At this critical juncture when the war on terror has entered into its crucial phase, the Pakistani officials have hinted at the possibility of withdrawal of forces from the tribal areas. The Pakistani officials have been blackmailing the US.
According to media reports, the government is analysing whether troop deployment in the tribal areas has achieved its goals sufficiently to facilitate a possible troop reduction, NWFP Governor Ali Jan Orakzai said.
"We are analysing what goals were achieved and whether we can reduce the troops level or not," he told journalists at an iftar-dinner at Frontier House. "We have to analyse what level of force is needed to maintain peace and develop the region," he added.
The governor claimed the deteriorating law and order situation in the tribal areas bordering Afghanistan and NWFP had "links" with Indian consulates near Pakistan's border with Afghanistan. "I have evidence and that is why I am sure of this," he said.
Meanwhile, the report said that a paramilitary soldier and two women were killed and eight others injured on Friday night in clashes between security forces and militants in Khar, the headquarters of Bajaur Agency.
Confirming the casualties, an official said on Saturday the militants fired rockets on the headquarters of the paramilitary Bajaur Scouts and a residential colony at about 1am. A rocket shell landed inside the paramilitary base, killing soldier Syed Waheed. Another soldier, Murad Khan, was injured.
Local people said the security forces retaliated and the exchange of fire continued for some two hours. Residential areas also came under attack.
Local people said a mortar shell hit the house of Mr Amanullah in the Shandai area near Khar, killing two women and injuring the house owner.
Another shell struck the house of Mohammad Zada in the Faza locality, injuring Suhail Khan, Mohammad Zada and the wife of Mr Zeeshan. Two Levies men were also injured.
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