SWAT: Tensions have escalated in parts of the city as hotel owners and workers voiced strong protests against what they describe as systemic injustice and harassment by both government authorities and local police while . The unrest comes amid increasing complaints of wrongful detentions, targeting of small business owners, and aggressive crackdowns on informal hospitality services that primarily serve low-income residents.
According to eyewitnesses and several hotel owners, law enforcement agencies have been conducting sudden raids, allegedly without warrants, and detaining individuals without proper charges. “We are not criminals.We are trying to earn an honest living,” said one frustrated hotel owner during an exclusive conversation with Pakhtun Digital. He added that many of the arrested individuals had no connection to any illegal activity and were simply working to support their families. The grievances go beyond police actions. Protesters claim that recent government policies disproportionately affect small businesses and the working class. “While the elite continue to operate without consequences, it’s the poor and struggling who are constantly punished,” said another hotel worker, who asked to remain anonymous for fear of retaliation.
They said that the wedding hall owned by PTI MNA Saleem Rehman was not touched by the administration and only those are being targeted who have no political affiliation.Similarly, the Hotel of Ameer Muqam is still intact, and there are a lot of bodyguards to protect his property. Locals allege that there is open discrimination as some are being tortured while some are receiving special treatment. This perception has led to growing calls from the community for the government to ensure that the law is applied equally to all, regardless of political affiliation or influence. “The public wants justice, not selective action,” said a resident during a protest. “If one political figure’s illegal construction is being demolished, the same standard must apply to others.”
Authorities have promised that the operation will continue without discrimination. However, residents and activists remain watchful, demanding transparency and consistent enforcement of the law. Reports confirm that several people have already been taken into custody, sparking anger among local communities and civil rights advocates. The protests, though mostly peaceful, reflect growing frustration over what many see as a widening gap between the powerful and the powerless.
Activists are calling for an immediate review of police procedures and for the government to engage in open dialogue with small business owners. “If this continues unchecked, it will only lead to further unrest,” warned a local community leader.
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