Years after the war on terror devastated the tribal districts, thousands of families, the terror victims, in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remain without compensation or rehabilitation. Meanwhile, the provincial government’s recent rejection of federally provided bulletproof vehicles for KP police؛ who are at the forefront of counter-terrorism efforts، has sparked fierce criticism from opposition and civil society alike.
Residents of Mohmand district continue to live in the ruins of their homes destroyed during military operations, while funds worth Rs600 to Rs700 billion allocated for anti-terrorism efforts remain unaccounted for.
A local resident from Tehsil Baizai, Mohmand, speaking on behalf of affected families, said:
“Our homes were destroyed in the war on terror. We stood shoulder to shoulder with the Pakistan Army, but till today, we have not received any compensation. We ask the government to help rebuild our homes so we can return to normal life.”
At the same time, Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has rejected bulletproof vehicles sent by the federal government to protect KP police, labeling them “substandard and outdated.” The federal government, however, firmly denies these claims and insists that the vehicles meet operational standards vital to frontline security forces.
Opposition leaders, including PML-N’s Talal Chaudhry, have challenged the KP government to explain the utilisation of the massive federal anti-terrorism funds, demand transparency in their spending, and question the CM to return his own bulletproof vehicle if he doubts the provided equipment.
Critics argue that the rejection of essential security resources and delayed compensation is driven by political motives aimed at appeasing jailed PTI leadership, placing party interests above the lives of police personnel and displaced citizens.
As KP continues to face evolving security challenges, the provincial government’s failure to protect its frontline forces and support war-affected communities raises urgent questions about governance, accountability, and priorities.
