Media bluff about Chitral -letter
This is with reference to a 'CBS News' report about Chitral as refered to in your esteemed publication.
I can not believe Daniel Benjamin of the Brookings Institute, can be so irresponsible in writing the news story. I am not concerned with other part of the news but saying that, "Chitral is a remote, rugged area governed by tribes that will not allow even the Pakistani army to operate there", is a baseless statement and itself is a news for the people of Chitral.
In Chitral there is no any tribe, it is not like Noth Waziristan Or Kurum or Khyber agency. Chitral is a settled district, well under the control of Army and Police. There is nor was any tribal system existing in Chitral. it is surprising that a responsible reporter without any investigation reports that in Chitral there is tribal system and even an army can not go there. If the 'CBS News' is based on such incorrect reports it is indeed a pity.
I hope 'CBS News' will investigate the matter and ask the writer to clarify his statement. Chitral is a most peaceful district in Pakistan, it has the lowest crime rate in the country and highest literacy rate in the province (over 45%). Chitralis are peace loving people and never carry Kalashnikovs and other rifles. a few people have shot guns for duck shooting, as it is an old tradition of Chitral. I hope the CBS News would clarify their position on this report after ascertaining the facts.
Dr Khalil Zhuguroo
Dawashish Zhugoor,Chitral.
http://www.chitralnews.com/LT069.htm