BAJAUR: The local terrorist elements in Bajaur district have conditionally agreed to vacate civilian areas but refused to completely leave the region.
The development came during the second round of peace talks held between the Bajaur Aman Jirga and terrorist leaders in Lowi Mamund tehsil. The 50-member jirga, led by Sahibzada Haroon Rashid, has been negotiating with militants in a bid to restore peace in the troubled region.
The terrorists had earlier requested a day to consult their leadership regarding the jirga’s demands. The jirga had urged them to either return to Afghanistan or relocate to remote mountainous areas if they wished to continue their activities, focusing on the fact that their presence in civilian zones posed a grave risk to local residents.
In this sense, Saturday’s meeting reportedly began around 3pm and continued late into the evening.
However, no major breakthrough was achieved, and the exact outcome remains unclear. In addition, as of 9:20pm, no official statement had been issued by the jirga leadership, although Mr. Haroon Rashid indicated to some officials that “positive news” may follow soon.
Meanwhile, in response to a potential escalation and anticipated displacement of civilians, several humanitarian organizations have proactively established relief camps in the region. These camps are located in relatively safer zones of Lowi Mamund and Khar tehsils.
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In addition, various philanthropists and well-off individuals from within Bajaur have also stepped forward to support the relief efforts, ensuring that basic needs are met for those affected by the potential anti-terror operation.
