SHANGLA: A large number of residents, including youth, political activists and elders, blocked the Bisham-Swat Road in Alpuri on Saturday to protest the transfer of the assistant commissioner.

The protest, organised by local youth groups, and led by Mohammad Idress took place at the Alpuri Chowk.

Shouting slogans against the provincial government, the participants walked through Alpuri Bazaar carrying banners inscribed with the demand of cancelling the transfer orders of the official.

Assistant commissioner Mohammad Hamid Saddiqui, who had been serving in the region for several years, was transferred to Chakesar two months ago.

The protesters described the transfer orders as an abrupt and unfair decision by the provincial government, and alleged that he was transferred on the whims of political leaders as they were not happy over his bold actions against corrupt people.

They claimed that the outgoing AC had been deeply involved in improving local governance, resolving disputes, and taking stern actions against the law violators in the area, especially crackdown on traders involved in artificial price hike.

“Under his leadership, the region saw significant improvements in infrastructure, education, and healthcare,” said Mohammad Idress, a local resident. “We fear that this transfer will set back the progress that has been made, and it’s unfair to change leadership without any prior consultation with the community.”

Sher Ali Yousafzai, another resident, urged the government to reconsider its decision and prioritise the development of the region.

“It’s important for the provincial government to consider the impact of such decisions on the local population,” Yousafzai said. “The assistant commissioner has earned the trust and respect of the people here. A sudden transfer without understanding the ground realities can lead to administrative disruptions.”

Hamid Saddiqui was known for his prompt actions, respecting elderly and resolving issues and initiating impactful public interest projects in the district.

The protesters said they would come again on roads from Monday if the assistant commissioner’s transfer was not cancelled. The AC Alpuri transfer has also created an outrage on social media with people accusing the PML-N and PTI local leaders of being behind the move.

PML-N federal minister for Kashmir and GB affairs Amir Muqam, KP Assembly Opposition Leader Ibadullah Khan, former minister Shaukat Yousafzai and MPA Abdul Munim refuted the allegations.

However, the political leaders, in their separate statements, accused each other of being instrumental in the AC’s transfer.

Published in Dawn, March 23rd, 2025