Peshawar (Web Desk): A high-level meeting of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Apex Committee was held on Friday to discuss the deteriorating law and order situation in the Kurram district.
The forum, chaired by Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, saw the participation of Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, the Peshawar Corps Commander, the provincial chief secretary, the inspector general, and other important cabinet members.
The discussions centered on the escalating unrest in the region, with officials reviewing the province's ongoing peace initiatives and the progress of the grand jirga aimed at fostering local reconciliation.
One of the key decisions emerging from the meeting was the dismantling of all bunkers in Kurram, which authorities hope will help restore order and prevent further violence.
The participants of the meeting stressed that disarmament was crucial for the long-term peace of the district, alongside efforts to remove militant infrastructure, such as bunkers, which have contributed to instability.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi reaffirmed the federal government's commitment to supporting KP in its efforts to restore peace in Kurram. He acknowledged the severity of the situation and emphasized that securing the region remained a top priority.
The interior minister also pledged to strengthen the capacity of local law enforcement agencies to handle the security challenges more effectively.
A key element of the discussions was the importance of engaging with the local population to promote trust and cooperation.
The committee highlighted the need for dialogue with residents, especially to facilitate the return of weapons and mitigate the violence that has plagued the district in recent weeks.
This approach, according to officials, is crucial for both short-term de-escalation and long-term peacebuilding.
The committee also took a moment to honour the security personnel who had laid down their lives in the fight against terrorism in the region.
Ahead of the apex committee meeting, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur on Friday and discussed ways to establish peace in Kurram. They also highlighted the need for a long-term peace strategy that includes consultations with all relevant stakeholders.
Both Naqvi and Gandapur expressed deep respect for the sacrifices made by these brave individuals, acknowledging their role in the ongoing struggle to protect the people of Kurram.
It is pertinent to mention that Kurram district has been facing a series of violent clashes over the past few weeks, with the death toll reaching at least 130, while many more have been injured or displaced. The situation has sparked growing concern among local and national authorities alike.