ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhary has pledged a transparent investigation into mineral licences issued in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa during Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-led provincial governments.
The investigation comes amid growing political controversy over the allocation of the province’s mineral resources and allegations concerning their ownership and control.
The federal government has maintained that emergency measures in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa aim to address terrorism and security challenges rather than take control of the province’s mineral wealth.
According to official figures shared by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had 482 mineral licences or titles in 2010. The number increased to 1,762 by 2020 and reached 3,962 in February 2024. The total reportedly stands at 4,917.
Asif has argued that the figures demonstrate a significant increase in licensing during PTI’s tenure. He has also rejected allegations that military institutions seek to control the province’s mineral resources.
Meanwhile, critics have raised concerns about provincial autonomy and the possible implications of emergency measures for resource management.
The proposed transparent investigation is expected to draw attention to licensing decisions, regulatory oversight and accountability in the mining sector.
The controversy has intensified following the imposition of emergency and governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which Parliament approved on October 15.
A comprehensive examination of official records could help clarify how licences were awarded and whether the process complied with relevant laws and regulations.
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