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LG polls
In a country where political power plays often take precedence over public welfare, the repeated delays of local body’s elections are yet another reminder of the chaotic state of governance. The latest postponement of local government elections in Islamabad by the ECP has raised more questions than answers and despite the critical nature of local governance, refrained from providing a clear explanation, merely citing recent amendments in the law.
The lack of transparency only deepens the perception that these delays are part of a broader strategy to keep opposition forces at bay and maintain a monopoly over decision-making. This may benefit the ruling party in the short term by minimizing opposition, the long-term consequences are devastating. Local governments act as the first point of contact between the state and its citizens, resolving day-to-day issues that larger bodies are often too disconnected to address effectively.
The failure to hold timely local body’s elections undermines the entire system of checks and balances essential to a functioning democracy. Rather than delegating power and allowing institutions to operate independently, political leaders have taken it upon themselves to micromanage everything from street cleaning to drain repairs. Woefully, the political environment in Pakistan has become toxic, with each side more interested in fighting petty battles than working for the country’s collective good. Without local representation, they are left without a voice to address their immediate concerns, from water shortages to infrastructure failures.
Every delay in local government elections exacerbates this suffering. In a time of economic uncertainty and political instability, this neglect only accelerates the country’s downward spiral. All political actors need to commit to the essential act of governance: representing the people and working for their betterment. The time has come for politicians to stop political skirmishes and start building a future for the country.
QAZI JAMSHED SIDDIQUI
Lahore
Sexual violence
SEXUAL violence in Pakistan has reached epidemic proportions, reflecting a deep societal failure. The prevalence of rape, particularly against women and children, is staggering, with reports indicating that at least 11 individuals are raped daily. However, the true scale is likely far worse, as many incidents go unreported due to fear, stigma and the lack of trust in the justice system.
Pakistan’s patriarchal society perpetuates sexual violence by treating women as second-class citizens and expecting silence in the face of abuse. This cultural mindset emboldens perpetrators, while the legal system’s inefficiency and inaction—evidenced by a conviction rate of less than 2% in rape cases—allow many offenders to evade justice. Police often fail to act, investigations are mishandled, and the judiciary is slow, leaving victims without recourse.
The lack of sexual education further exacerbates the problem, leaving children and young adults vulnerable to exploitation. Without knowledge of their rights or how to protect themselves, they become easy targets for predators. The absence of such education ensures the continuation of this cycle of violence, as each generation grows up ill-equipped to challenge harmful norms or safeguard themselves.
The impact of sexual violence is profound and enduring. Victims suffer from severe psychological and emotional trauma, including depression, anxiety, PTSD and suicidal thoughts. Yet, Pakistan’s healthcare and support systems are grossly inadequate, leaving many survivors without the essential care they need to recover.
Recent legislative changes, such as harsher penalties and special courts, represent progress but fall short without proper enforcement. Effective laws require implementation, and Pakistan’s record remains poor.
GULAB UMID
Turbat
Effects of TikTok
I am writing to express my concerns about the impact of TikTok on our society, particularly on the younger generation. While TikTok has become a popular platform for entertainment and self-expression, it has several negative consequences that cannot be ignored.
TikTok’s addictive algorithm and endless scrolling feature have led to a significant decrease in attention span and an increase in screen time among users. Moreover, the platform’s emphasis on likes, followers, and viral content has fostered a culture of competition and comparison, which negatively affects users’ mental health and self-esteem.
Furthermore, TikTok has raised concerns about data privacy, cybersecurity, and the spread of misinformation. The platform’s ownership and ties to China have also sparked worries about censorship and propaganda.
SALEH ALI JAN
Awaran
