The Pashtuns of Pakistan have long served as the country’s first line of defence, standing as an iron wall against invasions and intrusions from across the Pak–Afghan border. Their bravery, loyalty, and historic sacrifices define the strength of this nation. For decades, the hostile forces have attempted to create a wedge between this patriotic community and the state. In recent years, the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) has unfortunately emerged as a platform exploited to sow distrust among Pashtun youth. Although the movement has failed to attract broad support, its rhetoric continues to mislead sections of unemployed youth and promote divisive narratives against Pakistan and its institutions. Through inflammatory statements, selective activism, and incendiary speeches, PTM has attempted to generate resentment not only among Pashtuns but also among other communities of Pakistan. Its narrative is rooted in narrow sub-nationalism rather than the inclusive, nationalistic ethos that Pakistan stands upon. Allowing such elements to flourish risks the emergence of similar movements in other provinces, weakening national cohesion.
A recent example of PTM’s provocations was witnessed during a peace Jirga held in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where PTM members refused to stand for Pakistan’s national anthem. Thiswidely condemnable act is being viewed as a calculated insult to national sovereignty and a deliberate attempt to undermine state authority. The Aman Jirga was intended as a symbol of unity, dialogue, and reconciliation, yet PTM tried to politicize the gathering to promote ethnic polarization. No democratic right permits disrespect for national symbols. The anthem represents the collective sacrifices of over 94,000 Pakistanis, among them thousands of Pashtuns, who laid down their lives fighting terrorism. Disregarding these symbols dishonours the martyrs who defended this nation.Pashtuns occupy central roles in Pakistan’s political, military, and administrative spheres, enjoying representation unmatched by many ethnic groups worldwide. PTM’s claims of marginalization are therefore fabricated tools to stoke ethnic resentment. Its narrative closely aligns with talking points amplified by hostile intelligence networks, including RAW and GDI, which exploit PTM’s platform to weaken Pakistan’s unity and bolster anti-state propaganda. People like Noorullah Tareen and Hanif Pashteen have repeatedly indulged in actions which undermine the state. Their refusal to acknowledge the inclusive agenda of the KP Peace Jirga, which focused on development, trade facilitation, and governance reforms, further exposes their politicized motives. Glorification of terrorists and distorting the facts regarding counter-terrorism operations by some of the elements of this group echoed propagated by hostile Afghan elements and Indian media. Such rhetoric does not reflect courage, rather reflects contempt and deliberate provocation aimed at creating internal discord.PTM’s provocative acts gained traction on foreign-sponsored social media networks dedicated to manipulating ethnic narratives and maligning the security institutions of Pakistan. Their criticism of counter-terrorism efforts of security forces directly benefits terrorist groups that have inflicted immense suffering on Pashtun-majority areas.
The people of KP have rejected terrorism with unmatched resilience. PTM’s divisive rhetoric risks reversing these gains, fuel hostility at a time when unity is most needed. Respect for national symbols is not blind obedience; rather a recognition of the collective identity that binds entire Pakistantogether.Ironically, PTM’s narrative contradicts the history, culture, and values of the Pashtun people. Pashtuns have always been known for their strategic thinking, hospitality, honour, and loyalty to the state. They are one of Pakistan’s most trusted communities and have contributed to nation-building in every field. Their patriotism flows through generations.The British historian Edward E. Oliver, in Across the Border or Pathan and Baloch, described the Pashtun as “brave to rashness… endowed with wonderful endurance.” Throughout history, Pashtuns have stood firm against global powers: Tsarist Russia, British colonial rule, the Soviet invasion, and later the American-led intervention in Afghanistan. During the Afghan-Soviet war (1979–1989), Pakistani Pashtuns played a critical role in resisting Soviet expansion while generously hosting millions of Afghan refugees.
Today, as the nation consolidates peace after decades of conflict, attempts to misguide Pashtun youth through sun-nationalistic narratives are deeply concerning. With the merger of former FATA into Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and ongoing development projects, there is no justification for movements that threaten unity and undermine national sacrifices.Equally troubling is PTM’s growing network of ethnic-based contacts with expatriate Afghans in Europe and US. The assault on the Pakistani Consulate in Frankfurt in July 2024where Afghan-origin youth scaled the building and removed the Pakistani flagis a glaring example. Similar anti-Pakistan demonstrations by Afghan nationals displaying PTM insignia have been reported across Europe and North America.
As a nation, let’s reject ethnic and sub-nationalist agendas that threaten national cohesion. The youth must be guided towards constructive roles through employment opportunities, education and inclusion, not left vulnerable to be manipulated by divisive organizations. The state must continue developing policies that strengthen national harmony and prevent exploitation of youth by internal and external conspirators.
— The writer is Professor of Politics and IR at International Islamic University, Islamabad.
