Dawn’s Report Sparks Tensions Over Swat Military Land
Published on November 4, 2024, the article suggested that the military was attempting to acquire more land for a new cantonment, allegedly facing resistance from locals. However, security sources clarified that this claim is inaccurate. They explained that the Cantonment Board, in collaboration with the Survey of Pakistan, is simply conducting a routine update of records for existing cantonment land in Kabal, with no new acquisitions involved.
The situation intensified after an October 27 meeting, where some politicians claimed the military was planning to seize civilian land. Security officials pointed out that the military has legally owned 995 acres in Swat since before 1947, and an additional 673 acres was acquired in 2016 for various military purposes.
To address local concerns, military officials and the CEO of the Cantonment Board met with the Deputy Commissioner and local leaders, assuring them there are no expansion plans. Security sources criticized Dawn for spreading unverified claims, warning that such reporting undermines journalistic integrity.