PESHAWAR: Political authorities have started repatriating thousands of people of Ali Sherzai tribe to their native area in the Kurram tribal region.

Kurram political agent Riaz Mahsud said that 55,000 tribal people had been displaced in June 2010 following a military operation to cleanse the area of militants.

“So far 7,500 people have been sent to their area and the rest would be repatriated over the next couple of weeks,” he said. “We intend to complete the process by April 24.”

He said the returnees were being provided free transportation and food for six months, although the area had been cleared of militants. It was because of hectic efforts made by the Fata administration that Rs5 million had been arranged for the purpose, they added.

Displaced people have been holding protests for their repatriation without further delay, but donors and the federal government, despite pledges, have not provided funds to facilitate their return.