Massive protest in Swat demands end to terrorism

Thousands of residents turned out at Matta Chowk in Mingora Swat on Friday for a large-scale protest against a recent wave of unrest and terrorism in the district, sending a clear message that the people of Swat will not tolerate violence or bloodshed in their area.

The demonstrators chanted slogans and carried placards denouncing terrorism and demanding that the state and its institutions take immediate steps to restore law and order. Organizers described the turnout as a "public referendum" against terrorism and said it demonstrated the people's commitment to peace.

Speaking at the rally, MNA Dr Amjad Ali Khan, Provincial Minister Fazal Hakeem Khan, ANP leader Ayub Asharade, Mingora City Mayor Shahid Ali Khan and other leaders praised the public response and called on the government to act swiftly. "The people of Swat are peace-loving, conscious and patriotic," Dr Amjad Ali Khan said, urging authorities to ensure the safety and security of every citizen.

Speakers stressed unity between the people and the provincial government and warned that no one would be allowed to sabotage peace in the province or the region. "Terrorism and lawlessness are intolerable for the people of Swat," one leader told the crowd, adding that citizens had collectively decided not to allow anyone to destroy the tranquillity of their homes.

All local parliamentarians, including MPA Ali Shah Khan, elected representatives and community elders joined the protest, lending it broad political and civic support. Organizers emphasized that the movement transcended party lines and pledged to foil any conspiracy aimed at destabilizing the district through popular mobilization and cooperation with state institutions.

The demonstration was punctuated by chants of "We want peace" and "We will not let Swat become a battleground again," while banners and placards repeatedly called for decisive action against those responsible for recent attacks.