Member National Assembly (MNA) Ali Wazir has ordered the destruction of houses of pro-government tribal elders in North Waziristan, sparking tensions in the area.
The issue sprang up in the backdrop of a public rally in Khaisor area of North Waziristan a few days back which was held in response to an appeal by Hayat Wazir of Khaisor against the alleged harassment of his family members by the security personnel.
Following the rally, Wazir Jirga was held which declared the accusations of the family against security forces baseless and concocted. The Jirga also pledged to look into the matter and decide on a future course of action itself, telling other tribes to not interfere in Wazir affairs.
Following the Wazir Jirga, MNA Ali Wazir called an independent jirga of Wazir tribes hailing from different cities and declared that the tribal elders at the Wazir Jirga had told lies and falsely defended the security forces, hence as a punishment their houses would be demolished under the tribal traditions. He asked the participants to give two to four individuals per family to demolish the houses of four pro-government tribal elders of Ali Khel who had rejected allegations against the security personnel as baseless and concocted. The tribal elders included Malik Umer, Malik Noor Rehman and Malik Raza Khan.
The announcement by an elected representative to demolish houses of tribal elders has heightened tension in the area. Following the announcement, local tehsildar and assistant commissioner reached the area and negotiated with the residents. Necessary security arrangements have also been taken including deployment of extra troops to avert any untoward situation and stop planned demolition of the houses.
The authorities have warned the residents that anyone found indulged in the illegal activity will be charged under clauses related to terrorism, inciting people to damage public property, and inciting people against government institutions besides creating a sense of insecurity amongst the people.
Published in Daily Times, February 2nd 2019.
