Govt moves to quell Kurram conflict

Forms special commission to settle land disputes

PESHAWAR:

The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) government has taken crucial steps to address longstanding land disputes in the Kurram tribal districts, which have often led to violent conflicts among clans.

Recent unrest in the district, resulting in at least 25 fatalities and numerous injuries, along with disruptions to daily life due to highway attacks, has prompted urgent action.

The clashes were initially triggered by a disputed video posted by an individual who was subsequently arrested by the police. However, this incident escalated into sectarian violence. Villages with preexisting land disputes also seized the opportunity, causing the conflict to spread to approximately 70% of the Kurram district.

In response, a series of Jirgas (tribal councils) have been convened in the Kurram district over the past week. These gatherings, facilitated by the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government and law enforcement agencies, featured the participation of regional leaders, government officials, and law enforcement agencies. These collaborative efforts have yielded visible improvements in the local situation.

Also read: Kurram elder sign peace deal after deadly clashes

To restore normalcy in the region, the government is actively working to reopen previously closed roads within the next one to two days, ensuring the delivery of essential supplies, including food and medicine.

A significant development in this context is the establishment of a special land commission by the government, tasked with addressing land disputes in the Kurram district. This commission’s work is nearing completion, offering hope for a resolution to longstanding conflicts.

Despite the tragic loss of 25 lives in the ongoing clan clashes, there is a positive development as both parties have agreed to gradually vacate bunkers, signaling a step towards reconciliation.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 2^nd, 2023.