Swat motorway on farmlands opposed

Jirga demands of govt to control inflation, terrorism in the region

SWAT:

The Swat Qaumi Jirga has once again expressed deep concerns regarding the escalating lawlessness and surging terrorism within Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), particularly in the Swat district, emphasizing that another wave of terrorism is intolerable.

The Jirga vehemently opposes the construction of the Swat Motorway on agricultural lands and instead advocates for its development along the Swat River to preserve invaluable agricultural terrain. Speaking at a press conference held at the Swat Press Club, Jirga leaders conveyed their determination to launch a district-wide movement against the government’s land acquisition, unauthorized home raids, and the arrest of local residents under the Third Schedule of the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO).

Expressing grave concerns, they pointed out the resurgence of terrorist activities in Swat, which has gone unnoticed by the relevant authorities.

They stressed that it is the state’s responsibility to take effective measures to restore law and order. However, the negligence of law enforcement agencies has exacerbated the deteriorating situation throughout the province. The people of Swat are yearning for peace to lead secure lives.

The Jirga leaders recalled past negotiations between the previous government and the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), facilitated by Barrister Saif, who attempted to provide a safe passage for terrorists to return.

They cautioned that if terrorists once again infiltrate Swat, the community will resist vigorously.

The Jirga leaders urged the government to reconsider its decision to construct the Motorway on fertile lands and implored them to refrain from forcibly acquiring land. Additionally, they demanded an end to the arbitrary arrests of locals under the Third Schedule of the MPO. The people of Swat have made significant sacrifices for the nation, but they are growing weary due to rising inflation and unemployment.

In the event that the government fails to restore peace in the region and control inflation, the people of Swat may have no alternative but to take to the streets in protest.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, September 13^th, 2023.