At least 20 people have been injured and two killed in escalating violence between Shia and Sunni tribes in Kurram district, highlighting a disturbing pattern of sectarian strife and the Pakistan Army’s failure to provide adequate security. Despite the evacuation of bunkers, intermittent firing continues, with reports of three missiles landing in Sadda, Central Kurram, causing significant damage to local infrastructure.
The conflict erupted over a land dispute, further inflamed by demands from Shia Muslims in Parachinar for a blasphemy case against Sunni Muslims in Sadda. The Sunni community has labeled Shias as heretics and insulted revered figures, exacerbating tensions.
Shia residents have long faced insecurity and vulnerability, a direct consequence of the security agencies’ inadequate response to extremist threats. The recurring attacks and violence have claimed numerous innocent lives, leading to rising frustration and anger among the minority Shia population.
The Punjabi Pak Army’s failure to protect its citizens, particularly vulnerable groups like the Shia community, is a significant governance failure. The Army’s inaction in the face of rising sectarian violence reflects the treatment of minorities as second class citizens, leaving them exposed to ruthless terrorists.