In a firm response to escalating tensions surrounding the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM), the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has reiterated its commitment to enforce a ban on the activities of the recently proscribed group. This announcement follows the federal government’s declaration of the PTM as a prohibited organisation under the Anti-Terrorism Act.
Barrister Mohammad Ali Saif, the advisor to the KP Chief Minister on Information, conveyed the provincial government’s stance during a video statement. He noted that the federal government had officially issued a notification under the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), citing the PTM’s involvement in activities deemed detrimental to the state and the Constitution. “The PTM cannot be permitted to hold political gatherings or rallies in our province,” Saif emphasised, reinforcing the government’s position on maintaining public order.
The statement from Saif came just hours after Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi warned that those found aiding the PTM would face stringent repercussions. “We will deal with any facilitators of this banned organisation with an iron fist,” Naqvi declared, setting a resolute tone for law enforcement efforts across the region.
Concerns escalated as the PTM attempted to organise a gathering in Khyber district, prompting the authorities to impose Section 144 to prevent any unlawful assemblies. Despite the ban, clashes erupted yesterday between police and PTM supporters during their attempted public assembly, resulting in several confrontations. Saif condemned these incidents, affirming the provincial government’s determination to maintain law and order amidst such provocations.
In light of these events, KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has called an emergency meeting with elected district representatives, instructing them to engage with tribal elders and local stakeholders in a bid to resolve tensions peacefully. “The provincial government is dedicated to doing everything within its power to ensure the safety of all residents,” Saif added, reiterating the administration’s responsibility to protect its citizens.
The federal government’s decision to ban the PTM, effective from October 6, was based on concerns that the organisation was engaging in activities harmful to national peace and security. “The federal government has reason to believe that the PTM’s activities are prejudicial to the country’s stability, which necessitated the organisation’s designation as a proscribed entity,” stated the notification issued by the Ministry of Interior.
The imposition of the ban falls under Section 11B of the Anti-Terrorism Act 1997, reflecting the government’s commitment to combating threats to the state. As the situation develops, the KP government remains vigilant in its efforts to prevent any resurgence of PTM activities and uphold the rule of law within the province.
With the PTM now facing significant legal and operational challenges, the future of the movement remains uncertain, as both provincial and federal authorities seek to address the underlying issues through lawful and peaceful means.
