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Demonising Muslims
The communalist nature of the Indian PM, Narendra Modi, has reached an alarming level, with using hateful remarks and tactics to gain political advantage in the election. The recent election campaign launched by BJP has sparked outrage and condemnation for their deliberate attempts to demonize the Muslim community and spread hate speech across the country. The repeated narrative of Modi is only maligning Muslims and keeping his political workers overenthusiastic, swayed by election fury.
The right wing political entity (BJP) wishes to bulldoze the second-largest population group in a bid to score brownie points to win the election. It is unacceptable that a political party in a democratic society is actively promoting campaigns that target a specific religious community.
But since it is the blue-eyed, bear-hugger Modi of a roaring economy, the international community seems intent on turning a deaf war to his nauseating display of hate speeches, which go against the principles of democracy and secularism which was the foundation stone of India, envisaged by the Congress leaders Mahatma Gandhi, Jawahir Lal Nehru and Maulana Azad.
It is the responsibility of human rights activists to protect the Indian Muslims from aggressive policies of the Indian PM and other leaders of his party. It is the collective responsibility of rulers of Muslim countries to stand against discrimination and to protect democratic rights of Muslims and all other communities as well.
The BJP’s divisive tactics have the potential to incite violence against Muslim communities as seen in the past where such hate speech has led to attacks and discrimination against minority groups.
QAZI JAMSHED SIDDIQUI
Lahore
Weeping waters
The Soan River, once a celebrated waterway that sustained the ancient Soan valley civilization, has regrettably deteriorated to a concerning state of pollution. The rain-fed river originating from the foothills of Patriata, provides water to the Simbli Dam, a water reservoir for Islamabad. Near Pharwala Fort it cuts through a high mountain range known as the Soan cut and flows for 250 km before merging into the Indus at Makhad.
The Soan Valley Civilization is the earliest known prehistoric civilization in Pakistan, serving as the birthplace of Stone Age civilization in the region. Some relics reveal 500,000 years old civilization, which thrived along the Soan River, depicting the historical significance of the river.
However, utter negligence on behalf of environmental protection and development authorities has rendered the once mighty river a mere stream, laden with plastic waste and refuse. The repugnant stench that penetrates the vicinity is a nuisance for the residents. However, to begin with, it is mankind that has deprived nature of its charms. There is an urgent need to install filtration plants and in the long run, devise a proper system of drainage, especially in the suburban areas of Bani Gala and Bara Kahu.
Poor water quality makes the river unsafe for irrigation; increasing the risk of diseases. I, myself, being the inhabitant of DHA-4 request the authorities to take prompt action and alleviate water pollution in the area. Furthermore, every spell of heavy rainfall exposes the residents in the proximity to the risk of flooding which also needs to be addressed.
Verily, in addition to being a valuable water source, the scenic beauty of the stream cascading through the Potohar Plateau is also mesmerising. If properly managed, the banks of the river can provide a pacifying leisure spot amongst the hustle and bustle of the densely populated area. With adequate and wholehearted effort, perhaps it may gain a slight resemblance to the Ponte Vecchio, Florence.
MOMINA SIDDIQUI
Islamabad
Democracy’s struggle
The evolution of democracy in Pakistan has been a dilemma since its inception. Experts have highlighted substantial reasons that undermine democratic norms in Pakistan. Firstly, personalized politics is one of the biggest threats to democracy.
According to Shakespeare, “Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them.” Although Shakespeare is no longer with us, even after centuries, his saying rings true in the case of Pakistan. Dynastic politics is common in the country, with different powerful elites vying for power and influence, often neglecting the needs of the majority.
Secondly, threats and censorship on civil society and media are considered impediments on the path to democracy. Both platforms are responsible for advocating human rights and accountability. Threatening them undermines the basic principle of democracy: “freedom of expression.” Lastly, weak institutions and military intervention further exacerbate the situation. Thus, one can conclude that there is a dire need for action to illuminate the path of democracy.
MARIA ZULFIQAR
Islamabad
