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PESHAWAR, Jan 31 (APP): A jirga of tribal elders and political leaders, convened in Bara, Khyber district under the banner of the Bara Political Alliance (BPA), on Saturday strongly criticized the provincial government for administrative failures in Tirah.
The jirga participants particularly condemned corruption and political interference in the distribution of a Rs4 billion compensation package for affected families.
The jirga members, however, paid tribute to the security forces for their efforts toward maintaining peace in the region.
The agenda of the jirga was presented by former Chairman of BPA, Haji Shireen Afridi.
The BPA reaffirmed complete solidarity, sympathy, and full support for all families displaced from Tirah.
Speaking on the occasion, Haji Shireen Afridi stated that jirgas were held twice with militants in the past, after which responsibility was handed over to the provincial government and Tirah elders, but both attempts failed.
He emphasized that the issues faced by the people of Tirah are not limited to a single area or tribe but constitute a collective national problem that can no longer tolerate delays.
The jirga unanimously demanded immediate implementation of its joint declaration.
The BPA called for the immediate restoration of complete peace in Tirah and a clear guarantee of sustainable peace in the future.
It also demanded pragmatic measures to stop firing, shelling, mortar attacks on houses, and incidents such as shooting down quadcopters, stating that such actions are spreading fear among locals.
The alliance urged authorities to ensure the dignified return of Tirah’s displaced persons and to honor and implement all promises and agreements made with them in both letter and spirit.
It further demanded impartial investigations into political interference, nepotism, administrative incompetence, and corruption in the registration process of affected families, with action against those responsible.
The BPA also called for granting IDP status and full registration to all residents owning homes or property in Tirah so they can be included in relief packages.
Expressing concern over the worsening law and order situation in Upper Bara and the Bara plain area, the alliance demanded urgent measures to restore peace.
Announcing the launch of a peace movement in Bara, the BPA said the initiative aims to provide a safe environment for the public.
It also urged the provincial government to fulfill its constitutional responsibility to protect citizens and put an end to kidnapping for ransom, threatening calls, and the climate of fear allegedly created by militants.
The alliance reiterated its resolve to stand by the affected people of Tirah on every forum and to continue its struggle until their rights are fully secured.