Peshawar bans private jirgas, warns hotels of immediate closure

Peshawar police have imposed a ban on private jirgas across the city, warning organisers and venue owners of strict legal action for violating the order.

Capital City Police Officer (CCPO) Dr Mian Saeed Ahmad confirmed the decision, saying private dispute-resolution gatherings would no longer be allowed at hotels, wedding halls or other private venues.

He warned that organisers would face legal proceedings, while hotels and wedding halls found hosting such gatherings could be sealed.

Why have Peshawar police banned private jirgas?

According to a report published by Dawn, the decision follows several complaints and incidents involving private jirgas.

Police officials said these gatherings often promote gun culture, involve hefty charges and sometimes result in clashes between disputing parties.

The CCPO also expressed concern that some private jirgas had turned into commercial activities, placing additional financial pressure on people seeking dispute resolution.

Police offer an alternative for settling disputes

The police have highlighted the role of government-established Dispute Resolution Committees (DRCs), which settle disputes under police supervision without charging the parties.

Officials said these committees operate independently and provide a safer alternative to privately organised jirgas.

Controversial jirga decisions raise concerns

The announcement also comes amid concerns over controversial jirga settlements.

In June 2026, police arrested three suspects and several jirga members in Peshawar's Badaber area over an alleged gang rape case. A local jirga had reportedly proposed the marriage of one accused to the victim and financial compensation to her father.