In recent weeks, the banned Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) has once again attempted to spread a false narrative about the distribution of resources in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), using a failed jirga as their platform. The movement’s demands and allegations are not only absurd but are also starkly at odds with the facts on the ground. With increasing links to external influences, PTM’s propaganda seems to be rooted in foreign agendas aimed at destabilizing Pakistan. However, the truth paints a very different picture.
Sacrifices and Achievements
It is impossible to discuss KP’s trajectory without acknowledging the immense sacrifices made by the people and security forces of Pakistan in the fight against terrorism. Over 91,000 Pakistanis, including more than 27,000 martyrs and 63,936 injured, have contributed to the fight to secure the country’s future. As a direct result of these efforts, 46,978 square kilometers of land have been cleared of terrorists, a monumental achievement that has allowed communities to rebuild and thrive.
While the PTM attempts to skew these facts, the reality is undeniable—Pakistan’s armed forces have not only secured peace in KP but have also repatriated 99% of internally displaced families to their homes. The people of the region, once at the mercy of terrorist groups, are now rebuilding their lives.
Development in KPK
The PTM’s claims of neglect in infrastructure and resources are directly contradicted by the ongoing development work in KP and the merged districts. As of March 2022, nearly 128,000 houses have been rebuilt. With 2,414 development projects, valued at over 112 billion rupees, currently underway, KP is transforming into a hub of progress.
Religious infrastructure is not neglected either, with 327 mosque construction projects valued at 653 million rupees initiated to strengthen community ties. Additionally, compensation for families who lost their homes during the conflict has been a priority. In a 2015 survey, 105,744 homes were compensated for, with a total of 32.99 million rupees distributed to those affected. By 2022, the compensation program had expanded to include an additional 127,639 homes.
Health and Education
One of the major criticisms propagated by PTM revolves around public services such as health and education. Yet, the state’s commitment to improving these sectors in KP is evident. In the health sector alone, 1,570 projects worth 30.49 billion rupees are currently being implemented, including the construction of 25 hospitals and hundreds of dispensaries and basic health units.
Similarly, in the education sector, 2,900 projects valued at 52.74 billion rupees have been launched, leading to the establishment of 4,253 schools, 37 degree colleges, 16 polytechnic institutes, 13 government technical institutes, and 4 cadet colleges. These numbers highlight the government’s focus on strengthening KP’s educational infrastructure, providing the youth of the region with opportunities for growth and development.
Security Concerns
The PTM often uses the security situation in KP as a rallying point for its followers. However, the government has not ignored the need for police reform and strengthening law enforcement in the province. A total of 54 projects aimed at improving police infrastructure and operations, with a budget of over 5 billion rupees, have been implemented, ensuring that the province remains secure and well-regulated.
Resource Distribution Myth
At the core of the PTM’s propaganda is the notion that KP has been shortchanged in resource distribution. However, following the 2017 census, KP’s allocation from the National Finance Commission (NFC) award increased significantly. Today, the province receives 754.4 billion rupees, while the newly merged districts are allocated 272.6 billion rupees.
Moreover, for the fiscal year 2024-2025, 42.32 billion rupees have been earmarked specifically for development projects in these merged districts. This deliberate effort to uplift the region starkly contrasts with the PTM’s misleading narrative.
Major Projects Shaping the Future
KP is witnessing major infrastructure developments that are reshaping the region’s future. One of the largest of these projects, the Burhan M-1 to Dera Ismail Khan motorway, was completed at a cost of over 110 billion rupees, drastically improving connectivity and creating new economic opportunities. Other key projects include the ongoing construction of the Pindi Gheb-Kohat road, with 93% of the work already complete, and the Khyber Institute of Child Health, where 80% of the work has been finalized.
Other critical infrastructure projects include road development in Chitral and Orakzai, both nearing completion, and the expansion of educational institutions such as Bacha Khan University and the University of Buner. All these projects underscore the government’s commitment to the region’s long-term progress and prosperity.
The PTM’s Waning Influence
Despite PTM’s continuous efforts to amplify their disinformation campaign, the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are not buying into it. Attendance at their recent jirga was minimal, reflecting the growing disillusionment among Pashtuns with the PTM’s narrative. The jirga’s failure to garner meaningful support demonstrates that the people of KP have rejected this foreign-backed narrative.
PTM’s attempt to propagate a misleading narrative about resource distribution in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has been effectively countered by the reality of the state’s efforts. From infrastructure development to health and education reforms, the region is witnessing unprecedented progress. The people of KP, recognizing these tangible improvements, are increasingly resistant to the PTM’s divisive agenda, which serves foreign interests rather than the welfare of the Pashtuns.
