The Challenges Faced by Pashtoons: Manzoor Pashteen, the Concept of Greater Afghanistan, and the Vision of Pakhtunistan.
Enjoy reading Dawar Times Magazines offline, click below!
Manzoor Pashteen is a brave young leader advocating for the rights of the Pashtun people in Pakistan. He founded the Pashtoon Tahafuz Movement (PTM), a peaceful organisation that highlights the suffering, unfair treatment, and challenges that Pashtoons have endured for many years. Known for his iconic red cap, Manzoor travels throughout Pakistan, speaking out for missing individuals, against military actions in tribal regions, and for equal rights for the Pashtoon community.
Pashtuns are a group of people who mainly live in the northwestern regions of Pakistan and the eastern parts of Afghanistan. They have a rich history, a vibrant culture, and strong tribal traditions. Although they have made significant contributions to the history of both nations, they have frequently been overlooked and mistreated.
The concept of Greater Afghanistan or Pakhtunistan has roots in history. When the British departed from the Indian subcontinent in 1947, the Durand Line (a border established by the British between Afghanistan and Pakistan) turned into a significant problem. Numerous Pashtoons on either side of the border felt they were one community, and a few political figures proposed forming a distinct state for Pashtoons named “Pakhtunistan”. Additionally, some envisioned a “Greater Afghanistan” that would include all Pashtun regions from Pakistan joining Afghanistan.
But this idea never came true. Most Pashtuns in Pakistan remained loyal to their country, and many of them even served in the army and politics. However, the feeling of being mistreated never disappeared. Military actions in tribal regions, forced disappearances, and not enough development kept the anger growing.
Manzoor Pashteen’s PTM became a platform for peaceful demands. He does not support violence or separation from Pakistan. Instead, he believes in using his voice and engaging in peaceful protest to demand justice. PTM has requested that the military stop treating tribal Pashtoons like suspects, that missing persons be brought to court, and that landmines be removed from former conflict zones.
Sadly, instead of hearing them out, the government has frequently silenced the voice of PTM. Manzoor and other PTM leaders have faced multiple arrests. Their rallies are occasionally prohibited or interrupted. Yet, the movement continues to be well-liked by young Pashtuns who are fed up with being treated like second-class citizens in their homeland.
The main problem isn’t about creating a new country or splitting Pakistan. It’s really about ensuring that the Pashtoon people get their fundamental rights: safety, justice, education, healthcare, and the freedom to express themselves. Pashtoons are proud to be Pakistanis, but they seek equal treatment, respect for their culture, and a life free from fear.
Manzoor Pashteen represents a generation of Pashtuns who are not afraid to speak the truth. They do not ask for war or separation; they ask for peace, justice, and dignity. Listening to them with open hearts and minds is the only way forward for a united and stronger Pakistan.
