POST-CONFLICT RECONSTRUCTION IN FATA, PAKISTAN

Abstract

This paper explores the developments in FATA in the aftermath of 9/11 and analyzes factors which paved the way for FATA to become one of the most violent places in the world since 2001. During the “Great Game” the borders of the British India reached the Durand Line while those of the Tsarist Empire extended to Amu River. The Durand Line Border Agreement concluded on November 12th , 1893, between the British India and Afghanistan fixing the boundary line from Wakhan in the north to the Iranian border in the south, which has been inherited by Pakistan, the Successor State of British India. The Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) of Pakistan are located in the east of the Durand Line and comprise of seven Agencies and six FRs (Frontier Regions). The FATA has passed through many ups and down in its checkered history. Political, economic, social and judicial developments in FATA were slow compared to other parts of the Pakistan. Political Agent held enormous powers, Maliki system produced a privileged class, literacy rate remained low, health facilities were poor, infrastructure remained fractured and industrialization developed with snail`s pace. Rampant corruption, pervasive poverty and violence kept the people backward and law and order was kept intact through FCR (Frontier Crimes Regulation). In 1996 Pakistan decided to introduce adult franchise in the Tribal Areas for the elections held in 1997. The post 9/11 developments in the region influenced the north western Pakistan, particularly FATA. Despite financial assistance and international support for peace, democracy and development the clash of interests and regional militancy placed the tribal areas in the line of fire. The fallout of Afghanistan`s imbroglio also set FATA ablaze. It has become flash point in the global war against terrorism. Though the region suffered yet it has also given an opportunity to the people of FATA to develop. The paper underpins the measures adopted by the government to restore peace and also explores ways and means to further develop the areas under focus.