SWAT: The residents of Saidu Sharif Barkaley rallied together on Sunday, urging the district administration and Swat police to shield them and their communal land from the clutches of the land grabber mafia.
Led by the area’s elders including Inamullah Khan, Mian Gul Badshah, Bakht Sherawan, Abdul Rahim, Khurshid, Fazal Khaliq, protesters initially convened a protest in front of the Swat Press Club, subsequently transitioning to a press conference at Swat press club as well.
Holding posters bearing slogans condemning the land mafia, demonstrators vocally demanded governmental intervention to safeguard approximately 3500 square feet of land that has served as a communal asset for 54 years.
During the press conference, Inamullah Khan stressed the historical significance of the land, situated in Mohalla Bilal Masjid Berkley( Saidu Sharif), adjacent to the former residences of Swat rulers. “Originally designated for mosque and communal activities by the last Wali of Swat, the land has remained a focal point for various social and welfare endeavors within the community,” he said and further elaborated the community’s plight, citing attempts by an influential lawyer, followed by his son, to annex the land through coercion and armed intimidation unlawfully.
“Despite lacking legal documentation or official registration, the land grabbers resorted to employing armed mobs, instigating fear and unrest among residents,” he said.
Expressing discontent over the administration’s perceived inaction, residents implored authorities to address the land grabbers’ nefarious activities swiftly.
They emphasized the imminent threat of bloodshed and pledged to persist in their protests until substantive measures were taken to protect their rights and communal assets.
“The unresolved legacy of attempted land seizure, originating from the later layer’s era, underscores the persistent struggle against unlawful encroachment and the unabated resilience of the community in defending its collective interests,” they said and added that
in the absence of decisive governmental intervention, residents vow to sustain their peaceful demonstrations, signaling an unwavering commitment to uphold justice and preserve the integrity of their communal heritage.
