The Pashtun community, known for its resilience, strength, and pride, holds a significant place in Pakistan’s history and development. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) region, along with the newly merged districts (NMDs), has been the center of various narratives—both local and international. One of the most prominent narratives in recent times is that of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM), which portrays Pashtuns as victims of state policies. This article aims to counter the PTM narrative, highlighting the state’s efforts in uplifting KP and NMDs, addressing security challenges, and underscoring the vital role of Pashtuns in Pakistan’s national development and regional stability.
The PTM has positioned itself as the voice of the Pashtun population, claiming that Pashtuns in KP and NMDs are marginalized and victimized by the state. While it is important to acknowledge the historical and ongoing challenges in the region, it is equally important to recognize the efforts of the state in addressing these issues. The PTM’s narrative often overlooks the broader context in which the state’s actions are taken, particularly in the face of terrorism and regional instability. Pakistan has been on the frontlines of the global war on terror, and KP’s proximity to Afghanistan has made it particularly vulnerable to terrorism and extremism. This geopolitical reality cannot be ignored when analyzing the region’s security policies. The state’s efforts, which include military operations and development projects, are aimed at not only ensuring peace and security but also improving the socio-economic conditions of the Pashtun population.
Contrary to the PTM’s claims, the Pakistani state has undertaken numerous initiatives aimed at uplifting the socio-economic conditions of KP and NMDs. These regions, once heavily impacted by terrorism and insurgency, have seen substantial investment in infrastructure and development. The construction of roads, dams, schools, and hospitals has been a priority for the state in order to improve the quality of life for the local population. One such project is the Gomal Zam Dam, which is a cornerstone of the state’s developmental agenda in the region. The dam, which will irrigate 190,000 acres of barren land and generate 17.4 MW of electricity, is a prime example of the government’s commitment to transforming the region’s economic landscape. Projects like these not only boost the local economy but also create jobs and reduce poverty, contributing to long-term peace and stability. In addition to large-scale infrastructure projects, the government has also focused on improving education, healthcare, and access to basic services in KP and NMDs. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to integrate the region into the national economy and ensure that the Pashtun population benefits from Pakistan’s overall development.
Pashtuns have long been an integral part of Pakistan’s fabric, contributing significantly to the country’s governance, military, sports, and international recognition. Pashtuns hold key positions in state institutions, a testament to their representation and influence in Pakistan’s decision-making processes. Historically, Pashtuns have been well-represented in the highest offices of Pakistan. Ghulam Ishaq Khan, a Pashtun, served as the President of Pakistan, and General Waheed Kakar played a key role as the Army Chief. Pashtuns like Air Chief Abbas Khattak and Roedad Khan have made significant contributions to Pakistan’s defense and civil services, ensuring that their community remains central to the country’s progress. In addition to political and military contributions, Pashtuns have also shone in the fields of sports and international activism. Jahangir Khan and Jansher Khan, both legendary squash players, brought international acclaim to Pakistan, as did cricketers like Younis Khan and Shahid Afridi. On the global stage, Malala Yousafzai, a Nobel laureate, has become a symbol of resilience and advocacy for girls’ education, reflecting the strength and potential of the Pashtun community. This level of representation in key institutions challenges the PTM’s claim that Pashtuns are marginalized or excluded from state affairs. Instead, Pashtuns have been, and continue to be, an integral part of Pakistan’s national identity and development.
While KP is the traditional home of the Pashtun people, their presence and influence extend far beyond the province’s borders. Pashtuns are a significant part of Pakistan’s national fabric, with a large population residing in major cities like Karachi. This widespread presence allows Pashtuns to contribute to Pakistan’s economy and culture on a national scale. In Karachi, Pashtuns are involved in a wide range of economic activities, from business to labor, contributing to the city’s vibrant and diverse economy. Their role in the national economy, combined with their participation in government and civil society, highlights the integral role of Pashtuns in Pakistan’s development.
KP’s geographical location, sharing a border with Afghanistan, has made it particularly susceptible to terrorism and cross-border extremism. The Khawarij—a term used to describe extremist groups—pose a significant threat to the region’s stability, necessitating robust security measures by the state. The porous border with Afghanistan has historically allowed militants to move freely between the two countries, exacerbating the security situation in KP. Pakistan’s military operations, such as Zarb-e-Azb and Radd-ul-Fasaad, have been instrumental in curbing terrorist activities and restoring peace in the region. These operations, while difficult, were essential in ensuring the long-term security of KP and Pakistan as a whole. The state’s actions in KP are not just about security but also about protecting the region from the spillover effects of Afghanistan’s conflict. The fight against terrorism in KP is a critical part of Pakistan’s broader counter-terrorism strategy, which aims to ensure peace and stability not just within Pakistan’s borders but across the region
While the PTM has brought attention to some genuine grievances in the region, it often politicizes these issues in a way that undermines the state’s efforts to address them. The movement’s narrative of victimhood can create divisions within the Pashtun community, making it harder for the state to implement effective solutions. The PTM’s rhetoric, which paints the state as an oppressor of the Pashtun people, does not take into account the broader challenges faced by the region, particularly in terms of security and terrorism. By aligning itself with an agenda that sometimes mirrors the narratives of extremist groups, the PTM risks obstructing the peace and development that are crucial for KP’s future.
The challenges faced by KP are not unique to Pakistan; they are part of a broader regional context shaped by Afghanistan’s prolonged conflict and foreign interventions. The cross-border movement of militants, refugees, and extremist ideologies has made the region a hotspot for terrorism, requiring a coordinated effort by both Pakistan and the international community. Pakistan’s role in ensuring regional stability is critical. The country’s counter-terrorism efforts, combined with its developmental initiatives in KP and NMDs, are aimed at stabilizing the region and preventing further conflict. These efforts are not just about securing Pakistan’s borders but also about contributing to peace in a volatile region.
Pashtuns are central to Pakistan’s national unity, contributing to the country’s governance, military, sports, and international reputation. While the region faces unique challenges due to its proximity to Afghanistan, Pakistan remains committed to the socio-economic uplift of KP and NMDs. The state’s efforts in infrastructure development, security, and economic integration reflect a broader vision for peace and prosperity in the region. The PTM’s narrative, while addressing some real grievances, often undermines broader state efforts aimed at development and stability. It is crucial to view these issues in a broader regional context, where security and socio-economic development are interconnected. In the end, Pashtuns are not just the pride of Pakistan; they are key players in ensuring peace and stability in a volatile region. Any movement or narrative that seeks to divide this relationship must be critically examined in light of the country’s larger goals for peace, development, and security.