HORDES of Afghanistan-based terrorists have entered the erstwhile federally-administered tribal areas (Fata) and southern districts of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province, and have unleashed a wave of terror that has led to civilian deaths and destruction of property in addition to the martyrdom of policemen and soldiers on a consistent basis.

Unlike in the past, the terrorists today attack police and army posts in groups of 12-15 men, and use military-grade sophisticated arsenal. The intention is not just to kill and destroy, but to ‘capture’ such posts. These nefarious activities are not only creating insecurity among the locals, but are also destabilising the already weak national economy. The only course left for the government to confront the dismal situation is to use army troops in large numbers to stop the scourge.

The irony is that a lot of people, led by KP politicisns, have been holding protest demonstrations against any military action against the terrorists. One fails to understand what the logic is behind such protests. Should the situation be allowed to continue? Should the terrorists be given a free hand to do what they want?

Sayed G.B. Shah Bokhari
Peshawar

Published in Dawn, July 26th, 2024