Magazine 18th Edition Archives - Voice of KP English

Empowering the youth by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government

May 15, 2025

by Webdesk

ZEESHAN HOTI Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), a province in Pakistan's northwestern region, is home to a vibrant, youthful population eager to make their mark on the world. Recognizing the importance of investing in the future of its youth, KP's provin ...

Local Bodies at breaking point: KP representatives protest budget & political discrimination

May 15, 2025

by Webdesk

LAILA SADAF Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's (KP) local bodies' representatives, including mayors, chairmen, and councilors, have been protesting for the last three years against the Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf (PTI) led provincial government. However, the previous ...

Pitfalls in the educational system of KP & mitigation measures using AI

May 15, 2025

by ENGR S.Khan

ENGR S. KHAN The education system in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) faces deep-rooted challenges that hinder its ability to deliver quality education. While efforts have been made to improve literacy rates and infrastructure, significant gaps remain. Issue ...

Why were amendments in Peca Law necessary?

May 15, 2025

by Webdesk

Hassan SAJID The Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) was introduced in 2016 as Pakistan's primary law to regulate digital spaces and address cybercrimes. While it aimed to improve online security and protect individuals from digital abuse, ...

Pakistan’s Social Media Story: Turning posts into progress

May 15, 2025

by Webdesk

Pakistan's Social Media Story: Turning posts into progress SALMAN AHMAD In the current tech-driven world, social media has become a powerful tool that influences millions of lives daily–– both positively and adversely. For Pakistan, especially fo ...

SHAHZAD MASOOD ROOMI Kurram District, located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, is a volatile region marked by recurring sectarian violence between its Shia and Sunni Muslim communities. Unlike most of Pakistan, where Sunnis form the overwhelming majority, Kurram has a significant Shia population—estimated at around 42%—with the Turi tribe being predominantly Shia and the Bangash tribe divided between both sects. This demographic mix, combined with historical tensions, land disputes, and external influences, fuels ongoing conflict. Although the violence in Kurram is often portrayed as sectarian unrest, it is not purely sectarian in origin. Many clashes stem from underlying issues such as land ownership disputes, which escalate into sectarian violence due to tribal and religious affiliations. This complex law-and-order situation has turned Kurram into a hotbed for militant groups such as Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Islamic State-Khorasan (ISKP), and Lashkar-e-Jhangvi, all of which have targeted Shia communities after labeling them apostates. Meanwhile, the Sunni community has pointed to the Zainebiyoun Brigade—a Shia militia with ties to Iran—as a contributor to the violence. The district's proximity to Afghanistan adds another layer of complexity, as cross-border militancy and refugee influxes further inflame local rivalries. Violence in Kurram has intensified over the past two years. Escalation of Violence in 2023-2025 In July 2023, a land dispute between Shia and Sunni tribes in Upper Kurram led to violent confrontations, resulting in at least 13 deaths and 90 injuries over several days. Despite a ceasefire, tensions persisted, with road blockages causing shortages of food, fuel, and medicine. Similarly, on October 12, 2024, a Sunni convoy under paramilitary escort was ambushed in Kurram, killing 16 people, including women and children. This incident highlighted the ongoing cycle of retaliatory attacks between sectarian groups. Another major wave of violence struck the district from November 21-23, 2024, when gunmen attacked two Shia convoys traveling from Parachinar to Peshawar, killing 52 people, including women and children. Although no group claimed responsibility, the attack triggered retaliatory assaults by Shia groups on Sunni areas such as Bagan village, where markets and homes were torched. Over three days, the death toll exceeded 80, with more than 200 people killed in Kurram since July 2024 alone. A seven-day ceasefire was brokered on November 24, but sporadic violence continued. On January 17, 2025, unidentified gunmen ambushed and torched aid trucks in Kurram, killing two security personnel and five drivers. This attack underscored the persistent insecurity despite repeated peace efforts. State Response: Inconsistent and Ineffective State's response to the Kurram crisis has been inconsistent, relying heavily on short-term measures while placing the burden of maintaining order primarily on the Pakistan Army. Governance failures have exacerbated the situation, contributing to the country's overall deteriorating law and order. Mediation Efforts: The government has repeatedly dispatched delegations, including provincial officials and tribal jirgas (councils), to broker truces. For instance, after the November 2024 violence, a high-level team—including KPK's Chief Secretary and Inspector General of Police—negotiated a ceasefire. However, these agreements, like the 10-day truce in late November 2024, frequently collapse due to intermittent clashes. Security Deployment: Police and paramilitary units have been deployed to enforce peace and escort convoys. Following the January 2025 attack, a large-scale operation targeting militants was launched in Kurram, marking the first significant military action in the district in recent years. However, militants and sectarian fighters often vacate conflict zones during operations, only to return once military campaigns conclude. Infrastructure and Aid: Authorities have intermittently restored access to blocked roads, such police presence, and the slow establishment of a as the Thal-Parachinar highway, and delivered humanitarian aid. For instance, in January 2025, aid convoys transported food and medicine to affected areas. Policy Commitments: After the 2018 merger of tribal areas into KPK, the government pledged to integrate these regions by ensuring security and development. However, implementation has lagged significantly. Current Situation and Challenges Despite these efforts, the situation in Kurram remains dire. Ceasefires offer only temporary relief, while the root causes of violence remain unaddressed. The death toll—exceeding 200 since July 2024—indicates a worsening security situation. Road closures persist, exacerbating humanitarian crises, with reports of shortages continuing into March 2025. The January 2025 security operation suggests a shift toward a more proactive approach, but its long-term effectiveness remains uncertain. Weak governance, a limited justice system following the FATA merger continue to hinder lasting stability. Bunker Destruction: Authorities have demolished 979 bunkers in Kurram over the past two months as part of the Kohat peace agreement signed on January 1, 2025. These fortifications, previously held by both conflicting sides, were removed entirely, marking a key step towards the restoration of peace. The demolition, confirmed to be 100% complete, aligns with broader peace efforts that include disarmament and deployment of a special force for regional security. Road Protection: Road protection in the Kurram District remains a significant concern due to ongoing security challenges. Several measures by security forces and local administration have been taken to enhance security. These include the deployment of a special police force dedicated to securing the Parachinar Road and the establishment of 120 security posts along the main highway in the district. Way Forward De-weaponization: Since the area is no longer part of FATA after the merger, de-weaponization targeting illegal arms among sectarian groups and tribal militias is essential for peace. Resolve Land Disputes: Establish a robust land commission to settle disputes in areas like Boshera and Balishkhel, which frequently trigger violence. The 2021 initiative must be enforced with sustained follow-through. Strengthen Governance: Fully integrate Kurram into KPK administrative and legal framework, replacing tribal customs with a functional justice system to deter violence and ensure accountability. Disarmament campaigns are essential to address the proliferation of heavy weapons. Promote Economic Development: Invest in infrastructure, education, and healthcare to reduce marginalization—a key driver of unrest. The Accelerated Implementation Program funds must be effectively utilized. Foster Community Reconciliation: Encourage dialogue between Shia and Sunni leaders to address longstanding grievances, including the displacement of Sunnis from the 2007 clashes, and focus on trust-building rather than temporary truces. Enhance Border Security: Strengthen control along the Afghan border to curb militant infiltration and arms smuggling. Despite fencing efforts, terrorists continue to exploit natural corridors such as riverbeds and water streams. Without addressing these structural issues, Kurram's cycle of violence will persist, undermining state authority and human security. The KPK government must establish strong provincial institutions to address local challenges while proactively engaging sectarian groups to counter misunderstandings and disinformation in real-time. This is undoubtedly a difficult task, but it is essential. Military action alone cannot compensate for governance failures—this shortcoming must be addressed not only in Kurram but across the country.

