KURRAM: (Shamim Shahid): Kurram is considered the most sensitive but strategically important tribal district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, bordering Afghanistan, which was badly affected by sectarian-based terror in last four decades. Commencing in mid of 80’s, sectarian continued till beginning of current calendar year i.e., 2025.
Such imposed, dictated, externally and internally sponsored and financed clashes caused the lives to hundreds of people from both sides. However, the authorities concerned realising their responsibilities, succeeded in enforcing a fragile end to sectarian clashes couple of months back. Besides destablising hundreds of positions and disarming scores of people from both sides, the authorities also forced elders from both sides of signing peace agreements. However, still, evils from both sides are making their best to sabotage these remarkable achievements.
In this respect, a peace and development conference was held in Parachinar, the district headquarters of Kurram tribal district, under the auspices of 73 Brigade, on Tuesday. The Conference aimed to review ongoing development projects, strengthen tribal harmony and outline a future course of action for lasting peace in the region. Commissioner Kohat Syed Moatasim Billah Shah, Commander 73 Brigade, the Deputy Commissioner Kurram, tribal elders, religious scholars, civil and military officials and representatives of major national and regional media outlets attended the event.
Participants were briefed on the current security situation, developmental activities and challenges facing the district. Speakers emphasised the need for sustainable peace, continuity of development projects and inter-tribal unity. Tribal elders urged the authorities to resolve revenue-related issues on priority accelerate public welfare schemes and ensure people’s participation at the district level. They also called for strict action against the elements using social media or other platforms to incite unrest. The conference concluded with a joint pledge by all stakeholders to remain united for Kurram’s peace, progress and prosperity.
Authorities concerned, especially Commissioner Kohat and Commander of 73rd Brigade deserves appreciation for arranging such an important event. Instead of making stereo type decades old official statement, state authorities must focus attention on eliminating root causes, which generating sectarian and religious hater in the society. Unfortunately, in connection with the so-called Cold War inherited from the previous British colonial era and owned by US spy agencies, sectarian and religious hate was mysteriously promoted for nefarious strategic and economic purposes.
Not only Pakistan and Afghanistan, considered but even declared Front Line by US led allies first against Holy Jihad against USSR and later war on terror, but almost Asian region in particular and rest of the world is suffering and paying for sectarian and religious hate.
Hidden purposes and objectives of such religious and sectarian hate, terrorism and extremism is now exposed. All these sectarian tension, religious extremism and remote-controlled violence is not in interests of locals-both governors and governed. Instead, continuing role as silent spectator or as a partner-now responsibility rest with no other than occupants of important musical chairs in parliament, executive, judiciary and media to realise and address their due responsibilities at this crucial stage.
Not only tribesmen of Kurram or Pushtoons from all over Khyber Pakhtunkhwa but people from all over the country have been made fed up by prolonged terror. They are desirous for a durable and sustainable people, which is the basic right of human being irrespective of race, religion and color .
