Is Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Future with Afghanistan Feasible?

The question of whether Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) can once again be part of Afghanistan has been a topic of discussion, especially in light of India's propaganda efforts. This possibility is rooted in historical, political, and cultural factors.

Historical Background and Current Status

Historically, KP was indeed part of Afghanistan. The Durand Line, which is now the border between Afghanistan and Pakistan, was only recognized for 100 years by the British. It was drawn in 1893, but ever since then, Afghanistan has not officially accepted it as its border, as it is evident from the ongoing dispute regarding the territory.

Currently, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is a Pakistani province. While some Pashtuns have historically been loyal to Pakistan, the past few decades have seen a systematic effort by Pakistan's deep state to assimilate them into a unified Pakistani culture, often at the expense of their own identities and rights. This process has alienated a significant portion of the Pashtun population.

Cultural and Linguistic Considerations

The cultural and linguistic heritage of Pashtuns in KP is rich and distinct. However, over the years, the use of Pashto in schools and public spaces has diminished, with Urdu increasingly replacing it. This trend has led to concerns about the preservation of Pashtun identity and the potential for a separatist movement.

Feasibility of Reintegration

While the reintegration of KP into Afghanistan is theoretically possible, several factors make this scenario less likely in the immediate future:

current political situation in Afghanistan: Afghanistan's internal disputes and instability make it unlikely that they would be in a position to demand the reintegration of KP. The country is still grappling with political, economic, and social challenges.

security concerns: The security situation in KP is complex and volatile, and a reintegration would need to address these issues. The involvement of different militant groups and the need for a stable and secure environment would be paramount.

administrative and economic considerations: Reintegration would require a smooth transition in terms of administration and economy. The two countries would need to establish mechanisms for cooperation and mutual benefit.

Conclusion and Prospects

While nothing is impossible in this world, the possibility of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa becoming part of Afghanistan again remains highly unlikely in the near future. However, the cultural and historical ties cannot be overlooked, and there should be a continued dialogue to preserve the rights of Pashtuns and other ethnic groups within Pakistan.

Insha Allah, the hope for a more inclusive and equitable future for the Pashtun population remains strong. It is crucial to address the root causes of alienation and work towards a solution that respects and preserves the distinct identities of these communities.