DLP Report
PESHAWAR
The three-day Bacha Khan Peace Fair, organized by the Pakhtun Students Federation (PSF) at the University of Agriculture in Peshawar, was inaugurated by Awami National Party (ANP) Provincial President Mian Iftikhar Hussain. The fair features a variety of stalls showcasing books, traditional food, and cultural items, and will continue until December 11.
During the opening ceremony, Mian Iftikhar Hussain voiced strong criticism of the treatment of Pakhtuns in Punjab and Islamabad, condemning the attitude as unjust and discriminatory.
He emphasized that Pakhtuns’ contributions in resisting British colonialism were vital to the creation of Pakistan and argued that their treatment as second-class citizens in the current political climate is unacceptable.
He also criticized the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leadership, particularly for abandoning Pakhtun workers during times of crisis, citing the martyrdom of workers and security personnel during protests.
Hussain accused PTI of exploiting Pakhtuns for political gain under the guise of bravery and honor, while failing to stand by them when needed.
The ANP leader further discussed the challenges faced by Pakhtuns due to terrorism, claiming that international forces and their facilitators profit from the bloodshed of Pakhtuns.
He also highlighted the role of the Punjabi Taliban in perpetuating terrorism in Pakistan and called for the government to take decisive action against banned organizations in Punjab.
Hussain touched on the negative impact of terrorism on Pakhtun businesses and livelihoods, noting that many have been forced to migrate due to the insecurity in their homeland.
He also addressed the ongoing sectarian violence in Karam, cautioning that efforts to stir division could have dire consequences, including displacing local populations.
The ANP leader blamed the provincial government for its inability to combat terrorism effectively and criticized the weakening of the police force.
He argued that unity and cooperation were essential to confronting the challenges ahead, emphasizing the lessons of non-violence taught by Bacha Khan, the revered Pakhtun leader, who promoted peaceful resistance to injustice.
The ceremony was attended by a large number of students and PSF leaders, who all reiterated their commitment to upholding the values of peace, unity, and justice as championed by Bacha Khan.
