The 89th radio program as part of the Center for Research and Security Studies’ (CRSS) counter-radicalization initiative Ulasi Taroon (Social Cohesion) was aired on October 11, 2019, on the topic of “Merger of FATA, a Step Towards Social Cohesion”. The show discussed how the integration of former FATA region into Khyber Pakhtunkhwa greatly supported the equal citizenry dream of tribal people.
The first guest on show, Mr. Saeed Ali, a faculty member of FATA University, noted that KP-FATA merger has paved way for tribal district’s equal access to social, economic and political rights as such fundamental provisions were not recognized under the draconian Frontier Crimes Regulation (FCR). The integration augurs well for a bright and a more connected future, where it will give them better opportunities of social inclusion and mobility. Such changes in the life of a nation defines their future. A holistic approach taken by the state is always beneficial for the sustainable peace.
The second guest on show, Mr. Alamgir Khan, one of the Ulasi Taroon Youth Alumni and a student of IM Sciences, Peshawar noted that tribal youth understands the need and value of social peace, order and cohesion very well, having witnessed war and violence in the conflict-ridden region. Youth of former FATA truly believe in activism and determined to play their critical role in upholding equality and rule of law. They do not want to be discriminated on the basis of their culture, cast, creed or language. Youth wants equal citizenry, representation and constitutional rights. The legal system in place after the merger will help to provide political, social, and economic rights to the people of tribal districts. What really will make a difference will be the practical steps and implementation of constitutional provisions available to them.
Former FATA youth has an important role to play, to spread awareness about the constitutional rights available to and legal services on offer for the tribal people. Building trust among the communities – that they are as much equal citizens as the ones in other parts of the country and everyone is equally subject to and accountable before the law – will be crucial for the success of new legal system. Harnessing the immense potential of tribal women should also be one of the core considerations for the development of tribal region.
The third guest on phone, Mr. Ibrahim Shinwari, a senior journalist, explained that before the extension of constitution of Pakistan, FATA for a very long period of time had been ruled under black law and it requires cognizance of the sensitivities living in the society. Election is the greatest achievement of tribal people that has given them a platform to actively participate in the democratic processes.
About Ulasi Taroon
Ulasi Taroon is a counter radicalization initiative of Center for Research and Security Studies that aims to address the radicalization challenges, extremist ideologies and foster social cohesion through a discourse anchored in the core constitutional values which are fundamentally essential prerequisites for social peace and harmony. The endeavor aims to cultivate and sensitize the people of KP in the core values in the Pakistani constitution and our social contract. It’s an attempt to highlight the criticality of abiding by these ideals – such as adherence to rule of law, primacy and sanctity of constitution, equal citizenry, responsible citizenship, respect for fundamental human rights, tolerance for diversity and different opinions, inclusive democracy and good governance – as a measure of fostering social cohesion and peaceful co-existence.