The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) provincial cabinet approved a state of emergency in the districts of Kurram and Khyber due to the prevailing security situation.

In the 19th cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur, measures were also approved to seize properties of individuals involved in money laundering and terror financing and to establish a new girls cadet college in Dera Ismail Khan.

Addressing the cabinet, CM Gandapur claimed that the conflict in Kurram was not a case of terrorism but a clash between two groups. He expressed concern over the spread of sectarian hatred, accusing certain elements of fabricating false narratives to escalate tensions.

"The people of the area want peace, but some elements are trying to spoil the situation through sectarian hatred," he remarked, adding that these elements are creating false narratives to distort the issue.

Govt's peace efforts

The CM revealed that the government is making every effort to find a peaceful resolution of the issues through talks and jirgas, as several jirgas have been held at different levels for a sustainable solution to the Kurram problem.

He also reiterated that there is no justification for the rampant illegal heavy weaponry in the region. He clarified that the provincial government does not allow armed groups to retain such weapons and is committed to dismantling illegal armed checkposts by February 1.

"The government has no policy to allow any armed group to possess illegal heavy weapons," the CM stressed.

Additionally, the government has decided to establish a special police force comprising 399 personnel to secure the Parachinar Road, a critical lifeline for the region. Temporary security checkposts will be established initially, followed by permanent installations. "The road will be opened after an agreement is reached between the two sides," the meeting was briefed.

The cabinet was briefed that about 10 tonnes of medicines have been airlifted by helicopters to address shortages in the affected areas. Over the past two days, 220 residents were also provided transport through government helicopters to ensure their safety.

Military operations

While addressing speculations, Chief Minister Gandapur categorically stated that no decision has been made regarding military operations in Tirah and Janikhel. He assured that the government would prioritize peaceful means to resolve disputes and uphold its responsibility to safeguard the lives and properties of the people.