LOWER DIR: A jirga comprising representatives of various political parties and local elders from Tormang Darra has unanimously rejected any proposal to include the area in a proposed central district, declaring that the residents of Tormang I, Tormang II of the Khall tehsil would remain part of Lower Dir.
The jirga was addressed by prominent local elders and political leaders including ANP Lower Dir general secretary Malik Mohammad Zaib Khan, Malik Aftab Khan, chairman Gul Mukhtiar, Malik Fazal Rehman and others.
Speakers said the people ofTormang Darra had previously opposed proposals to merge the area with Upper Dir, arguing that such a move was against the wishes of residents. They said renewed discussions about Tormang Darra’s inclusion in a proposed central district were also unacceptable.
‘We have rejected this proposal and will never become part of a central district,’ the speakers said, adding that while they did not oppose the efforts of Sultankhel and Paindakhel communities to seek a separate district, the people of Khall tehsil would not agree to be included in the new set-up under any circumstances.
The jirga constituted a committee tasked with holding consultations with local elders including membersof the Akhundzada family and representatives of Sultankhel. The committee will formulate recommendations before convening a larger public gathering to announce a future course of action.
The speakers said elected representatives would also be taken into confidence before delegations meet the chief minister and other relevant authorities to convey the area’s position on the proposed administrative changes.
The jirga also expressed concern over prolonged power outages and a shortage of line staff in Toormang Darra. The participants also demanded an end to unannounced electricity outage, the appointment of additional linemen and the launch of development projects for the area.