Kurram tribes continue clashing over community land

Clashes continued on the second day in Kurram between two tribes over shamilat (community land) as local administration suspended internet service in the area, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Tuesday.

According to police and hospital sources, the deadly clashes erupted Monday when the Para Chamkani tribe members opened fire at the rivals from Balishkhel in the Lower Kurram area, leaving five dead with injuries to 24 others.

Sajid Turi, who is an independent National Assembly member from the area, said they succeeded in ensuring a truce on Sunday but firing had started again. Efforts were underway to end violence, he added.

According to the Balishkhel tribesmen, people are trying to grab thousands of acres of their land and have started illegal constructions in the area. The Para Chamkani tribe opened firing at them on Monday and is not removing the illegal structures despite court orders.

The shamilat land is the one which does not come under habitation and cultivation and is considered as consolidation of land holdings for common use in official parlance. 

But the Para Chamkani tribe leaders say they have purchased the property from the actual owners.

However, tribal elders and parliamentarians are of the view that the property disputes are not being resolved for a long period due to the lack of interest shown by the district administration and other officials.

Haji Salim Khan – a Bangash tribe leader – told media that there was a need for a government committee to solve issues related to land and others.’

Similarly, Haji Sardar Hussain of Turi tribe urged the officials to solve disputes in the area by ensuring ceasefire and handing over the land to the original owners through revenue record.

Meanwhile, Kurram Deputy Commissioner Shah Fahad was hopeful of controlling the situation by Tuesday evening and he said efforts were being with the help of tribal elders to stop clashes between the rival groups.