In a powerful act of defiance, tribal leader Sardar Meer Badshah Qaisrani led a grand jirga in Taunsa, rallying communities to resist the growing influence of the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Hundreds of tribesmen vowed to form local vigilance committees and defend their land “by hook or by crook” against Taliban infiltration, extortion, and violence.
Security officials confirm a spike in TTP-linked attacks in the region, with over 30 incidents reported in recent months. Analysts warn that the TTP’s so-called “shadow provinces” in North and South Punjab are gaining traction, with support from local splinter groups and links to other banned outfits like Lashkar-e-Jhangvi.
Frustrated by government inaction, residents say they’re ready to sell livestock to arm themselves, despite warnings from experts like Syed Akhtar Ali Shah, who cautions that civilian militias could backfire. Yet for locals facing kidnappings, threats, and forced resignations, resistance seems like the only option left. The call is clear: Taliban militancy must be crushed before it buries another region in chaos.
