SWAT: Student organizations in Swat have formed a joint alliance to advocate for students’ rights, launch anti-drug awareness campaigns and oppose the imposition of federal taxes in the Malakand Division.
The newly established platform, Muttahida Talaba Swat (United Students of Swat), announced its agenda during a press conference at the Swat Press Club. Alliance leaders said the group would work collectively to address student issues and coordinate with stakeholders to pursue their resolution.
Alliance opposes federal taxes in Malakand
Addressing the media, alliance leaders Dr. Fazal Subhan, Sulaiman Khan, Muhammad Usama, Muaz Nangyal and others said one of their primary objectives is to oppose the implementation of federal taxes in the Malakand Division.
They said that although the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has announced tax exemptions for the region, an official notification has not yet been issued. The alliance urged the federal government to withdraw the decision to impose federal taxes.
The student leaders added that they would engage with the business community, civil society organizations and other stakeholders to develop a coordinated strategy on the issue.
Student groups raise concerns over drug abuse
The alliance also highlighted concerns about drug use among students and the number of children out of school in the Malakand Division.
The student representatives claimed that nearly 500,000 children are out of school across the region, while an estimated 12,000 to 22,000 students are using drugs. They described the situation as a serious challenge requiring immediate attention.
They said the alliance plans to launch awareness campaigns and work with the relevant authorities and district administration to support efforts aimed at preventing drug abuse among young people.
Protest warning if demands are unmet
The alliance gave the federal government until August 5 to reconsider its decision on federal taxes in the Malakand Division.
Student leaders said they would announce the next phase of their protest campaign if their demands are not addressed by the deadline.
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