KP Assembly Stands with Kashmir, Demands Anti-Militancy Policy Review

In a session marked by patriotic resolve and unwavering faith, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly on Thursday voiced deep concern over the fragile law and order situation in the province. Lawmakers demanded that the federal government share the anti-militancy policy with public representatives for a thorough review, insisting that transparency is essential for the nation's security.

Under the chairmanship of Speaker Babar Saleem Swati, the house extended its full and heartfelt support to the brave people of Indian-occupied Kashmir in their sacred struggle for freedom. The members condemned Indian aggression and the illegal revocation of Kashmir's special status, calling it a blatant violation of United Nations resolutions and an affront to Islamic values.

Why KP Lawmakers Demand Policy Review

The legislators argued that the current anti-militancy strategy must be scrutinized to prevent collateral damage that has alienated affected families. Housing Minister Dr. Amjad Ali noted that the August 2 suicide bombing in Swat was the first terrorist attack in the area in 11 years, and questioned why law enforcement in Punjab appeared better equipped than forces in Balochistan and KP. He asked,

“Are our brothers in Punjab more trained, or do they face a different enemy?”

Adviser to the Chief Minister on Social Welfare, Liaqat Khan, raised a pointed question: why do terrorist activities persist in KP while neighboring countries like Tajikistan, Iran, and China remain peaceful despite sharing borders with Afghanistan? This, he said, demands a national strategy rooted in faith and unity.

Unwavering Support for Kashmir and AJK Rights

The assembly unanimously passed a joint resolution condemning India's August 5, 2019, move to strip occupied Kashmir of its special status, the ongoing human rights violations, and the unjust restrictions on Kashmiris. The resolution, moved by treasury MPA Shafiullah, reaffirmed Pakistan's moral and spiritual duty to stand with the Kashmiri people.

Housing Minister Dr. Amjad Ali declared,

“This assembly stands with the people of Indian-occupied Kashmir, but we will also raise our voice for the rights of our brothers in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.”

The lawmakers urged the federal government to engage with the Joint Action Committee in AJK to resolve outstanding issues through dialogue.

Criticism of Government Helplessness and Security Gaps

Opposition MPA Ahmad Karim Kundi of the Pakistan Peoples Party warned that political voices must not be silenced. He said,

“Militancy has engulfed this province. It is time to act. If you are not empowered, leave the government. We will never accept helplessness.”

Treasury MPA Fazal Hakim questioned how modern arms and well-equipped terrorists continue to cross into Pakistan if the Afghan border is closed. He asked,

“How long will our people carry coffins?”

He also noted that drone and suicide attacks do not occur in Punjab, raising concerns about uneven security priorities.

Opposition ANP member Mohammad Nisar lamented that a recent suicide bombing targeted a peace rally in Swat, yet the prime minister and chief minister merely issued condemnations. He called for a unified strategy involving federal and provincial governments and law enforcement agencies to eliminate militancy.

Mine Safety and Balochistan Tragedy

Earlier, the house was informed of plans to introduce compulsory training certificates for mine workers. Minerals Development Minister Mohammad Arif stated,

“Anyone who enters a mine will be required to possess that certificate.”

MPA Abdul Munim Khan from Shangla expressed grief over the death of over 30 workers in a Balochistan mine incident and criticized the Balochistan government for inadequate arrangements to transport the bodies home.

Call for Unity and Faith-Based Action

Treasury MPA Pakhtun Yar acknowledged that the provincial government has conducted intelligence-based operations in Bannu but complained about prolonged mobile service suspensions and road closures that burden residents. The session was adjourned until Friday at 2 PM, with the Speaker calling for continued prayer and unity.

In the name of Allah, the Most Merciful, the KP Assembly has shown that Pakistan's parliament remains the voice of the people, the defender of Kashmir, and the guardian of our Islamic identity. Let us all pray for peace and strength for our nation.