I WOULD like to draw the attention of those at the helms of affairs in this country towards the deteriorating law and order situation in the last peaceful resort of the NWFP, which is Chitral district.

There is unrest among traders, transporters and the general public against the alleged high-handedness of paramilitary forces, Chitral scouts, at Mirkhani Checkpost. It was three weeks back that the paramilitary forces confiscated non-custom-paid vehicles and consignment of ghee and cooking oil. They instigated the custom officials to register cases against the drivers and owners of vehicles and created unrest in the district. According to routine practice, such vehicles are registered with police stations, and transportation of edible oil from Afghanistan into Chitral is allowed due to the closure of Lowari Pass.

Moreover, the non-custom-paid vehicles are regulated in Malakand division under special laws. The paramilitary forces have no authority to intervene in such matters. Drivers' union, traders' associations and the local elite have blamed the command and staff of Chitral Scouts for creating law and order situation in the last peaceful resort of the NWFP.

It is time an inquiry was initiated into the incident.

BASHIR HUSSAIN AZAD

Shahi Bazaar, Chitral