Pashtun Identity and Challenges: A Discussion with Levsa Bayankhail
Role of the Pashtun National Jirga
Levsa Bayankhail, the Convener of the Pashtun Security Dialogue at the Indic Researchers Forum, emphasized the importance of the Pashtun National Jirga in preserving Pashtun identity. She highlighted the historical significance of the Jirga in addressing challenges posed by Pakistan and foreign powers.
Challenges Faced by Pashtuns
Bayankhail discussed the issues of proxy wars, terrorism, and internal disunity affecting Pashtun society. She pointed out that the Pakistani state has manipulated some Pashtun leaders for geopolitical gains, leading to severe consequences like human rights abuses and enforced disappearances.
Divisions and Responses
The divide among Pashtuns across the Durand Line has hindered a unified response to their struggles. Bayankhail noted that Pakistan’s education system and extreme religious interpretations have further divided the community. In response to reported atrocities by Pakistani forces, the Pashtun National Jirga has taken a strong stance, with protests spreading globally.
Future Strategies and Leadership
The Jirga aims to develop strategies through collective decision-making, valuing every participant’s opinion. Manzoor Pashteen’s leadership in the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) has focused on peaceful protests and dialogue, advocating for human rights and accountability.
International Support and Unity
The ban on PTM by Pakistan has increased support among Pashtuns, leading to a growing sense of unity. Bayankhail called for international support, highlighting the sacrifices made by Pashtuns in their struggle for justice and urging the global community to hold Pakistan accountable for human rights violations.
Doubts Revealed
Levsa Bayankhail -: Levsa Bayankhail is a person who is involved in discussing and addressing issues related to the Pashtun community. She is a leader who talks about the challenges faced by Pashtuns.
Pashtun -: Pashtuns are a group of people who live mainly in Pakistan and Afghanistan. They have their own language and culture.
Indic Researchers Forum -: The Indic Researchers Forum is a group where people come together to discuss topics related to Indian culture, history, and society.
Pashtun National Jirga -: The Pashtun National Jirga is a traditional assembly of Pashtun leaders who come together to make important decisions for their community.
Proxy wars -: Proxy wars are conflicts where countries support different groups to fight on their behalf, instead of fighting directly.
Human rights abuses -: Human rights abuses are actions that harm people’s basic rights and freedoms, like unfair treatment or violence.
Manzoor Pashteen -: Manzoor Pashteen is a leader of the Pashtun community who advocates for their rights through peaceful protests.
PTM -: PTM stands for Pashtun Tahafuz Movement, a group that works to protect the rights of Pashtuns.
Pakistani repression -: Pakistani repression refers to the unfair treatment and control of Pashtuns by the Pakistani government.