EXPLORING THE HIDDEN CUSTOM OF PUKHTUNWALI WITH REFERENCE TO CONFLICT RESOLUTION AMONG PUKHTUN SOCIETY

Abstract

Purpose of the study: The purpose of the current study is designed to explore the hidden custom among Pukhtuns’ society (Nanawati) as a traditional mechanism for conflict resolution. Methodology: A cross-sectional-based research design was conducted with the sole aim to explore the role of Nanawage in the conflict resolution process among Pukhtun inhabitants in District Dir Lower Khyber Pukhtunkhwa. The potential sampled respondents of the study were household heads particularly elders/ Jirgmar (mediators)/ religious leaders/ and those who practiced and observed Nanawate as the traditional mechanism of conflict resolution from 217 respondents out of 420 Household Head as per Sekaran (2003) criteria through proportional allocation method. Descriptive (univaraite) and inferential statistics (bivaraite analysis) was used to ascertain the level of association among practiced of Nanwati (independent variable) and conflict resolution (dependent variable) through the application of chi-square test statistics. Main Findings: Based on the results Nanawate is widely practiced by Pakhtun inhabitants locally by the virtue of gray beard (Speengeries), religious clergies (Mullas), and family head. Moreover, religion also plays a vital role as a mediator among two party’s conflicts through the perpetuation of Nanawate as it to be believed satisfactory, while not the rejection of Nanawate by someone may consider as damnation on that party who negated the contribution of the religious institution. Applications of this study: Exposing the role of Nanawate in terms of conflict resolution particularly is the order of the day through awareness and social media at the macro (government/ non-government sectors) and micro-level (familial and community level), with the collaboration of by giving a legal status in judiciary system will dethrone the conflicting situation among local inhabitants through the hidden custom of Nanawate were put forward some of the recommendations in light of the present study. Novelty/Originality of this study: This study is designed to explore the hidden custom deliverance of Nanawate (a traditional mechanism) in conflict resolution with reference to Pakhtun’s society through perceptional based study, along with quantitative research designs to measure the association between the practicing of Nanawate in conflict resolution system among Pakhtun’s tribe.