Kurram sectarian violence & Government response!

May 15, 2025

by Shahzad Masood Rumi

SHAHZAD MASOOD ROOMI Kurram District, located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, is a volatile region marked by recurring sectarian violence between its Shia and Sunni Muslim communities. Unlike most of Paki ...

The Jirga’s vision for a United and secure Pakistan

May 15, 2025

by Webdesk

DR. SAHIBZADA MUHAMMAD USMAN In a significant stride toward addressing Pakistan's complex socio-political and security challenges, a consultative Jirga convened under the leadership of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Chief Minister has issued a comprehensive j ...

Brigadier Mustafa Kamal Burki Shaheed Pak Army Officer

May 14, 2025

by Webdesk

Brigadier Mustafa Kamal Burki Shaheed Pak Army Officer Brigadier Mustafa Kamal Burki, born in Kaniguram, South Waziristan, was a fearless warrior of the Pakistan Army, embodying the unwavering spirit of those born to defend their homeland. His mart ...

Gul Pari Open Lacrosse Championship Japan

May 14, 2025

by Webdesk

Gul Pari Open Lacrosse Championship Japan Gul Pari, a dedicated athlete from Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, has made history in Pakistan's sports scene by securing her 16th gold medal at the Open Lacrosse Championship in Okinawa, Japan, held from Febru ...

Saira Amin Squadron Leader Pakistan Air Force

May 14, 2025

by Webdesk

Saira Amin Squadron Leader Pakistan Air Force When Squadron Leader Saira Amin was awarded the Sword of Honor on September 22, 2006, she not only made history but also proved that Pakistani women can achieve anything when given the opportunity. ...

Voice of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Posts in category: Magazine 18th Edition

Empowering the youth by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government

Local Bodies at breaking point: KP representatives protest budget & political discrimination

Pitfalls in the educational system of KP & mitigation measures using AI

Why were amendments in Peca Law necessary?

Pakistan’s Social Media Story: Turning posts into progress

Kurram sectarian violence & Government response!

The Jirga’s vision for a United and secure Pakistan

Brigadier Mustafa Kamal Burki Shaheed Pak Army Officer

Gul Pari Open Lacrosse Championship Japan

Saira Amin Squadron Leader Pakistan Air Force

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