THE 2014 military campaign against Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) terrorists in North Waziristan was, indeed, a significant success story, but it caused considerable hardship to the region’s inhabitants. The negative impact continues to reverberate a decade later, with locals scattered across various parts of the country, enduring difficult circumstances.

Notably, Shawwal, a subdivision of North Waziristan, remains inaccessible to this day, highlighting the operation’s lasting consequences on the community’s displacement and wellbeing. The conflict has resulted in widespread devastation, leaving both residential structures and commercial establishments in ruins.

Shawwal tehsil was particularly known for its prized chilgoza (pine nuts), a highly valuable commodity fetching premium prices in the market. This rare delicacy had been a crucial source of substantial income for the local community, generating millions of rupees in revenue.

However, for the last decade, residents have been cut off from this vital economic resource, having a significant impact on their traditional livelihood and financial stability.

The displaced residents of Shawwal continue to face official neglect, with no governmental assistance or relief packages reaching them. The situation is particularly bleak for the younger generation because no concrete educational framework has been worked out to support these displaced children. A significantly large number of young children remain displaced, having to live far away from their ancestral homes without due access to basic educational facilities.

Despite frequent meetings of the tribal councils, commonly known as jirgas, with relevant government officials and security forces, no meaningful resolution has emerged so far. The authorities keep announcing deadlines for the return of the local residents, but then announce delays with new excuses every time the date comes closer, creating a cycle of unfulfilled promises and continued displacement.

The authorities must prioritise swift repatriation of the displaced families and establish lasting peace in the region. If an immediate return is not feasible, they should at least provide comprehensive relief packages, and ensure quality educational opportunities for the affected children.

Samad Khan Wazir
Peshawar

Published in Dawn, November 16th, 2024