Version imprimableA PARLIAMENTARY committee has authorised the military leadership to hold talks with the newly energised Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan, a group that has mercilessly butchered tens of thousands of Pakistani civilians and soldiers. This cowardly and shameful abdication of responsibility suggests a rubber-stamp parliament that is good for naught but seeking perks and privileges for its members.
Direct negotiation between the army and terrorist groups is nothing new but has never produced results. In May 2004, an agreement was signed in Shakai with tribal militant leader Nek Mohammad of South Waziristan. This called for stopping attacks on Pakistani security forces and government property. In return, the state would pay compensation and release prisoners. De-weaponisation was not mentioned.
The Shakai agreement lasted 50 days. Only days after signing, Nek Mohammad declared in a radio interview that no treaty could stop him from hosting the Chechen jihadists and Al Qaeda then at war with Pakistani forces. Terrorist activities resumed. Nek was killed by a US Predator drone on 18 June, 2004, the first missile attack on Pakistani soil.
Listing the failed agreements of the last 20 years
