IDPs Demand Repatriation to Tirah Valley Amid Protests

Khyber - The plight of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from the Rajgal area has reached a critical point, as hundreds of individuals have threatened to march toward Tirah Valley if the government does not take immediate action to repatriate them to their homes. This situation stems from military operations that forced thousands of residents to flee their hometowns over a decade and a half ago. Since then, these individuals have been living as IDPs in Jamrud and other towns across the province, enduring hardships and uncertainty.

During a protest gathering held at Bab-e-Khyber on Friday, prominent speakers, including Senator Mushtaq Ahmad Khan and Bara Sayasi Ittehad (BSI) chief Shareen Afridi, voiced their frustrations. They highlighted that a significant number of Koki Khel, a clan of the Afridi tribe, have not been officially recognized as IDPs, which they consider an injustice. These individuals have made sacrifices in support of peace efforts, yet their struggles have gone largely unnoticed by the government.

The speakers criticized the government for neglecting the sacrifices made by the Koki Khel community, which they argue were essential for the country’s security. They raised questions about the rationale behind the continued denial of repatriation for the remaining Koki Khel IDP families, especially in light of claims that militancy has been eradicated and the border is now secure.

Furthermore, the speakers condemned the police's actions in response to the Pakhtun Jirga (Pakhtun Court) camp organized at Regi Lalma, Peshawar. They emphasized that it is not a crime to demand the genuine and constitutional rights of the Pakhtun community. Despite billions of rupees being spent on peace restoration, many citizens still feel unsafe in their homes, which raises concerns about the effectiveness of these efforts.

The participants of the protest issued a stern warning: if the government does not repatriate them in the coming days, they will have no choice but to march to Rajgal on October 14, 2024, to address the issue of Koki Khel IDPs. It is important to note that these IDPs have been actively protesting and blocking the main Pak-Afghan highway, a crucial route for trade, for the past month and a half in support of their demands. However, their concerns have yet to be addressed by the government and relevant authorities.

This situation highlights the ongoing struggles faced by IDPs in Pakistan, particularly those from the Koki Khel community. As they continue to fight for their rights and seek justice, it is crucial for the government to listen to their voices and take meaningful action. The resolution of this issue is not just about repatriation; it is about restoring dignity and hope to those who have suffered for far too long.