Report notes merged districts remain epicenter of violence and civilians continue to bear the brunt of insecurity
At least 22 militants were killed, while 6 soldiers embraced martyrdom on operations in various parts of KP. archive photo
LAHORE:
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security and human rights situation in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, highlighting a growing climate of fear, lawlessness and erosion of civil authority in the province.
In its latest investigative report titled Caught in the Crossfire, the HRCP reveals that almost two-thirds of all reported terrorist attacks in Pakistan in 2025 took place in KP, mainly targeting security forces and law enforcement agencies.
The report notes that the merged districts remain the epicenter of violence, where civilians continue to bear the brunt of insecurity, forced displacement and limited access to justice.
The fact-finding mission observed that civilian casualties and intelligence-led operations allegedly conducted without civilian oversight have become commonplace, while police and local administrators are increasingly excluded from key decisions regarding public order.
According to HRCP, testimonies from affected communities reveal growing frustration with arbitrary detentions, the continued operation of internment centers established under the Actions (In Aid of the Civil Power) Order, 2019, and the continued practice of enforced disappearances. Journalists who cover these issues, the report adds, face censorship, threats and targeted attacks, further undermining transparency and freedom of expression. Political activists, tribal elders and peace advocates have also been targeted, reinforcing feelings of insecurity and mistrust.
The report also highlights unresolved sectarian and tribal tensions in Kurram, disruption to livelihoods due to prolonged road closures and widespread public concern over the governance of mining and development funds in the province.
