Khyber Pakhtunkhwa would not allow military operations in the province as previous counterterrorism actions made them homeless, provincial chief minister Ali Amin Gandapur said on Friday.

“The slaves of America have imposed wrong policies on the Pashtun, and the experiences of the rulers have caused us harm,” he said in his address to the Bannu Aman Committee in the district. “We will make our own decisions, and we will seize our rights rather than just demanding them.”

The district observed a complete shutter-down strike on Friday. Gandapur’s address came a day after the provincial apex committee approved all demands of the peace committee.

The police would conduct “indiscriminate operations” against the offices of armed groups, according to the statement. The military institutions have clarified that there “is no ongoing operation” in the province and the police and Counter-Terrorism Department would take action against terrorist elements. In areas near the border where the police cannot operate, the assistance of the military would be sought.

“All 16 demands of the Bannu jirga have been accepted. I have the signed document, but there are elements within and outside the government who distort everything,” Gandapur said and added that the police and the local administration would raid the suspected locations and resolve the matter.

The KP chief minister added that the Pashtun have played an important role in liberating Pakistan and their role was crucial even in the 1965 war. “We have been loyal to the country with our heart, soul, and resources. Sacrifice is in our blood and we will render sacrifices for the country.”

He stated that armed groups have no place in the province. “My people are my responsibility, the honour of the people is my honour and I won’t let anyone lay a hand on them,” Gandapur said.

The KP chief minister stated that strong action would be taken against drug dealers.

The provincial government has made combating the drug trade a priority, recognising its negative impact on the social fabric and well-being of communities.