Stand up for the Pakhtuns

This refers to the article ‘Listen to the Pakhtuns’ (Mar 5) by Zaigham Khan. The suggestions given in the timely article should be adopted by those who are at the helm of affairs. Since Independence, the Pakhtuns have sacrificed a great deal to ensure that the country is treading on the road to success. Now, these people have taken to streets to hold a peaceful protest – something which is alien to the country’s political scenario. Tribespeople want to get out of the limbo in which they are stuck since the British Raj.

If the government wants to win the hearts of the Pakhtuns, it can only do so through pure altruism. The region requires a sound strategy that uplifts public health and development rather than an approach that is fuelled by terrorism and counter-terrorism strategies. By taking to streets, these people have played their part. It now rests with the government to listen to their demands and pleas.

Professor Sher Mohammad Khan

Peshawar