DI KHAN:
Condemning government statements claiming a plentiful supply of essential goods as “misleading”, educational institutions in the volatile tribal district of Kurram have decided to close from 20th December (today).
They have also warned of launching a protest movement. “The government is trying to add to the people’s misery instead of protecting their lives and property. It seems intent on depriving people of food and medical care,” alleges Marjan Ali, the head of one of the education institutes.
She, Zahid Hussain, and other heads of educational institutions held a press conference, stating that the government has failed to ensure safety and provide necessities like food and medicine. They add that petrol has also run out in the district. “Therefore, all educational institutions will remain closed indefinitely in protest.
Meanwhile, social activist Mir Afzal Khan, accompanied by members of the Pak Youth Movement, condemned provincial ministers Hisham Khan and Barrister Saif for their “misleading statements” about the deaths of children and road closures.
He highlighted that due to a lack of medicines in hospitals and medical stores, children are dying, while officials issue false statements instead of addressing the crisis. He warned of sit-ins if the issue is not resolved immediately.
It should be noted that roads and the Pak-Afghan border have been closed since November 21 due to an attack on a convoy and subsequent clashes between tribes in Kurram district. Severe shortages of food and daily essentials have gripped Parachinar and nearby areas.
Additionally, gas supplies have also been exhausted amidst the harsh cold, causing immense suffering.
The medical superintendent of the hospital, Dr Mir Hassan Jan, confirmed that 54 individuals, including 29 children, have died due to the unavailability of treatment. Shops in Parachinar are empty, and all hotels, restaurants, and bakeries have shut down, leaving citizens in dire straits,”
National Assembly member Hamid Hussain expressed grave concern over the rising deaths of patients, including children, due to lack of medical care. He questioned the silence over the killings on the main road and the continued closure of routes for 70 days, describing it as a failure of responsible authorities. He warned if the roads are not reopened and secured immediately, a protest movement will be launched.
Efforts for peace in Kurram through a grand jirga have reached a stalemate, despite agreement on most points, insiders say.
News published in the Express Tribune on 20th December 2024
