HRCP Urges Government to Address Spiraling Violence in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) calls on the government to combat extremism and protect citizens amidst increasing violence in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. HRCP plans a fact-finding mission to probe tribal conflicts and sectarianism contributing to the unrest and urges fulfilling commitments to former tribal areas.

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has condemned the worsening law and order situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, urging the government to take decisive action against extremism and safeguard the lives and rights of citizens. Recent incidents include the killing of a policeman in Swat, the kidnapping of polio workers in Dera Ismail Khan, and assaults on policemen in Nasir Bagh and Bajaur.

Expressing concern over the escalating violence, particularly in the Kurram district, the HRCP announced plans to deploy a fact-finding mission to the area to explore whether tribal conflicts and sectarianism are key contributors. The mission will gather information from local communities and government sources to understand the root causes of the violence. The HRCP highlighted the tragic loss of life, displacement of families, and severe restrictions on access to mobile services, schools, hospitals, and markets.

Earlier, on September 28, a large rally in Mingora, Swat district, protested against terrorism and opposed military operations, calling on 'state-sponsored Taliban forces' to halt anti-Pakhtun actions to avoid the country's disintegration. Rally speakers criticized intelligence and security forces for failing to secure foreign diplomats during their Malam Jabba visit on September 21, leading to a terrorist attack.

The HRCP reiterated its stance that military operations aren't a viable solution to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's security challenges. They emphasized the need for well-trained and equipped civilian forces to maintain law and order and accountability for those involved in violence. Additionally, the HRCP urged the fulfillment of financial and developmental commitments made to the formerly tribal areas in line with the 25th constitutional amendment.

(With inputs from agencies.)