Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has said decisions on the province’s security policy will be made in Islamabad rather than Kabul, ruling out negotiations with armed groups fighting against the state.
Speaking at a security briefing in Peshawar on Sunday, Kundi supported intelligence-based operations to restore peace across the province. He said the provincial government had requested Rs. 160 billion from the federal government to meet its security requirements, adding that the Centre was backing the demand.
He stressed that lasting development was not possible without ensuring public safety and called for stronger cooperation and trust between police and local communities.
Police to Receive Better Equipment and Pay
Kundi said the provincial police would be provided with modern weapons and ammunition to strengthen their ability to deal with security threats.
He also called for improved salaries and higher financial assistance for families of police personnel killed while performing their duties.
The provincial government has already announced salary increases for police employees and enhanced compensation for families of personnel who lose their lives in the line of duty.
Security Measures Planned Across 34 Districts
Officials presented several proposals to strengthen the province’s security infrastructure, including expanding the Counter Terrorism Department’s operational jurisdiction to all 34 districts.
The plan also includes setting up District Nerve Centres and establishing a Safe City Authority in 10 districts.
Authorities further proposed introducing Smart Front Desks at 406 police stations in major cities. Artificial intelligence-based tools would also be used to respond to misinformation and what officials described as misleading narratives circulating on social media.
The meeting also decided to establish Dispute Resolution Councils and Tribal Liaison Committees across all districts to address local disputes and improve coordination with communities.
Monthly open courts and regular jirgas were also included in the proposed measures to strengthen public engagement and resolve disputes at the local level.
