Province reinforces Centre's PTM ban

The government of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa has moved quickly to address tensions following the recent ban on the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) under Section 11 of the Anti-Terrorism Act.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Advisor to the Chief Minister on Information Barrister Dr Saif confirmed that the federal government had formally declared PTM a banned organisation, citing its involvement in anti-state activities.

The ban has resulted in the prohibition of all political activities, gatherings, and demonstrations by PTM with immediate effect. Despite the restrictions, PTM had recently announced plans to hold a gathering in Khyber district, prompting local authorities to enforce Section 144, which restricts public assembly. Earlier, a confrontation occurred between PTM supporters and police forces in Khyber District as the group attempted to proceed with their planned gathering.

Upon receiving reports of the clash, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, who was presiding over a cabinet meeting at the time, took immediate notice of the situation. The CM summoned elected members of the K-P Assembly from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party representing Khyber district, instructing them to engage with tribal elders and other stakeholders to seek a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

The provincial government is closely monitoring the situation. Efforts are being made to maintain public order and prevent any further escalation of tensions. Barrister Dr Saif clarified that restoring peace and security remains the top priority of the provincial government.