Tribal district breaks new ground

In a landmark step for women's representation in tribal districts, social activist Razia Mehsud became the first woman appointed to the Dispute Resolution Council (DRC) in Upper South Waziristan, a move widely welcomed as a significant milestone for an inclusive community.

According to an official notification issued by the Dera Ismail Khan Regional Police Officer (RPO) on Monday, the 17-member DRC was constituted on the recommendation of Upper South Waziristan District Police Officer (DPO) Arshad Khan.

For the first time since the establishment of the council in the district, a woman was included among its members.

The DRC, established by Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Police, serves as a community-based forum that helps resolve local disputes through mediation, reducing the burden on courts while promoting accessible and peaceful conflict resolution.

Razia is expected to play a key role in addressing women's grievances, family disputes, and broader community issues. Local tribal elders, social activists, and community representatives believe her appointment will improve women's access to justice, particularly in cases where cultural barriers have traditionally discouraged women from approaching male-dominated forums.

Observers say the inclusion of a woman in the council is likely to encourage greater trust among female complainants, strengthen women's participation in local decision-making, and pave the way for broader gender inclusion in traditional conflict-resolution mechanisms across the tribal districts.