ANP leader condemns mistreatment of Pashtuns in Islamabad, Punjab

PESHAWAR: Awami National Party (ANP) Provincial President Mian Iftikhar Hussain has strongly criticized the federal and Punjab governments over their treatment of Pashtuns, calling it discriminatory and unacceptable. 

Addressing an all-parties conference (APC) at the Governor’s House in Peshawar, Mian Iftikhar also voiced grave concerns about the deteriorating security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, reaffirming the ANP’s commitment to peace and the eradication of terrorism in the province.  

“The humiliation of Pashtuns is absolutely unacceptable, and this behaviour must stop at once,” he said, condemning the forced migration of Pashtuns from Punjab as a stark indicator of the growing crisis. 

On rising terrorism, he warned, “Terrorism has reached its peak in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The situation is extremely critical, and the federal and Punjab governments must shoulder the responsibility for any adverse outcomes.” 

The ANP leader lauded the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa governor for hosting the APC, describing it as a “positive step” toward uniting political forces. However, he noted that organising such a meeting should have been the provincial government’s responsibility. 

Mian Iftikhar also raised concerns about attacks on provincial autonomy, the delay in announcing the NFC Award and the likely wraping up of the 18th Constitutional Amendment.

Criticizing the failure of the federal and provincial governments to maintain peace, he said, “The provincial government, federal government, and the establishment must collaborate to eliminate terrorism in the region.” 

He called for urgent measures to address the crisis in Kurram district, cautioning that inaction could exacerbate the situation further. 

Expressing disappointment over the absence of ruling party representatives at the APC, Mian Iftikhar praised the KP governor’s initiative to invite all political parties. 

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Commenting on KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, he remarked, “We have no personal issues with him, but his position carries significant responsibility.” 

He emphasized the importance of political unity to tackle the challenges facing the province and restore peace. Reflecting on a previous meeting at the Khyber Jirga hosted at the Chief Minister’s House, he questioned the chief minister’s absence from the APC. 

Mian Iftikhar concluded by reiterating the ANP’s unwavering support for efforts to safeguard the province’s rights and achieve peace.

“The Awami National Party will stand with anyone who raises their voice for the province’s rights and peace,” he said.