Tragic Incident at Pashtun Tahafuz Movement Gathering in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
On October 10, a peaceful gathering organized by the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) in Khyber district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, turned tragic when Pakistani security forces raided the event. The PTM had convened a national Jirga, known as the “Awami Adalat” or People’s Court, to discuss issues like violence, terrorism, and targeted killings.
During the raid, security forces used tear gas and ammunition, resulting in chaos and the loss of at least three lives, with many others injured. Eyewitnesses reported widespread panic as protesters fled the scene, and dozens of injured individuals were taken to nearby hospitals.
Manzoor Pashteen, the leader of PTM, condemned the attack, accusing the Pakistani government of fearing Pashtun unity. He shared on social media that similar incidents occurred in other districts, including South and North Waziristan, where more casualties were reported.
The PTM, established in 2018, advocates for the rights of Pashtuns in Pakistan, addressing issues like human rights violations and landmine threats. Despite roadblocks, people continued to gather, and Pashteen emphasized the movement’s commitment to peace.
He questioned the role of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government and criticized figures like General Asim Munir, Shahbaz Sharif, and Mohsin Naqvi for their involvement in the violence against Pashtuns.
Doubts Revealed
Pashtun Tahafuz Movement -: The Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) is a group that works to protect the rights of the Pashtun people, who live in areas like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in Pakistan. They focus on issues like violence and terrorism affecting their community.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa -: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is a province in Pakistan, located near the border with Afghanistan. It is home to many Pashtun people and has faced challenges like violence and terrorism.
Manzoor Pashteen -: Manzoor Pashteen is a leader of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement. He speaks out for the rights and safety of the Pashtun people and works to bring attention to their issues.
Pakistani security forces -: Pakistani security forces are the military and police groups in Pakistan responsible for maintaining law and order. In this incident, they raided the PTM gathering, leading to violence.
Pashtun unity -: Pashtun unity refers to the coming together of Pashtun people to support each other and work for their rights. The PTM aims to unite Pashtuns to address common issues they face.
