Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Erupts in Protest Over Army Shelling of Civilian Areas

Residents of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province blocked a major highway on Thursday. They were protesting alleged army shelling on their homes and mosques. The demonstrations brought traffic to a standstill.

The protestors accused the military of targeting civilian areas during an anti-terror operation. This action, they claim, violates a prior peace agreement with authorities.

Protestors Decry Violation of Peace Pact

The protests occurred in the Kosar area along the Bajaur-Peshawar Highway. People from Lra Banda, Shagi, and several other villages participated. They sat on the road, halting all vehicular movement completely.

According to Dawn, protest leaders called the army’s actions intolerable. They stated authorities had promised not to target locals during operations. This pledge was reportedly made on August 14 before a separate operation.

Several political and social activists joined the demonstrations. Bajaur Aman Jirga chief Sahibzada Haroon Rashid helped lead the protest. Senior PTI leader Dr Khalilur Rehman also addressed the crowd.

Community Leaders Secure Assurance From Officials

Sahibzada Haroon Rashid spoke to the gathered protestors. He called the shelling a clear violation of their August agreement. He and other speakers urged authorities to protect public life and property.

The demonstrations lasted for several hours. Rashid later informed the crowd that officials had provided an assurance. The deputy commissioner promised civilians would not be targeted going forward.

This incident highlights the ongoing tension in Pakistan’s northwestern regions. The delicate balance between security operations and civilian protection remains a critical challenge for the government.

The widespread protests underscore deep-seated local frustrations. The resolution of this Pakistan Army shelling incident will be closely watched. Community trust hinges on the military honoring its commitments to protect civilians.

Thought you’d like to know

Where did the protests in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa take place?

The protests were held in the Kosar area. This location is along the busy Bajaur-Peshawar Highway. Residents from multiple neighboring villages joined the demonstration there.

What was the main reason for the protests?

Protestors alleged the Pakistan Army shelled civilian homes and mosques. They stated this occurred during a recent anti-terror operation. They claimed these actions violated a prior peace agreement.

Who led the protests against the shelling?

The protests were led by the Bajaur Aman Jirga, a local council. Its chief, Sahibzada Haroon Rashid, was a key leader. Members of Imran Khan’s PTI party also participated actively.

How did the authorities respond to the demonstrations?

The deputy commissioner engaged with protest leaders. He provided an assurance that civilians would not be targeted. This promise led to the dispersal of the protest after several hours.

What was the specific violation protestors cited?

They cited a violation of an agreement made on August 14. Authorities had promised then that the local population would not be targeted. The recent shelling directly broke that agreement.