IT has been observed that after every act of sabotage where people are killed, the government repeats its assurances that it will take appropriate steps both to protect the masses and act strictly against the terrorists to foil the nefarious designs of militants in the future. The basic purpose of the war on terror is to kill Pakhtuns by Pakhtuns without any reason. Of all areas, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has suffered most seriously since 2002, and the lawlessness has made the people's lives miserable. Unlike the past, tourists cannot freely move to enjoy the scenic Swat valley in spring and summer. People are confused and wonder how long the situation will remain tense. Innocent people are killed in bazaars, inside shops, at places of worship and at funerals and public meetings. If terrorism is the destiny of the Pakhtuns then they have to face it and remain behind all other nations. The Pakhtuns are already very backward … as compared to … other communities in the country. …What can be the reason for keeping the Pakhtuns so backward, and does the lawlessness in the region have any end? In fact, Pakhtuns and [other] Muslims have been frequently targeted since 9/11 but nobody can say whether or not the terrorists have achieved their goal so far.

The people of Peshawar have suffered to the extent that they cannot afford such acts of sabotage any longer. People in this region are leading a miserable life under the prevailing conditions and are unable to get rid of the terrorists. It is not enough that government officials give reassurances … that the terrorists will not succeed again in carrying out such acts. The war on terror and the killing of Pakhtuns by Pakhtuns is a conspiracy and must stop immediately. The fire which has been burning the Pakhtuns should be doused and the government needs to take effective steps for the purpose. The recent suicide bombing at a funeral in Dir and a blast at a market in Nishtarabad, Peshawar prove once again that the terrorists are still active and strong. … — (Sept 21)

Selected and translated by Ali Hazrat Bacha