PESHAWAR: The Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM) was outlawed in Pakistan due to actions judged detrimental to national security. As a result, the Marxist organization is not permitted to host elder gatherings or Jalsas.
PTM, which was established ten years ago, gave voice to the people living in the northwest, but some of its leaders were involved in violent episodes, such as attacks on security personnel. Manzoor Pashteen’s party also organized a number of protests against extrajudicial executions and enforced disappearances.
The party stated that a large number of activists were detained in advance of a scheduled jirga, days after they were outlawed nationwide. Tens of thousands of supporters were regularly organized by PTM for nonviolent demonstrations calling for the Pashtun population to have greater rights and protection.Authorities from KP are prohibited from attending PTM Jirga
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) provincial administration has prohibited its officials and workers from taking part in the next Pashtoon Qaumi Jirga, which is being organized by PTM.
The KP administration declared that any interaction with Pashtun would be considered unlawful and would result in legal action. In the Khyber district, Section 144 has been implemented, prohibiting meetings of more than five persons for a period of one month.
PTM activists began congregating against the law, reiterating their intention to carry out the jirga.
The government is adamantly opposed to the ban, claiming that the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM) is involved in anti-state operations and has ties to armed groups.
Several dozen put on Fourth Schedule
An offensive against the outlawed Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) has resulted in the addition of more than fifty KP residents to the Fourth Schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997.
These people are charged with endorsing the PTM, which has come under fire for actions that go beyond the authority of the state. Those suspected of terrorism are included in the Fourth Schedule, which places limitations on their travel and activities. Those identified include PTM head Manzoor Ahmed Pashteen and other South Waziristani nationals.
