Colonial tradition: What is ‘lungi’?
The political agent of a tribal agency has the authority to award ‘lungi’ to anyone in recognition for his services.
PESHAWAR:
Lungi, also known as Kulla, is a turban traditionally worn by tribal elders across Fata as a mark of distinction.
The ‘lungi holding system’ was introduced by British colonial rulers after the signing of the first agreement with tribesmen of Khyber Agency in 1865. The accord was meant to ensure support of local tribesmen in logistic supplies to British troops in Afghanistan and their safety. It was followed by the Gandamak Agreement of 1879 and the Durand Line Agreement of 1893.
Until 1996, only lungiwals, or lungi holders, were allowed to cast their votes in the general elections in Fata. In the 1997, the adult franchise was extended to the tribal regions and all tribesmen were given the right to vote.
The political agent of a tribal agency has the authority to award ‘lungi’ to anyone in recognition for his services for the state. However, he makes the decision according to the directives of the president, prime minister, governor, chief minister, chief secretary, secretary home and tribal affairs and divisional commissioner.
Published in The Express Tribune, February 2rd, 2015.
Lungi, also known as Kulla, is a turban traditionally worn by tribal elders across Fata as a mark of distinction.
The ‘lungi holding system’ was introduced by British colonial rulers after the signing of the first agreement with tribesmen of Khyber Agency in 1865. The accord was meant to ensure support of local tribesmen in logistic supplies to British troops in Afghanistan and their safety. It was followed by the Gandamak Agreement of 1879 and the Durand Line Agreement of 1893.
Until 1996, only lungiwals, or lungi holders, were allowed to cast their votes in the general elections in Fata. In the 1997, the adult franchise was extended to the tribal regions and all tribesmen were given the right to vote.
The political agent of a tribal agency has the authority to award ‘lungi’ to anyone in recognition for his services for the state. However, he makes the decision according to the directives of the president, prime minister, governor, chief minister, chief secretary, secretary home and tribal affairs and divisional commissioner.
Published in The Express Tribune, February 2rd, 2015.