by Roheena Ali Shah
The resurgence of sectarian violence in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa’s Kurram District has reignited fears about the threat of extremism in the region. The situation has reached a new low, with terrorists resurfacing their barbaric tactics of beheadings. This alarming trend not only reflects the escalating brutality of such groups but also undermines societal cohesion and underscores the pressing need for decisive action against the forces fuelling such brutality.
A recent incident of desecrating the body of a nomadic traveller after his brutal murder in the violence-hit border district has left people in shock. Reports reveal that the victim’s severed head was displayed in a grotesque and dehumanising manner, showing the appalling depths of cruelty. This tragic event demands an urgent and comprehensive examination of its root causes, the security apparatus and provincial authorities’ utter failure and apathy in curbing such violence, and the implications for the country’s stability and cohesion.
Root causes of sectarian menace
The roots of sectarian violence are deeply intertwined with historical lopsided state policies, grievances of ethno-religious marginalised communities and systemic inequities. Over the years, discriminatory practices and societal polarisation have fostered an environment conducive to the growth of extremist ideologies. The state’s apathy to address people’s basic socio-economic issues have turned diverse regions, such as Kurram, into volatile flashpoints where violence often erupts.
Unresolved disputes over land and resources compound the problem, fuelling mistrust between different tribal groups. The lack of effective mediation mechanisms frequently escalates minor disagreements into major sectarian clashes, leaving communities deeply scarred and divided.
Extremist groups sponsored by imperialist powers have capitalised on societal divisions, leveraging polarising rhetoric to advance their agendas and justify acts of violence. These outfits frequently establish footholds in underdeveloped regions, where poverty, lack of education, and limited opportunities create fertile ground for radicalisation.
While numerous operations and initiatives aim to counter their influence, progress is hindered by inconsistent law enforcement, inadequate resources, and the resilience of these groups’ decentralised networks. Addressing this complex challenge requires a multifaceted approach, targeting both the underlying socio-economic conditions and the mechanisms through which these groups operate.
The persistence of extremist ideologies underscores deficiencies in state policies and strategies. Extremist ideologies often exploit feelings of alienation, injustice, or identity crises. These include a lack of adequate funding for education, and limited access to quality learning opportunities, leaving individuals more susceptible to extremist propaganda. Many school systems fail to address contemporary issues such as inclusivity, tolerance, and critical media literacy. Curricula often lack content that encourages understanding of diverse perspectives.
Culture of impunity
Governance failures and systemic gaps in accountability have significantly contributed to the prevalence of sectarian violence. The inability to effectively prosecute perpetrators has created a culture of impunity, sending the dangerous signal that such acts can occur without consequences. This lack of justice alienates marginalised groups and perpetuates cycles of violence.
In many cases, law enforcement agencies intervene only after violence has erupted, reflecting a reactive rather than proactive approach. Strengthening institutional capacity to anticipate and prevent such incidents is essential for restoring public trust and ensuring long-term peace.
Breaking the cycle of violence
A multi-pronged approach as well as sustained and coordinated efforts are required to disrupt the cycle of violence and address extremism in Kurram and other regions. It is imperative to address the ideological roots of extremism by combining education reforms with economic opportunities, social inclusion policies, and counter-narratives to extremist propaganda.
The government must prioritise investments in education infrastructure, teacher training, and access to modern resources to cultivate an informed and resilient population. Overhauling the curriculum that emphasises critical thinking, ethical reasoning, tolerance, mutual respect, and the shared history of Pakistan’s diverse communities can dismantle prejudices and help build a more tolerant society.
Inclusivity and equality
A critical step toward addressing sectarian violence is the adoption of a governance model that guarantees equal rights and protections for all citizens, irrespective of their faith, identity or tribal affiliation. By promoting inclusivity and safeguarding the rights of all communities, the state can foster a sense of unity and shared purpose.
Simultaneously, addressing socioeconomic challenges in conflict-prone areas is crucial. Chronic underdevelopment, and limited access to education, healthcare, and livelihoods create fertile ground for extremist exploitation.
Political, religious, cultural, and community leaders play pivotal roles in countering sectarianism. Initiatives that promote interfaith and inter-community dialogue can bridge divides and foster mutual understanding, advocate for peace and coexistence, challenge narratives of hate.

Roheena Ali Shah is a gender expert and scholar. She contributes essays on various topic to High Asia Herald regularly.