Pakhtunkhwa is grappling with a new set of challenges under the dictats of Pakistan, marked by a disturbing increase in target killings and resource exploitation. Over the past two days, more than six people have been reported killed, highlighting a severe security crisis in the region.
The residents of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa are facing a heightened threat to their lives, with incidents of target killings becoming alarmingly frequent. Despite the region being heavily militarized, the Pakistan Army has failed to curb these violent incidents, leaving the populace vulnerable and unprotected.
On May 23, the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) held a protest rally and demonstration in Dhaka city against the burning of Pashtuns’ heavy-duty vehicles in Dhaka Baghai, drawing massive public participation. The protest aimed to highlight the continuous target killings and exploitation faced by the Pashtun community.
Earlier, on May 22, six trucks laden with coal were fired upon by unidentified assailants and subsequently set ablaze. This incident further underscores the precarious security situation in the region and the targeted attacks on Pashtun resources.
According to claims by local activists, the incident happened despite Pak Army extorting additional money in the name of security.
Over all the situation of Pashtuns remain precarious as they face multifaceted challenges, both from Pak Army and other fringe elements. On the other hand, Pak Army uses these incidents to project itself as a victim.
During the rally, PTM leaders raised their voices against the ongoing target killings of Pashtuns and demanded an immediate cessation of such cowardly acts. They called for the Pakistani government and military to take swift and effective action to protect the lives and properties of the Pashtun people.