Protest seeks missing student's recovery

A protest sit-in organised by the action committee was held in Battagram on Tuesday against the mysterious disappearance of a medical student, with participants demanding his immediate recovery and giving the authorities a 24-hour deadline to trace him.

The demonstration attracted a large number of local residents, political leaders and civil society representatives. Among those who participated were Ayaz Torkheli of the Awami National Party (ANP), Ghulamullah Torkheli of PTI Nazriati, Hazrat Yousaf of Jamaat-e-Islami, Bakhtiar Akhunzada of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI), President of the Press Club Ehsan Naseem, and former Tehsil Nazims Khanzada Zafar Ali Khan and Niaz Muhammad Khan Tarand, along with several other prominent figures.

The protesters criticised the relevant government institutions and security agencies, expressing serious concern over the increasing incidents of unexplained disappearances. They said such occurrences create fear and uncertainty among citizens, leaving them feeling insecure and vulnerable. The participants urged the security agencies to fulfil their responsibilities and ensure the safety of the public.

Bilal, a medical student belonging to Kiar Gali in Battagram, left his home on June 14 for his college in Islamabad. Family members said he briefly stopped at the Mansehra Lorry Adda for some personal work. However, shortly afterwards, both of his mobile phone numbers became unreachable, and no contact has been established with him since.