ISLAMABAD: The humans in FATA have no rights. The only demand that all tribes over generations have been repeating was for an access to basic rights with the provision was basic facilities, with the mainstreaming of this troubled strip with the rest of Pakistan.
This was the consensual point of all speakers in a speech competition at graduation ceremony of students among all agencies students of FATA. Titled as the Status of Human Rights in FATA, which was arranged by Shaheed Bhutto Foundation (SBF) in collaboration with All FATA Students Forum (AFSF).
The young speakers were so passionate that one after another came to the podium and repeatedly pointed to the basic and human rights available to the citizens of Pakistan, with the impressive choice of words and expressions. Some even lamented that, the citizens of FATA were not treated even at equal levels with the rest of citizenry settled across Pakistan. Their unified message was singular that irrespective of any differentiation, the writ of rule of law must of extended to the FATA, and extensive reform package consisting short and long term initiatives be launched on war-footing as decade-long war is ending there.
Asad Afridi, from Khyber Agency and studying at Kyber Model College stood first and was awarded Rs 5,000 in cash. Zulifqar Ahmed of FR Kohat stood second, meanwhile Alamgir Khan and Nauman Khan from Bajaur Agency stood third and fourth respectively and were awarded cash prizes including certificates of appreciation.
Published in Daily Times, September 28th 2017.
