PESHAWAR: The displaced families of Kurram Agency have demanded a judicial inquiry into the funds allocated for their rehabilitation so that the tribal elders involved in misappropriation of the public money could be awarded punishment.

Speaking at a press conference at Peshawar Press Club on Thursday, Haji Rohullah said that thousands of people were displaced some 10 years ago, but they were still living in different parts of the country because the funds meant for their rehabilitation were embezzled.

Accompanied by a group of elders, he said that the funds allocated for reconstruction of the houses and shops were also insufficient and urged the federal government to increase the amount. He said that the government should take appropriate steps for restoration of peace in the region so that the displaced families could return to their localities.

Mr Rohullah alleged that some elders in connivance with political administration and Fata Secretariat had embezzled the funds meant for rehabilitation of the poor people. He said that some of the elders, who had managed to get the funds, were not representing all the affected people.

He urged the federal government to conduct a fresh survey to ascertain the losses, real affected people and to take action against all those involved in corruption.

Published in Dawn, April 20th, 2018