Peaceful Pashtun Protest in Peshawar: Aam Olas Ep #136

In Aam Olas Ep #136, Yousaf Jan Utmanzai traveled to Peshawar to cover a powerful yet largely ignored Pashtun protest. Outside the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Provincial Assembly, tribal Pashtuns had been staging a protest for over one and a half months quietly, patiently, and peacefully.

What made this protest remarkable was not its size, but its character.

Aam Olas Ep 136

A Different Kind of Protest

Across Pakistan and the world, protests are often marked by road blockages, burning tires, clashes, and damage to public or private property. Even so-called civilized societies frequently witness violence during demonstrations.

But here, the scene was entirely different.

Instead of chaos, the protesters expressed their resistance through Attan, the traditional Pashtun dance, accompanied by the rhythmic beat of the dhool. No vandalism. No threats. No violence. Just culture, discipline, and dignity.

This peaceful expression sent a clear message: Pashtuns are not enemies of the state; they are its backbone.

Sacrifices Made for the Sake of Pakistan

During the episode, Yousaf Jan Utmanzai reminded viewers of a question rarely asked:

Who willingly leaves their business, village, and homeland when asked only Pashtuns did.

Tribal Pashtuns vacated their ancestral towns to allow military operations against terrorism. They stood for hours under the scorching sun at security checkpoints. They endured displacement, loss of livelihood, and destruction of property, all in the name of peace and stability for Pakistan.

These sacrifices were not forced. They were made with trust in the state.

A Protest Without Hatred

For over a month and a half, the protesters neither blocked roads nor disrupted daily life in Peshawar. Despite hardship and neglect, their chants were not against Pakistan but for it.

“Long live Pakistan,” echoed repeatedly through the protest.

This loyalty, even in the face of injustice, reflects the true spirit of the tribal Pashtuns—resilient, patient, and deeply patriotic.

Broken Promises and Unfulfilled Agreements

The protest centers on unfulfilled agreements between the government and tribal communities following counterterrorism operations. Tribal districts were among the most heavily damaged areas during the war on terror.

In the presence of senior officials and the GOC Pakistan Army, the state agreed to provide at least 15% financial compensation for reconstruction. Even then, the tribes accepted less, believing that “something is better than nothing.”

However, nearly a year later, the government withdrew from its commitment and proposed an even lower compensation amount, the tribal Pashtuns say, which is insufficient to rebuild their destroyed hometowns.

Key Points of the Agreement

According to the original terms:

• 45 lakh PKR per marla for land acquired for roads and parks
• 45,000 PKR per square foot for destroyed buildings
• Inclusion of displaced families whose properties were damaged due to war

These terms were mutually agreed upon, but never fully implemented.

A Warning from History

Today, these tribal Pashtuns stand exhausted, displaced, and disappointed, but still peaceful. They ask only for what was promised to them.

History has shown that when grievances are ignored for too long, situations can spiral out of control. In the past, such neglect led to unrest, only for the victims to be labeled rebels later.

A Call for Responsibility, Not Force

Rather than ignoring these voices, the government and state institutions must act responsibly. Dialogue, compensation, and rehabilitation are not favors; they are obligations.

These are the people who sacrificed everything without complaint. The nation owes them more than silence.

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Final Reflection

Aam Olas Episode #136 is not just a report; it is a reminder.

The tribal Pashtuns protesting in Peshawar are not demanding privilege. They are demanding justice, dignity, and fulfillment of promises. Even now, with hope fading, they continue to stand peacefully and proudly declare:

“Long live Pakistan.”

The question is, will Pakistan stand with them in return?