Tribal Forces Boycott Polio Drive Over Unfulfilled Service Demands

News Desk
MOHMAND: Personnel belonging to the Levies and Khasadar forces in Pakistan’s merged tribal districts have announced a complete boycott of the upcoming polio vaccination campaign, scheduled to commence on September 21, citing the government’s persistent failure to fulfill longstanding service-related demands.
The announcement was finalized during a high-profile protest sit-in at the historic Bab-i-Khyber. Addressing the gathered personnel, Syed Jalal, chairman of the Levies and Khasadar forces’ committee, declared that the strike and boycott would remain in effect indefinitely until authorities formally accept their demands and resolve lingering administrative issues stemming from the region’s integration.
As part of their stringent enforcement strategy, the committee has also instituted a heavy fine of Rs25 million on any personnel from the Levies or Khasadar ranks who defy the directive and participate in security or administrative duties during the vital immunisation drive.
This unprecedented punitive measure underscores the depth of alienation and frustration among the tribal security forces.
The boycott poses a serious operational challenge to health authorities aiming to inoculate millions of children in the sensitive security environment of the tribal districts. Government and police officials are reportedly holding behind-the-scenes consultations to address the grievances of the protesting personnel before the vaccination drive officially kicks off.