SWAT: The sub-divisional magistrate, Babuzai, on Monday imposed Section 145 of Criminal Procedure Code on the disputed main gate of the Saidu Sharif Royal Palace, following reports of a possible breach of peace between the parties to the dispute.

An official order said Saidu Sharif police station, through the district public prosecutor, reported that a dispute had arisen between the royal family of the former Swat state and the family of provincial minister Fazal Hakim Khan over access to the palace gate. Police warned that the situation posed a threat to public order.

On reviewing the case, the magistrate noted that both parties had alternative gates to their residences, as confirmed in a site plan submitted by the police. Summons was issued to both sides on Sept 24 and 25, but neither party appeared before the court.

“In order to maintain peace, Section 145 of CrPC is hereby imposed on the main gate, and both parties are directed to use alternative gates to their residences,” the order stated.

SHO Saidu Sharif has been instructed to enforce the order, deploy adequate police personnel, and prevent any untoward incident until a civil court delivers a ruling or the dispute is otherwise resolved.

The case involves Arshad Ali, the brother-in-law of minister Fazal Hakim; Afarin Khan, the minister’s brother; and Ms Bakht Zeba, widow of the former Wali of Swat, on one side, and Ms Zebunisa Jilani, granddaughter of the former ruler of Swat state, on the other.

The contested property, part of the historically significant royal palace, has been a source of contention for around two months. Local officials fear an escalation could disturb peace in the district, which has previously seen disputes over land and property ownership.

Published in Dawn, September 30th, 2025