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Mandriv Sit-In Paralyzes Lower Kurram as Tensions Escalate
Mandriv sit-in in Lower Kurram blocks Tall-Parachinar Road. Protesters demand disarmament in Kurram and compensation for Bagan victims. Convoy with essential goods stranded.
ND
by News Desk
2025-01-06
Mandriv Sit-In Paralyzes Lower Kurram as Tensions Escalate

The sit-in at Mandriv in Lower Kurram has entered another day, forcing the closure of the critical Tall-Parachinar Road. The protestors are demanding the implementation of apex committee decisions, disarmament in Kurram, and compensation for victims of the Bagan attack.

Jirga members visited the sit-in and conveyed messages from the government, urging the organizers to reopen the road. However, the sit-in leaders remained resolute, announcing that the protest would continue until their demands are met.

Convoy Movement Postponed

The protest has disrupted the movement of an 80-vehicle convoy carrying essential goods, including vegetables and fruits. The convoy, which was halted after an attack on Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kurram in Bagan on January 4, has yet to depart.

The district administration has imposed a curfew from the Chapri check post, instructing citizens and tribal residents to avoid unnecessary road travel while the convoy remains stalled. Drivers, meanwhile, expressed frustration over the prolonged delays, citing risks of food spoilage amid the severe winter conditions.

Attack on DC Kurram

The convoy's suspension follows a deadly attack in Bagan, where unknown assailants opened fire on DC Kurram and government vehicles during negotiations. Seven people, including the DC, were injured in the incident.

Two suspects allegedly involved in the attack have been arrested and shifted to an undisclosed location for investigation. According to the police, both suspects were named in the FIR filed after the incident.

Barrister Saif, commenting on the situation, stated that the Kurram peace agreement remains intact, but it is too early to conclude whether local groups were involved in the attack.

Protest Demands

The sit-in organizers are adamant that they will not disperse until:

  1. Kurram is free from weapons.
  2. Compensation is provided to the families of the Bagan victims.

Protestors argue that these steps are essential to restoring peace and stability in the region.

Impact on Kurram’s Supply Chain

The blockage of the Tall-Parachinar Road has compounded the region’s challenges. For three months, the supply of essential goods to Kurram has been irregular. The convoy’s delay threatens to further exacerbate the scarcity of food and other essentials, impacting the lives of local residents.

Conclusion

As tensions in Kurram escalate, the sit-in at Mandriv highlights deep-seated grievances and security concerns in the region. While the government and jirga members strive for a resolution, the unfolding situation underscores the urgent need for peacebuilding measures and the implementation of promises made during previous negotiations.

The coming days will be crucial in determining whether dialogue can resolve the crisis or if the impasse will deepen, leaving the residents of Kurram caught in the crossfire.

 
Tagged:

PeaceInKurram

KurramCrisis

MandrivSitIn

BaganAttack

TallParachinarRoad
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