THE administration in the Federally-Administered Tribal Areas( Fata) is one of the legacies of the colonial rule. Owing to the absence of proper governance in the area, it has suffered decades of neglect, absence of infrastructure, a worst law and order situation and dismal condition of human rights.

There is also a consensus that the Frontier Crime Regulation is barbaric and the Fata people deserve constitutional protection. It’s welcome news that all stakeholders agree on reforming Fata. Also, the federal government representatives at various meetings with lawmakers from tribal regions have agreed on this.

However, the delay in the merger is causing distress among the tribal people. Although it is a known fact that some technical problems are a big hurdle in the merger, the government should speed up the process free the Fata people from difficulties.

Rana Intezar
Fata

Published in Dawn, December 17th, 2017