The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) provincial cabinet has approved a state of emergency in Kurram and Khyber districts due to the prevailing security situation.
The 19th Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur also approved measures to seize assets of individuals involved in money laundering and terrorist financing and to establish a new girls’ cadet college in Dera Ismail Khan.
Addressing the cabinet, CM Gandapur claimed that the Kurram conflict was not a case of terrorism but a clash between two groups. He expressed concern over the spread of sectarian hatred and accused some elements of concocting false narratives to escalate tensions.
“People in the area want peace, but some elements are trying to spoil the situation with sectarian hatred,” he noted, adding that these elements are creating false narratives that are difficult to twist.
The government’s peace efforts
The CM revealed that the government was making all efforts to find a peaceful solution to the issues through talks and jirgas as several jirgas were held at various levels for a sustainable solution to the Kurram issue.
He also reiterated that there is no justification for rampant illegal heavy weapons in the region. He clarified that the provincial government does not allow armed groups to retain such weapons and is determined to dismantle the illegal armed checkpoints by February 1.
“The government has no policy to allow any armed group to hold illegal heavy weapons,” the CM stressed.
In addition, the government has decided to set up a special police force consisting of 399 personnel to secure the Parachinar Road, a critical lifeline for the region. Temporary security checkpoints will be set up first, followed by permanent installations. “The road will be opened after the agreement between the two parties,” informed the meeting.
The Cabinet was informed that about 10 tons of medicines were airlifted by helicopters to address the shortage in the affected areas. Over the past two days, 220 residents have also been transported by government helicopters to ensure their safety.
Military operations
Addressing the speculations, Chief Minister Gandapur categorically stated that no decision has been taken regarding military operations in Tirah and Janikhel. He assured that the government would favor peaceful means to resolve disputes and uphold its responsibility to protect people’s lives and property.
