Government rejects claims of forced evacuation in Tirah Valley, calling reports misleading. Officials say only intelligence-based operations are underway.
Government Rejects Reports of Forced Evacuation in Tirah Valley
The government has taken notice of what it calls misleading and malicious reports claiming that residents of Tirah Valley are being forced to evacuate on the orders of the military. Officials have categorically denied these claims, stating that no such directive has been issued by either the federal government or the armed forces.
According to authorities, the spread of such information appears to be aimed at creating fear among the public, undermining security institutions, and serving political or personal interests.
Intelligence-Based Operations Continue as Routine
Law enforcement agencies clarified that only intelligence-based operations (IBOs) are being conducted in the region, specifically targeting terrorist elements. Officials emphasized that:
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These operations are routine security measures
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Peaceful civilians are not the target
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There is no requirement or plan for mass displacement
Authorities further noted that local residents themselves have expressed concern about the presence of militant elements — referred to by the state as Khawarij — and want stability restored in Tirah.
KP Government Notification: Funds for Possible Voluntary Movement
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Relief, Rehabilitation and Settlement Department issued a notification on December 26, 2025, allocating approximately Rs 4 billion, according to reports.
Officials clarified that these funds are not for a forced evacuation, but are meant for precautionary and humanitarian planning in case of temporary and voluntary population movement from certain parts of Tirah (Bagh area).
The allocated funds would support:
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Transportation assistance
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Food supply
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Cash aid
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Temporary accommodation arrangements
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Registration and facilitation centers
Authorities stressed this is pre-emptive planning, not an active displacement order.
Decision Based on Local Consultation
The document further states that, according to the Deputy Commissioner Khyber, any proposed voluntary relocation reflects the wishes of local residents expressed through a representative jirga at the district level.
Officials say factors such as:
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Weather conditions
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Administrative logistics
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Local ground realities
were considered. The process, if needed, would be managed without formal camp settlements.
Government Warns Against Politicizing Security Matters
The government has also cautioned that linking this potential voluntary movement to the armed forces is false and fabricated. Officials allege that certain political actors are attempting to exploit the situation to damage the reputation of security institutions.
Such narratives, they said, are regrettable and harmful, particularly at a time when stability and cooperation are needed in sensitive areas like Tirah.
Key Takeaways
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No military or federal order has been issued to evacuate Tirah Valley
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Security forces are conducting targeted intelligence-based operations only
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Rs 4 billion allocation is for contingency humanitarian planning
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Any movement would be temporary and voluntary, based on local consultation
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Government calls reports of forced evacuation false and politically motivated
