DESPITE years of intermittent and bloody conflict in Kurram, the state has been unable to bring lasting peace to this sensitive tribal district. The arterial Thall-Parachinar road has been closed for nearly three weeks, while bouts of tribal-cum-sectarian violence have resulted in several deaths over the past few months. The latest violent episode occurred on Monday, when two Frontier Corps troops were martyred. Those familiar with the area say TTP terrorists were likely involved in the attack on the FC men. If this is confirmed, it would further complicate the situation in Kurram, adding a new layer of violence. A land dispute between two tribes is said to be the key reason behind frequent violent episodes. Yet in Kurram, sectarian and tribal differences often combine, creating an explosive mix. The presence of heavy weapons in the district in the hands of rival tribes ensures that even petty disputes metastasize into factional warfare. The state — both the KP government and the centre — has been conspicuous by its absence. While the issue is often raised in the KP Assembly, no lasting solutions have been implemented. A state-endorsed land commission exists, but it has failed to resolve the dispute in question. In the midst of violence, the local population suffers as routine life is disturbed, and people are cut off from the rest of the country.

Instead of abandoning Kurram, the state needs to take proactive steps to permanently resolve local disputes. This must include judicious resolution of the land dispute, as well as a thorough deweaponisation drive. Tribal elders and ulema should play a greater role in promoting peaceful dispute resolution. Meanwhile, the government must take firm steps to root out terrorist groups from the area. Kurram borders Afghanistan, and malign actors should not be allowed to exploit local tribal and communal differences. Kurram’s people need the state to enforce its writ so that they can live in peace.

Published in Dawn, October 31st, 2024