PESHAWAR: Awami National Party (ANP) central president Senator Aimal Wali Khan has issued a plea for immediate government action. He is calling upon provincial and federal authorities to provide urgent relief to displaced families in Chitral.
These families fled border areas following recent tensions and cross-border firing between Pakistani security forces and the Afghan Taliban.
In a statement on 3 March, He expressed deep concern for the residents of Arandu and adjoining villages. Reports indicate that these people were forced to flee their homes. Many sought shelter in Drosh and other parts of Lower Chitral.
The Senator noted that these displaced families in Chitral now face severe hardships. They currently lack access to basic facilities, food, and medical assistance.
Local Support Reaches Its Limit
Local office-bearers of ANP Lower Chitral are currently extending support to the affected families. Members of the Khudai Khidmatgar Organisation are also assisting on a self-help basis. However, Senator Khan noted that these efforts remain insufficient due to limited resources.
He claimed that neither the provincial nor federal governments have taken meaningful steps yet. Authorities have not announced a comprehensive relief package for the displaced families in Chitral.
Concerns Over Inappropriate Living Conditions
The ANP chief highlighted poor conditions at a college in Drosh. Authorities temporarily allocated two halls there to accommodate internally displaced persons (IDPs). However, the current arrangement compels men and women to stay in the same space.
Senator Khan called this arrangement inappropriate. He urged authorities to ensure separate accommodations and a steady food supply. He also demanded better medical facilities and security for the displaced families in Chitral.
With Ramazan approaching, Mr. Khan appealed to the government to rise above political considerations. He requested an emergency relief package specifically for women and children.
He stressed that the state has a constitutional responsibility to protect the life and property of its citizens. He insisted that the government must not leave these displaced families in Chitral alone during this crisis.
