Hotel owners protest against anti-encroachment drive

MINGORA: Tension has gripped parts of Swat as hotel owners and workers have protested against what they termed discrimination, harassment, and the selective application of law enforcement actions during the anti-encroachment drive after the recent tragedy in which 17 tourists were swept away by flooded Swat River.

The demonstrations, mostly peaceful, reflected public frustration over the disconnect between authorities and small business operators in the region’s hospitality sector.

According to eyewitnesses and local sources, law enforcement agencies have been conducting unannounced raids on small hotels and inns, allegedly without legal warrants or proper documentation.

Multiple hotel owners have alleged the wrongful detention of staff and workers, many of whom were later released without any formal charges.

“We are not criminals; we are only trying to earn an honest livelihood,” said a hotel owner while speaking to The News.

He said most of those arrested have no criminal background and are ordinary people supporting their families. Protesters alleged that the crackdown unfairly targeted small businesses and low-income earners, while giving preferential treatment to those with political influence.

The locals believe that the law was being applied selectively. One protester cited examples of political protection, claiming that a wedding hall allegedly owned by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Member National Assembly Saleem Rehman was untouched by authorities, despite reportedly falling under the same category of infractions.

Similarly, a hotel belonging to Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz leader Ameer Muqam continues to operate freely and is visibly guarded by armed personnel.

“This is a discrimination,” said a hotel worker, requesting anonymity. “Some people are facing raids and arrests, while politically connected individuals enjoy immunity. This dual standard is unjust,” he said.

The perception of inequality has only deepened the rift between local residents and the administration. Protesters held placards and chanted slogans demanding an end to what they call “selective justice.”

“The public wants justice, not double standards,” said a resident during a protest rally. “If one illegal building is being demolished, then all illegal structures—regardless of who owns them—must face the same action,” he stressed.

The government officials have responded by reiterating that ongoing operations are being conducted lawfully and without discrimination.

However, the lack of transparency and continued reports of biased enforcement have failed to reassure the public.

Community leaders have demanded an immediate review of current police procedures and called on the government to initiate dialogue with representatives from the hospitality sector.

They warned that the unrest could intensify if authorities fail to address the grievances of the working class.