THE tribal people are controlled under the black law known as the Frontier Crimes Regulation (FCR). The tribal people are administrated under Article 247 which deprives them of their rights which other Pakistani citizens are enjoying.

These are: no act of parliament shall apply to Fata unless the president so directs; neither the Supreme Court nor a high court shall exercise any jurisdiction in Fata.

They are deprived and kept away from: Article 9 — security of person, Article 10 — right to fair trial, Article 13 — protection against double punishment and self - incrimination, Article 14 — inviolability of dignity of man, and Article 25 — equality of citizens.

These articles are not for Fata because without the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court and high court the security and right to free trial has been omitted. Collective punishment under FCR is in violation of Articles 13, 14 and 25. There is no dignity of man.

How will we promote ourselves if we are deprived of our basic rights? Are we not citizens of Pakistan? Until when will we be deprived of our basic rights?

The rights and duties are interdependent. If rights are not available, the people will not fulfil their duties. This will lead our society towards more terrorism, militancy and extremism.

Allah Nawaz
Sikandro, Bajaur Agency