By 
22-11-24
Emma Wijnen
Team Pakistan Researcher,
Global Human Rights Defence.
Kurram, a tribal region near the Afghanistan border, has experienced escalating violence in recent months. On Thursday, the conflict reached a new low as at least 42 were killed during an attack on a convoy of vehicles. The convoy, containing mostly Shia people, was underway from Parachinar to Peshawar when it was ambushed.
The violence in Kurram is rooted in longstanding sectarian divisions between Sunni and Shia Muslims. In recent months, however, the violence has been exacerbated by the resurgence of militancy, especially from the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), and the instability caused by the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan. The TTP has been increasingly active in the region, launching bombings, ambushes, and targeted killings of both security forces and civilians. Additionally, land disputes among the sects cause a rise in tensions.
Human rights organisations have raised alarms about the growing sectarian rift and the failure of the Pakistani government to intervene effectively. A land commission was formed to solve the land dispute, however it has yet to make an announcement. Those who suffer the most are the inhabitants of the area, around 700,000 people. Road blockades put a stain on access to food, fuel and medical supplies. Children are also affected as schools often close due to the violence. A solution is needed to address the violence and protect vulnerable communities.
Sources and further readings:
Aljazeera, ‘At least 42 killed in sectarian violence in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’ (Aljazeera, 22 November 2024) <https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/11/22/dozens-killed-in-sectarian-violence-in-pakistans-khyber-pakhtunkhwa> accessed on 22 November 2024.
Butt A.I, “HRCP calls for urgent action on Kurram crisis” (Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, 7 November 2024) <https://hrcp-web.org/hrcpweb/hrcp-calls-for-urgent-action-on-kurram-crisis/> accessed on 22 November 2024.
Daily Ausaf, ‘Schools in Upper Kurram closed for three days amid security concerns’ (Daily Ausaf, 28 October 2024) <https://dailyausaf.com/en/education/schools-in-upper-kurram-closed-for-three-days-amid-security-concerns/> accessed on 22 November 2024.
Hussain A, ‘Kurram clashes: How a Pakistani land dispute led to a deadly tribal battle’ (Aljazeera, 2 Augustus 2024) <https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/8/2/kurram-clashes-how-a-pakistani-land-dispute-led-to-a-deadly-tribal-battle> accessed on 22 November 2024.
Comments