Conflict Resolution Zhob

There are two major channels for conflict resolution in the district. One is the government channel and the other is tribal. The government channel can work through the Political Agent, the Assistant PA, Assistant Commissioners, Tehsildars, etc. The role of the Additional District and Session Judge in the settlement of a conflict is nominal. The role of the Political Agent in conflict resolution is bigger than that of other district magistrates, because of the PA’s control over funds and concessions for tribes. He can mobilise a number of sources, including the interference of notables, MPA and tribesmen, to settle a dispute.

 

The traditional tribal channel however has proved to be more effective in conflict resolution than the government channel. The previous "Jirga" system was more effective. The Jirga was a traditional system of justice which was actively practised in Balochistan to settle legal cases and disputes concerning law and order. The system, in practice since British rule, was modified under the Special Provision Ordinance (Criminal Provisions 11) of 1968 to make it more convenient for justice. The system was abolished in 1991. The government however still forms informal Jirgas (comprising notables etc) for conflict resolution, as they have proven to be very effective. In this case government lets the Jirga decide on the matter and adopts its proposed solution. A small Jirga can be formed by the Political Agent with the consultation of the notables of the tribes involved in the dispute to settle a problem. A Jirga at higher level may need the approval of the Commissioner or higher authorities. A Jirga is needed in the settlement of a number of tribal disputes in the district. In case of the settlement of a inter-tribal conflict, a solution can be reached by mobilising the Jirga of both tribes.

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