KHAR, Dec 12: Speakers at a seminar held here in connection with the International Human Rights Day demanded of the federal government to announce schedule for holding local bodies’ elections in the tribal areas. They noted that local government system was not only vital for providing basic and modern facilities to the tribal people but also very important for monitoring development activities.

All Bajaur Political Parties Alliance organised the seminar, where leaders of various political and religious parties, tribal elders and social activists were in attendance.

The speakers highlighted that Frontier Crimes Regulation, absence of fundamental rights and a proper social justice system were the main hurdles in the development of Fata.

They said the rulers were not ready to extend fundamental rights to the people of Fata for ensuring sustainable development and progress of the region.

“The tribesmen are citizens of Pakistan but the government is keeping them deprived of their fundamental rights,” said political leaders.

They demanded of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to provide them their fundamental rights.

Speaking on the occasion, PML-N MNA from Bajaur Shahabuddin Khan said the federal government was committed to extending fundamental rights to Fata.

TOURNAMENT CONCLUDES: The month long Bajaur Peace Cricket Tournament concluded here the other day. The tournament was organised by the Pak army.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Army’s Sector Commander North Brig Ghulam Haider said that sports were the best tools for promotion of harmony and tolerance among tribesmen.

The concluding ceremony was attended by tribal elders, members of local peace committees, Bajaur agency political agent and senior officials of the administration and security forces.

Brig Haider said sports activities were necessary for peace, prosperity and sustainable development of the agency, adding the security forces were taking keen interest in promotion of sports activities in the region especially in the militancy affected areas.

Bajaur Agency political agent Syed Abdul Jabar Shah said his administration had allocated huge funds for providing modern sports facilities in the region.

The army official distributed prizes and trophies among the best performers.