SWAT: The people of Swat took to the streets in large numbers, rejecting the proposed Azm-i-Istehkam military operation and made it clear that the valley was completely peaceful and there was no need to launch an operation here.

Rallies were held in Kabal and Khwazakhela tehsils organised by Swat Olasi Pasoon (Swat public uprising).

Holding white flags inscribed with slogans for peace, the Kabal rally started from Khwazakhela Chowk and ended at Matta Chowk, while another rally started from Kabal Chowk and ended at Aligrama.

The participants chanted slogans rejecting terrorism, militancy, and extremism in Swat. The rallies resonated with the slogans of peace.

The participants said that the people of Swat had suffered from 2007 to 2009, first from the Taliban insurgency and then from the military operation, which resulted in mass displacements.

They said people suffered extremely difficult and harsh times due to curfews, search operations and checkposts. Despite this, they said the people extended relentless sacrifices for the sake of Pakistan.

The protesters said hundreds of innocent people lost their lives in bomb blasts, targeted killing and suicide attacks. They said people were also ‘disgraced’ at checkposts and during search operations. They said they could not afford to become refugees once more.

The protesters vowed not to allow any terrorist or Taliban militant in Swat and said if they found any such elements they would stand united and eliminate them themselves.

They said that they wouldn’t accept any military operation on their soil.

The protesters warned that if the government tried to launch a military operation, all the people of Swat would be on the roads against it.

Published in Dawn, July 6th, 2024