Peshawar (Ghag Report):
As violent unrest grips Kurram district, the provincial government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has been criticized for its inaction and failure to address the security crisis that has now jeopardized the safety of judicial officers. Amidst escalating violence, local authorities have been forced to evacuate judicial officers and their families from Paara Chinar, a town caught in the crossfire of growing factional violence. The provincial government has arranged helicopter services to airlift the officers to safety, yet questions remain about the government’s overall commitment to ensuring security and governance in the region.
The ongoing crisis in Kurram, which has seen rising tensions for the past six days, has placed the judicial system under intense strain. In response to the dire situation, the Peshawar High Court, led by Chief Justice Ishtiaq Ibrahim, sought the intervention of the provincial government, which, until now, has appeared largely disengaged from addressing the pressing security issues. The court’s request to evacuate judicial officers underscores the gravity of the situation and raises concerns about the government’s inability to maintain control over its regions amid rising political turmoil.
Meanwhile, the Peshawar High Court’s hearing on the security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which was scheduled for today, was abruptly adjourned. Chief Justice Ishtiaq Ibrahim, alongside Justice Waqar Ahmad, had planned to discuss the escalating unrest, but the hearing was postponed to November 29. The delay has only added to the frustration surrounding the lack of timely action on critical matters related to governance and security in the province.
Sources within the provincial government have confirmed that the decision to rescue judicial officers was made under pressure, yet there is little indication that the government is prioritizing the long-term stability of the region. Critics argue that the focus on political infighting and power struggles within the provincial government has overshadowed the urgent need for good governance and effective security measures.
As Khyber Pakhtunkhwa grapples with growing instability, the local government’s failure to address security concerns highlights a wider issue of neglect, leaving residents and public officials vulnerable to escalating violence. With the provincial administration seemingly more focused on political maneuvering than on governance, questions about the leadership’s ability to protect its citizens remain unanswered.