Turmoil in Swat Valley - Pakistan

Swat valley was included into Pakistan in 1969. Previously it was ruled by a "Wali" (Emperor). He conceded to Government of Pakistan and Swat became a dirtict of NWFP. The justice was swift, simple and people were happy and content. Decisions on public grievances were made with in days and victims compensated with out fail and prejudice. Non-muslims were given full protection and freedom to trade, worship and education and were treated equal citizen to muslims in the state.

After becoming part of Pakistan, Swatis became discontent at lenghty, expensive and corrupt judicial system of inherited through British empire. Swatis were not used to this ineffective system. Movements for restoration of old judicial system were initiated many a time since 1969 but the momentum in such demands was felt when Maulana Sufi Muhammad founded a movement called as Tehrik-e-Nifaz-e-Shariat-e Muhammadee (TNSM). It can be translated into the movement for implementation of Islamic laws. This movement has grass root support and assistance in whole of Malakand Division - of which Swat is just a part. This movement has spread to Northern district of Hazara Division called as Kohistan.

Betrayals by successive Pakistani Governments for enforcement of Shariah laws in Malakand Division have made people of the region to disbelieve the promises of governments. Thus they have put their trust for Maluana Sufi Muhammad of TNSM.

After government detained Maulana Sufi Muhammad, his son-in-law (named a Maulvi Fazal Ullah) founded an extremist group with in TNSM and started his own FM radio in Swat. He is a vocal speaker and people listen to him with great interest. He has touched the hearts and minds of the people of the region.

Govenment of Paksitan started a military operation which has failed to achieve its results. On the contrary, this operation has given more support to the Taleban of all groups.

The provincial government of Awami National Party (ANP) negotiated for a face saving deal with TNSM and are trying to negotiate peace with Taleban to restore writ of government in the region specially SwatValley.

Swat is a scenic valley with high mountains covered with cedar, deodar and pines. It has orchards and vegetables of all temperate and tropical climates. Special sawti ric is grown which is very delicious.

Swatis are predominately people of Yousafzai tribe who migrated to the valley from Afghnaistan and Central Asian regions. Some stayed in Swat valley and some moved to the plains of Mardan and Swabi which some moved to the now districts of Mansehra and Battagram which are part of Hazara Division.