Tribal Jirga Rejects Merger of Rara Sham and Andar Par with Barkhan, Demands They Remain Part of Musakhel

QUETTA: A tribal jirga in Rara Sham has unanimously rejected the Balochistan government’s decision to merge the union councils of Rara Sham and Andar Par into Barkhan district, adopting a resolution calling for both areas to remain part of Musakhel district.

The jirga, chaired by Sardar Asad Zaman Shah at the residence of the late Sardar Syed Zaman Shah, was attended by tribal elders, religious scholars, elected local government representatives, youth, and leaders of various political parties from Musakhel.

Participants thanked Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti for granting the area the status of a tehsil and sub-division, as well as for initiating development projects and creating employment opportunities.

During the meeting, an open vote was held in which all but two participants supported retaining Rara Sham and Andar Par as part of Musakhel district. The resolution was subsequently passed by an overwhelming majority.

The jirga urged the chief minister to withdraw the notification merging the two union councils into Barkhan district, arguing that public opinion, geographical realities, and local administrative needs should be taken into account.

The participants also appealed to the provincial government to maintain the tehsil and sub-division status of the area while allowing Rara Sham and Andar Par to remain under the jurisdiction of Musakhel district. They expressed hope that the government would review its decision in line with the wishes of the local population.