By: Our Correspondent
KOHAT: A protest sit-in staged by members of the Sunni Khel tribe on the main highway in the Sanda Basti area of Darra Adam Khel continued for a fifth consecutive day on Tuesday, with demonstrators urging the district administration to take immediate and effective action to address their concerns.
According to tribal elders, a longstanding dispute between the Sunni Khel and Zarghan Khel tribes has already been settled through a decision reached in accordance with Sharia. However, they alleged that despite the settlement, members of the Zarghan Khel tribe continue to maintain an armed checkpoint on the government highway, causing significant inconvenience to local residents.
The protesters said the presence of the checkpoint has disrupted daily life and created difficulties for schoolchildren, elderly citizens, women, and other commuters. They further claimed that the armed checkpoint has generated fear and psychological stress among residents, arguing that such a facility on a public highway poses serious concerns for public safety and freedom of movement.
The participants also alleged that the Kohat district administration has so far failed to remove the checkpoint, resulting in continued unrest and uncertainty in the area. They called on the district administration and relevant authorities to take immediate notice of the situation, ensure implementation of the Sharia-based settlement in accordance with the law, clear the public highway of all obstructions, and take effective measures to safeguard the lives and property of local residents.
The protesters vowed to continue their sit-in until their demands are accepted and a permanent resolution to the issue is achieved.
