really disturbing due to the return of TTP militants to the area and people were rightly worried about it.

Militants had not only openly showed their presence on mountaintops in Swat but also issued threats to local people and a PTI MPA was targeted along with former peace committee members in Dir and Swat.

MPAs also addressed the grand Jirga and said that no one will be allowed to disturb the peace in the area and a repeated of the 2009 will never ever be tolerated by the locals who were weary of the blood and guts.