Elders hold jirga in Islamabad to help restore peace in Kurram

PARACHINAR: In a significant move towards restoring peace in Kurram district, tribal elders from both sides held a jirga in Islamabad where they suggested various measures to bring stability to the restive tribal district.

It was learnt that the meeting focused on preventing the misuse of social media, respecting each other’s beliefs, and ensuring the protection of mutual rights. The second session of the jirga is scheduled to be held in Peshawar.

Jirga member Syed Raza Hussain said that this was the first formal dialogue between the tribal elders amid the prolonged unrest in the district.

The meeting took place at the residence of former senator Sajjad Syed Mian which was attended by tribal elders and members of the Grand Peace Jirga.

During the discussions, tribal elders, including Jalal Hussain, Munir Bangash, Wali Syed Mian, and Irshad Bangash, emphasized the urgent need to curb the misuse of social media.

They urged the government to take action against those using digital platforms to spread discord.

The jirga addressed the importance of respecting religious sentiments and ensuring the protection of fundamental rights. Several points of agreement were reached during the discussions.

The second session, scheduled to take place in Peshawar, will focus on reopening key routes and implementing practical steps for long-term peace. The tribal leaders stressed that the ongoing instability had impacted local communities.

Meanwhile: The ongoing demolition of bunkers continued in Kurram where four more structures were dismantled in Balishkhel and Khar Killay.

According to district administration officials, a total of 22 bunkers had been dismantled so far as part of the peace agreement.

The prolonged closure of roads in the region, now extending over four and a half months, has caused severe shortages of essential supplies, including gas, oil, food, and medicine, leaving residents in a dire situation.

Social activist Mir Afzal Khan highlighted the challenges faced by residents.

He stated that a helicopter transported a group of overseas travelers from the Civil Stadium to Thall in Hangu. However, when the helicopter returned to Parachinar, it unexpectedly landed at the airport instead of the stadium, and only four passengers were taken to Peshawar, leaving many others stranded in both locations.