Damage in conflict-hit zones: HRCP for transparency in compensation plan
LAHORE: The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) on Thursday asked the government to inform the people as to how the plan for compensation for damage to houses in the conflict-hit zones of the country is progressing.
A statement of the commission said: “The HRCP welcomes government’s move to start assessment of damage to houses in the conflict-hit northwestern parts of the country with a view to giving compensation to the affected people.
However, while damage to totally or partially destroyed houses has been assessed in Buner, Upper Dir and Swat districts of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and at least estimates of damages calculated in Bajaur and Mohmand regions in Fata, HRCP regrets that the same has not happened in Upper Swat and Lower Dir, Shangla, Hangu and Kohat districts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and South Waziristan, Kurram and Orakzai agencies in Fata.
HRCP cannot emphasise enough the importance of early payment of compensation to the affected people, which is crucial for individuals to return to their communities and rebuild their homes and lives. It would also mitigate anger over damage to property in security forces’ operations and garner support for government action against militants.
HRCP suggests the government consult representatives of the affected people during the decision-making process to ensure their concerns are addressed.
The government must also explain to the people how transparency would be ensured in the distribution of compensation and what mechanisms have been put in place to ensure accountability.”
Source: Dawn
Date:6/25/2010
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