Media seminar in N Waziristan marks a new beginning

MIRAN SHAH: There was something different in the air of Miran Shah — a longing for peace, echo of dialogue and courage to speak the truth. Once considered a symbol of fear, silence and uncertainty, North Waziristan was now witnessing a historic moment where journalism, questions and truth were openly discussed. Military officers were very supportive in arranging the dialogue and were silently listening to the dialogue; no one was stopped or interrupted from speaking.

Organised under the banner of Miran Shah Division of Pakistan Army with assistance from Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the seminar saw a large attendance of journalists and students. But what surprised everyone was the strong participation of women — a clear message that a society once bound by traditions was now looking toward new paths. 

Women participated actively in the seminar and asked questions. Journalists from North Waziristan, South Waziristan, Bannu, Karak and surrounding areas, as well as office-bearers of the press clubs, also participated in the seminar.

The seminar lasted several hours. This correspondent highlighted the obstacles to restoring peace in North Waziristan, including cross-border infiltration, weak governance and propaganda that distorts the truth. Iftikhar Firdous spoke about the importance of investigative journalism and the challenges of accessing ground realities. Hassan Khan and Aqeel Yousafzai offered an in-depth discussion on the politics of the Afghan border, the background of extremism, and impact of social media.

The seminar was attended by GOC Miran Shah Major General Adil Iftikhar Warraich and senior representatives of the ISPR and other civil and military officers. However, their presence remained supportive and observatory, which allowed for an even freer dialogue. Local journalists and students were given complete freedom to ask questions. Topics like the necessity of security operations, access to information, local governance failures, press freedom and problems of journalists were openly discussed.

Despite spanning several hours, no major controversy emerged during the seminar. The discussions were of a general nature — the kind any conscious society would engage in. And as someone candidly put it, “Complaints and grievances are only made to one’s own [people].” At several moments, the hall echoed with applause. Participants felt that such media seminars should be held from time to time so that issues can be openly discussed and solutions can be proposed.