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Fazlur Rehman Slams Centre Over Minerals, Warns of Provincial Rights Erosion
JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman warns against attempts to seize provincial mineral resources, says no compromise on provincial powers. Announces protests and marches on key national issues.
ND
by News Desk
2025-04-16
Fazlur Rehman Slams Centre Over Minerals, Warns of Provincial Rights Erosion

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has raised alarm over the federal government’s moves to take control over the mineral resources of the provinces, calling it the most sensitive issue facing the country today. In a news conference in Peshawar, the veteran politician criticized the passing of bills related to mineral resources by provincial governments, which he claimed were in violation of the Constitution of Pakistan.

Maulana Fazlur Rehman emphasized that the Constitution clearly mandates that provincial interests must be considered while making legislation. He warned that any attempt to override provincial control of natural resources, particularly minerals, would be unacceptable to his party and the people of the provinces.

“The most sensitive issue at the moment is our minerals,” Rehman said, adding that the Mines and Minerals Bill was particularly controversial and would lead to severe consequences if it led to a transfer of control over mineral resources from provinces to the federal government. He also reiterated his position that no compromise would be made on the powers of the provinces regarding their natural resources.

“If the government does not wake up to this issue, we will have to come to the fore,” he stated, referring to the growing concerns in provincial circles about the central government’s actions.

He also spoke on the issue of FATA’s merger, which he termed a decision made under global pressure and said it was not in the interest of Pakistan. Rehman added that the merger was a part of the political fallout of external factors, particularly international powers influencing the country’s decision-making.

Additionally, the JUI-F chief brought up the issue of Afghan refugees, calling their forced displacement a serious humanitarian and political issue. He emphasized that the issue was not one-sided but rather a joint responsibility of both Pakistan and Afghanistan.

In his speech, Rehman also announced several protests and marches to raise awareness and apply political pressure on these critical issues. A march against Israel will be held at Minar Pakistan on April 27. Furthermore, he announced that there will be a million march in Peshawar on May 11, reflecting concerns about unrest in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, where he believes the government’s writ has expired.

Addressing concerns in the Mines and Minerals Act, Rehman clarified that the law was not drafted by JUI-F and that the resources and their management should remain under provincial jurisdiction. He further added that all political parties in the provinces should be brought together to unify their stance and resist federal encroachment.

“We had previously blocked legislation related to Reko Diq, and we stand firm on our position regarding provincial autonomy over mineral resources,” he concluded.

 
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