PESHAWAR: The fifth round of talks between Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the local peace jirga in Bajaur once again failed to reach any outcome, as the Taliban firmly refused to vacate Bajaur.
According to sources, the jirga returned after the talks. Various points were discussed between both sides, but no consensus could be reached on any of them.
According to sources, there has been no change in the Taliban’s demands and stance.
The Taliban insist they will not leave Bajaur and will not relocate from the population. They say that the security forces should not move in the form of groups or convoys, and whenever the forces supply rations or other materials to their posts, they must first inform the Taliban through the jirga.
The Taliban also maintain that security forces should not move in convoys carrying weapons, and that neither side should attack the other.
On Thursday, Maulana Tariq, who was part of the negotiating delegation, told The News that the dialogue took place in a pleasant atmosphere and it is hoped that progress in this process is possible.
He said that due to the delegation consisting of 10 religious scholars, some softness was observed in the Taliban’s behavior and signs of improvement in the talks were visible.
He added that after consultation it will be decided whether the jirga will go again for further talks with the Taliban or not.
“The next step will be decided after consultation with all relevant stakeholders”
Armed groups of the TTP have once again become active in areas of Bajaur, particularly in Mamond.
Their presence has caused fear and unrest among the local population.
According to sources, a large number of them are said to be Afghans who have refused to return or be handed over to the Afghan government.
Limited operations are being conducted by the security forces, but a full-scale operation is being avoided to allow efforts through the jirga to continue for a peaceful resolution.
Adviser to the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for Information, Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif, told this correspondent that at the request of Bajaur elders, time is being given to them for peace negotiations, and the government is also consulting elders from other districts.
After the jirgas of various districts, a grand jirga will be formed which will present its collective proposals for peace. In light of these proposals, dialogue will also be held with the federal government. According to sources, security agencies and the district administration are fully supporting the negotiation process, but due to the Taliban’s rigid and inflexible stance, no significant progress seems likely at this stage.
