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Democracy exam
Every election, whether for the National Assembly (NA) or Provincial Assemblies (PAs), is always accompanied by deafening hue and cry, which degrades the national honor of Pakistan among the community of nations in the world.
A foolproof system should be adopted – the prescription of NA/PA seats qualification examination to be conducted by a panel of three Supreme Court judges nominated by the President of the country. Toppers and high scorers should be allotted NA/PA seats. This will end the recurring abasing electoral hue and cry, and the honor of the nation could be saved.
Traditional democracies have failed across the world. One can see the aftermath of the US democracy resembling an exasperating play with cat fights, while Indian democracy is actually and formally dynastic and clannish in character and content. So, the failures of worldwide democracies can be compensated with the political academic exams, I suggested above.
HAMEED SHAHEEN
Rawalpindi
Recent elections
Everyone has the right to a healthy and efficient democracy. But on February 8, 2024, that was indeed not the case. People’s votes were discarded as if they were nothing but mere fingerprints to show support and nothing else. They all claim to be the upholders of righteousness and to follow the law, but it seems the law is even corrupted and has fallen into the wrong hands.
The general election takes place every five years, but that of 2024 was doomed to fail. From the rise of political parties like PTI, MQM, and PMLN, the country erupted into utter chaos. Imagine how someone would feel after knowing they spent the whole day standing in enormous lines to cast their votes, hoping that their voices would be heard, only to find out that it was all for nothing. The election results, which were supposed to be announced the same day, still have not been announced.
Is this an efficient democracy, or is this just concealed dictatorship? We have been silent for too long; our opinions cannot be voiced freely without fear of being held accountable. How is this a democratic country? How do we have freedom of speech according to the Constitution of 1973? This isn’t some sort of folklore; it’s destined to be our reality if we do not stand up and fight back fearlessly. We need to put an end to these illicit affairs so our country, our society and our youth can succeed. Did Quaid-e-Azam fight to his last breath for a country that goes against all his morals?
MOIZ WAHEED
Via email
Development of I-12 sector
I want to draw the attention of Chairman CDA and DG Pakistan Housing Authority (PHA), Islamabad to seriously pay attention to the development of I-/12 sector. The people have invested their hard-earned money in the PHA flats constructed by PHA which are still under construction and roads and sewage developments by CDA do not exist so far. All sectors around this sector have been developed and fully populated.
CDA is treating it as its lowest priority because people own small plots here also. Most of the government servants have owned their flats in the PHA scheme and they are waiting for its completion so that they may shift here.
Most of them have been retired and they have no other accommodation. Last year PHA charged more money against high inflation in construction charges and promised to hand it over in June 2024. But on the ground it seems an empty promise.
On the other hand, ill planned construction is going on in the H-13 sector. My question is why CDA is not paying heed to the development of the I/12 sector where PHA has already constructed a plan for Govt servants and a huge amount of money has been invested in it. On the contrary, we see the B-17 Sector, which is almost near Taxila situated on the other side of the road, has been developed and connected with Margalla Road because it connects with the posh area of Islamabad. I earnestly request the Chairman CDA and DG PHA to join hand for the development and welfare of lower community.
The majority population requires well-managed small housing areas with basic amenities rather than palatial houses in posh sectors. When these schemes are advertised and started, they often aim to lure low-income groups but end up flopping due to prolonged delaying tactics. At such moments, the heads of government institutions should take a stand to complete projects in a timely manner.
Moreover, there is a dire need for a well-connected service road from the back of NUST University up to Sunday Bazaar opposite to G/9. It will help alleviate a lot of vehicular pressure on Sri Nagar Highway.
SHAGUFTA ANSARI
Islamabad
Drug abuse
Drug abuse and addiction have become urgent issues in Balochistan, requiring immediate attention from the administration and government. The rates of substance abuse and addiction continue to pose significant challenges to public health in the region. Consequently, efforts have been concentrated towards prevention, treatment and adopting harm reduction strategies to tackle the escalating opioid epidemic and other drug-related concerns.
Prevention programs aim to educate the population about the dangers associated with drug abuse, promoting awareness, and encouraging individuals to make informed choices regarding substance use. Additionally, treatment options for those struggling with addiction are being expanded. These efforts encompass various approaches, including counselling, therapy and rehabilitation programs, with an emphasis on holistic care to address the individual needs of affected individuals.
In addressing the opioid epidemic, harm reduction strategies have gained prominence. These strategies focus on reducing the negative consequences associated with substance abuse, such as overdose and the spread of diseases. Measures like needle exchange programs and medication-assisted treatment are being implemented to minimize harm and provide support to affected communities.
However, combating drug abuse and addiction requires a comprehensive approach that involves not only the government but also community participation. Collaboration between various entities, such as healthcare professionals, law enforcement agencies and community organizations, is pivotal to effectively address this pressing issue and ensure the well-being of the population in Balochistan.
TALAL RAFIQ RIND
Turbat
Box letter
Addiction challenges
In recent months, there has been a worrying trend of an increase in drug addiction cases in parts of Balochistan, as evidenced by reports and anecdotal evidence. Families are grappling with the devastating consequences of substance abuse and communities are experiencing a surge in related social problems. The challenges of addiction sufferers are made worse by the lack of adequate rehabilitation and treatment facilities. It is imperative that the government and relevant authorities allocate resources and implement targeted measures to address this crisis urgently, collaborating with health professionals, social workers and addiction specialists to develop a comprehensive strategy. To tackle this problem head-on, it is essential to have initiatives like awareness campaigns, support networks and rehabilitation centres. By highlighting the precise dates and instances of the drug addiction surge, I aim to underscore the importance of swift action. Through our collective efforts, I am confident that we can stop the spread of drug addiction and work towards a healthier and safer Balochistan.
ZARA TARIQ
Turbat
