Pakistani Army Fires on Peaceful Pashtun Protesters in Bannu
In Bannu, Pakistan, on July 19, the Pakistani defense forces reportedly opened fire on peaceful Pashtun protesters. These protesters had gathered to voice their concerns about the increasing incidents of terrorism in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa district.
Thousands of people participated in the protest, demanding measures for peace. Qazi Muhammad Tahir, a member of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM), stated on ‘X’, ‘Today, dozens of bodies were injured and several martyred by firing from Bannu Army cantt on Bannu peace march.’
The PTM issued a statement calling the Pakistani Army the ‘biggest terrorist organization in the world’ and emphasized the need to ‘get rid’ of them. The statement added, ‘In Bannu, the army is sending a message through street firing that the army does not want peace at all. The name of peace on the flag was reddened with the blood of Pashtuns.’
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Senior Vice President, Sher Afzal Khan Marwat, also criticized the incident, describing the shootings as ‘disheartening.’ He stated, ‘It is disheartening to witness such brutality inflicted upon innocent Pakistanis, exercising their fundamental right to peaceful protest.’
Marwat further added, ‘It is imperative that these occurrences are halted, resolved with urgency and justice. Collective agitation and steadfast resistance are much needed to bring the revolution in Pakistan once for all.’
Doubts Revealed
Pakistani Army -: The Pakistani Army is the land-based military force of Pakistan. They are responsible for defending the country and maintaining peace within its borders.
Pashtun -: Pashtuns are an ethnic group mainly found in Pakistan and Afghanistan. They have their own unique culture, language, and traditions.
Bannu -: Bannu is a city in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. It is known for its historical significance and diverse culture.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa -: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is a province in Pakistan. It is located in the northwestern part of the country and has a rich history and diverse population.
Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) -: The Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) is a social movement in Pakistan. It advocates for the rights of Pashtuns and seeks justice for those affected by violence and terrorism.
PTI -: PTI stands for Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, which is a political party in Pakistan. It was founded by Imran Khan and aims to bring justice and equality to the country.
Sher Afzal Khan Marwat -: Sher Afzal Khan Marwat is a senior vice president of PTI, a political party in Pakistan. He is a politician who speaks out on important issues affecting the country.
