Daily Times

DI KHAN – Repatriation of internally displaced people (IDP) from South Waziristan Agency (SWA) started on Monday amidst journalists decrying about ill treatment meted out to them during the recent visit of Khyber Pakthunkwa Governor Iqbal Zafar Jhagra.

According to official report, at least 100 families were returned to Manzakai, Raghzai and Kat Kai villages on the first day. Around 20 checking points had been set up at the camp for the verification of the displaced families. They said that in the first phase, at least, 7,348 families would be repatriated to 39 villages of SWA.

Each family was provided Rs25,000 along Rs10,000 for transportation and other costs. They were also provided with six months of ration to help them settle in their native villages.

While talking to a journalist, a member of a displaced family, Haji Muhammad, informed, “Though I don’t know the condition of my house, I am happy to go back after seven years.” He said, “We faced a difficult time as IDP and were living in a rented house. Now, I want to go back with dignity.”

On the occasion, SWA Assistant Political Agent Muhammad Shoaib told journalists that the areas, where the displaced families were being repatriated, had been cleared of terrorists. He said, “It is a positive development that IDPs are returning.”

Meanwhile, journalists from Ladha Press Club, Jandollah Press Club and Tank Press Club boycotted media coverage. They were protesting “the ill-treatment meted out” to them during the recent visit of the governor.

According to the official report, the repatriation will continue till May 14, 2016. A camp has been established at Khairgai, located 25 kilometers southwest of Tank city.