Tensions Rise as Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Enforces Ban on PTM Activities

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has reinforced its ban on the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) following a federal decision to declare it a proscribed organization. The crackdown has led to clashes and highlights ongoing issues concerning Pashtun rights and state power in Pakistan, intensifying regional tensions.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's government is intensifying its measures against the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM), strictly enforcing a recent nationwide ban, reported Geo News. This decision comes on the heels of the federal designation of PTM as a proscribed entity, led by activist Manzoor Pashteen.

In a strong warning by Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, it was stated that any facilitation of PTM activities would be met with harsh consequences. Barrister Saif, spokesperson and advisor to the KP Chief Minister, confirmed the federal notification under the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), emphasizing PTM's actions as anti-state and unconstitutional.

Despite the prohibition, PTM attempted a public rally in Khyber district, leading to clashes with police. Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur seeks dialogue with community leaders for resolving the ensuing unrest. The ban, under ATA Section 11B, underscores significant regional tensions between government authority and Pashtun advocacy for human rights.

(With inputs from agencies.)