Grand Peace Jirga issues a three-day deadline

KARAK: A Grand Peace Jirga was held in Karak district due to deteriorating law and order situation. The Jirga issued a joint statement, offering full cooperation to the state authorities with a deadline for the operation.

The Jirga decided on a three-day deadline for armed groups to leave the area. After this deadline, the people will be forced to resort to armed response, the Jirga announced.

The attendees of the Jirga also assured all the necessary resources to the state police so that they can take effective action. The Peace Jirga decided that the counter-terrorism department (CTD) should be given full powers to fight against terrorists.

The Jirga announcement also said to ensure 100 per cent implementation of the National Action Plan (NAP), adding that action should be taken without discrimination by eliminating the distinction between good and bad Taliban.

“The state should show seriousness against terrorists, the people will fully support it,” the joint statement of Peace Jirga said. It was also decided to start a social boycott of terrorists after identifying their facilitators.

Provincial Agriculture Minister Sajjad Barakwal, Member of the National Assembly Shahid Khattak and leaders of multiple political parties, including Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), Awami National Party (ANP), Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI) participated in the Jirga.

Social organisations including Khattak Ittehad was also part of the meeting. Thousands of people from all over the district also attended.

CONVOY CARRYING FOOD, MEDICINES ENROUTE TO PARACHINAR

Meanwhile, a convoy consisting of small and big vehicles has left for Kurram district in Parachinar via Tul road, official sources confirmed on Sunday.

The convoy comprises of 120 vehicles and is carrying food items, medicines, fruits, vegetables and other essential items, the business community told media.

Official resources said that strict security arrangements have been made for the convoy.

This is the eighth convoy that left for Parachinar after the Kohat peace agreement.