SWABI: The problems of the tobacco growers were discussed at a meeting with Swabi deputy commissioner in the wake of the recent incident wherein a farmer set on fire bales of tobacco crop as a mark of protest.

Presided over by deputy commissioner Tariqullah, members ofSwabi Action Committee, farmers, representatives of companies and officials of the Pakistan Tobacco Board (PTB) attended the meeting.

The meeting was informed that more farmers had decided to burn their crop in protest against the alleged exploitative policies of the companies.

When contacted, officials told Dawn that the torching tobacco outside the Swabi Press Club had ‘shaken’ the district administration, tobacco purchasing companies, Pakistan Tobacco Board, small cigarette manufacturers and tobacco businessmen community because their ‘tactics’ had forced the farmers to take this extreme step.

Officials said that discussion was held on the purchase and sale of tobacco, fixed prices and other related issues and officials of the companies were told that they should buy crop from the farmers while the representatives of companies also explained their position.

Officials of the companies said that steps were taken to resolve the issues through mutual consultation, arguing they had bought a huge quantity of surplus tobacco last year. However, they maintained that they would purchase the announced quota.

Published in Dawn, August 12th, 2026