Pashtuns Considered a Greater Threat Than India in Punjab, Alarming Situation: Asghar Khan Achakzai
MERGHA ZAKRIAZAI – Provincial President of the Awami National Party (ANP), Asghar Khan Achakzai, has expressed deep concern over the prevailing political and security situation, stating that Pashtuns are now being perceived as a greater threat in Punjab than India itself—a situation he described as extremely alarming.
Addressing a jirga held on the occasion of a settlement between parties in Margha Zakriazai, Achakzai said that Pashtuns must seriously reflect on the direction in which current circumstances are heading. He warned that instead of improving on their own, the conditions are likely to become more complex, requiring collective and practical steps to end ongoing tribal conflicts and hostilities within Pashtun society.
Peace Through Jirga System
Achakzai appreciated the resolution of the dispute through mutual consent and the traditional jirga system, calling it a positive and commendable step. He emphasized that if tribal conflicts continue to be resolved through dialogue, jirgas, and consensus, peace, brotherhood, and stability can be promoted in society.
He noted that tribal enmities do not remain confined to families but affect the entire society. A single conflict can persist for generations, resulting in the loss of precious human lives as well as hindering social and economic development. He urged Pashtun elders, political leaders, and tribal notables to play their role in steering people toward peace and reconciliation rather than hostility.
Alarming Security Perception
The ANP provincial president expressed particular concern over the security perception regarding Pashtuns. “Today, Pashtuns are being considered a greater threat in Punjab than India, which is an extremely worrying situation,” he said. He stressed that Pashtuns must seriously analyze the driving forces behind this situation and its possible future implications.
He further stated that hatred, mistrust, and mutual conflicts weaken any society, while unity, political awareness, and mutual consultation strengthen nations. He called upon all segments of Pashtun society to set aside differences and work together for peace, development, and the protection of their future.
