The Pashtun National Jirga has accused the Pakistani government and military of unleashing a fresh wave of oppression, arrests, and violence against peaceful activists. The group claims these actions, carried out under the guise of security operations, are deliberately aimed at the Pashtun community.
Arrests and Disappearances After Peace Protests
Following peace demonstrations organised by the Jirga, several human rights and anti-war activists have been detained or gone missing. According to the group’s post on X, many detainees were arrested under the controversial colonial-era ordinance 3MPO. Among them is PTM Peshawar coordinator Bilal Orakzai, who has disappeared without being presented before any judicial authority.
Criticism of Provincial Government and Military Control
The Jirga condemned the treatment of Orakzai, questioning why an innocent person is being targeted. They accused the PTI-led provincial administration of inaction and alleged that “all authority is dictated by the army” and “the state apparatus serves army generals, not the people—especially not the Pashtun community.”
Unprovoked Gunfire in Mir Ali
In another update, the Jirga reported that troops from the Mir Ali military camp opened fire without provocation at 1 a.m. towards Ikam Khel village. During the gunfire, a 12-year-old boy was shot in the head and is now fighting for his life in hospital. The group demanded accountability, asking, “What offence did this innocent and faultless child commit?”
PTM Holland Condemns Attack on Civilians
The Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM), Holland Chapter, called the shooting an “unprovoked and unjustifiable act of aggression” by the military. Eyewitnesses said the sudden gunfire caused panic, forcing residents to shelter indoors. PTM Holland confirmed the injured boy, identified as “Hazoor,” is the nephew of one of its members and remains in critical condition at Khalifa Gul Nawaz Hospital.
Pattern of Violence Against Pashtuns
Residents and PTM Holland stressed that this is not an isolated incident, alleging repeated military attacks on civilians in the region. So far, authorities have issued no statement or clarification regarding the shooting.
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