Police officials from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has publicly voiced frustration with the Punjabi Pakistan Army’s long-standing policies of violence, discrimination, and marginalization against the Pashtun people. The official said that local law enforcement would no longer comply with the “illegal orders” from the Punjabi military leadership against Pashtun civilians.
The statement highlights decades of exploitation since 1947, when the region came under the control of the Punjabi Pak Army. The Pashtuns are used by the Army for their own agenda, only to later label them as terrorists and target them.
This rare public criticism from within law enforcement circles comes amidst growing awareness and activism among Pashtuns regarding their treatment. The rampant militarization of the region has led to numerous abductions, enforced disappearances and extra judicial killing of innocent Pashtun youths, many reportedly unconnected to any activist activities.
The statement also touched on the dangers faced by journalists and members of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM), a civil rights movement, who have reportedly been subjected to violence despite their commitment to peaceful protest.
Of particular concern is the military’s practice of laying landmines in residential areas. This has purportedly resulted in tragic incidents, with children often falling victim to unexploded ordnance and rarely a terrorist.
This bold statement from the local police force underscores the increasing willingness of Police officials to speak out against the long-standing injustices.