LOWER DIR: Local elders of Lower Dir have voiced concern over alleged irregularities in the ongoing land settlement process.

In conversations with journalists, they pointed out errors in ownership records and flawed geological data that created confusion and potential for legal disputes.

They urged provincial government and Board of Revenue officials to simplify correction procedures and ensure transparency. `Land ownership is a sensitive matter. If left unresolved, these issues could lead to social unrest,` said an elder.

The elders called for immediate reforms in the process to ensure that rightful ownership is recorded accurately.Meanwhile, Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) has announced shutter-down strike across Lower Dir on April 26 to show solidarity with the people of Palestine.

Addressing a press conference in Balambat, JI local leaders Maulana Asadullah Khan, Sahibzada Mohammad Yaqoob Khan, Shoaib Ahmad and Malik Sher Bahadur Khan urged people, traders and civil society to participate in the strike.

They condemned Israel`s actions in Gaza as acts of genocide and criticised the silence of Muslim leaders.

`This is not a political movement but an expression of Islamic unity with our oppressed Palestinian brothers and sisters,` said Maulana Asadullah.

Timergara Traders Association, Lower Dir District Bar Association and other local groups pledged tokeep all commercial areas closed on the day.

JIRGA: In a continued effort to promote peace and strengthen civilmilitary collaboration, Commandant Dir Task Force Brigadier Sanaullah held a jirga with local tribal elders at 185 Wing Headquarters in Lal Qila, Maidan, on Thursday.

The jirga was convened to assess regional security situation, enhance coordination between security forces and civilian population and gain insight into the prevailing sentiments within the community.

The session was attended by 20 tribal elders, representing various areas of Maidan. The gathering served as a platform for open dialogue, aimed at reinforcing mutual trust and cooperation in the region`s continued pursuit of peace and stability.