LANDI KOTAL (Dunya News) - In Landi Kotal, a tree has become the center of a strange historical story that continues to fascinate locals and visitors alike, linking it to the era of British colonial rule.
Located in the historic cantonment area of Landi Kotal, the tree appears ordinary at first glance, but its story is tied to an unusual incident from the past that still draws public attention.
A board installed by the administration on the tree carries a message stating: “I have been arrested. During the British era, a drunk military officer one evening felt that I was moving from my original place, after which he ordered my arrest, and since then I have been in custody.”
According to local tourist Abu Zar Afridi, this incident is considered one of the unusual tales from the British era that has become part of the region’s historical narrative. He said the tree still stands in the same condition, as if time has stopped there.
Over time, the story has taken the shape of a historical legend rather than a verified fact. Although the walnut tree no longer bears fruit, it remains an interesting attraction for tourists and locals.
Local resident Sanaullah (Landi Kotal resident) said that if the tree has completed its “punishment,” it should now be freed, adding that it still symbolizes colonial injustice.
Locals believe the tree represents the unfair laws of the British era and serves as a reminder for future generations about colonial rule in the subcontinent.
The incident dates back to a time when resistance against British rule was ongoing across the Indian subcontinent and conflict had begun in tribal areas. During that period, strict regulations such as the Frontier Crimes Regulation were enforced.
Under this system, authorities could punish an entire family or tribe for the crime of an individual. However, in this case, the tree had no crime, no family, and no tribe, yet it became an unusual symbol of colonial authority, preserved by locals as part of history.