Strike Against Rising Violence In Bannu Called Off After Assurances From Authorities

(MENAFN- Tribal News Network) A complete shutter-down strike and protest sit-in were held in Bannu on Monday against the worsening law and order situation, increasing incidents of terrorism, and road closures. The protest ended after successful negotiations with the district administration.

Following the talks, the administration accepted key demands of the protesters and assured that roads would be reopened in phases.

In the first phase, roads around the city will be restored, while in the second phase, Juma Khan Road, Kot Bararah, and Amandi roads will be reopened. Authorities also assured implementation of other demands.

Protesters said the law and order situation in the district has become extremely alarming, with incidents such as kidnappings for ransom, target killings, and explosions becoming routine.

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They demanded an end to the“good and bad” policy and called for ensuring the protection of citizens' lives and property.

The demonstrators also said their demands had already been presented before the Apex Committee and approved, but were not being implemented. They expressed serious concerns over the arrest of Qaumi Jirga leader Abdul Samad Khan and demanded his immediate release.

During the strike, business centres, markets, transport terminals, and private educational institutions across the city remained completely closed, severely disrupting daily life.

Thousands of people from the city and surrounding areas gathered in rallies, carrying white flags, and reached the protest site near Police Lines at Peace Chowk on Miranshah Road, chanting slogans in support of their demands.

Elders warned that if their demands were not met, the scope of the protest would be expanded. However, after successful negotiations, they announced the end of the sit-in.

Prominent political and social figures, including former senators Baz Muhammad Khan and Professor Muhammad Ibrahim Khan, Dr Pir Sahib Zaman, MNA Maulana Syed Naseem Ali Shah, MPA Pakhtun Yar Khan, former provincial minister Malik Shah Muhammad Khan, and former mayor Irfan Durrani, participated in and addressed the protest.

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