Articles and letters may be edited for the purposes of clarity and space. They are published in good faith with a view to enlightening all the stakeholders. However, the contents of these writings may not necessarily match the views of the newspaper.
Not business as usual
A country with negligible forex reserves, unbridled inflation, unemployment, massive liabilities and debts etc., cannot afford that its paid and elected ruling elite continue with a business as usual attitude. It was expected of political leadership at helm of PPP, PMLN, PTI etc and powerful stakeholders to realize gravity of the crisis and rise above petty political agendas and focus on the economy.
The economic crisis that engulfs Pakistan is accumulative impact of decades of misgovernance, financial indiscipline, conflicts of interest, tax evasion and abuse of power. Former PM Mohammad Khan Junejo tried to enforce austerity starting from the top, but was summarily dismissed in 1988.
Starting from Ayub Khan who derailed Pakistan from Quaid’s vision of a democratic welfare state to a client state, serving foreign agendas, in return for financial benefits like gifting of Ghandhara Motors etc. It has been downhill since then. Not even dismemberment of Pakistan in 1971 could awaken the elite, nor were any lessons learnt.
Pakistan was definitely not created to be a haven for Land Mafia, which has destroyed our forests, converted green agricultural pastures into concrete jungles, reducing Pakistan from agriculture exporting country, to a nation facing acute shortage of wheat, cotton etc.
It is shocking that ruling elite cannot look beyond their kith and kin or their cronies, ignoring the vast talent of this country, who are more qualified to manage the economy, state enterprises etc. It is not just flight of capital, but brain drain which haunts future of this country. Qualified and talented professionals are being forced to abandon the country, whilst few jobs available are doled out to rehabilitate retired bureaucrats civil/uniformed, whom the state pays pension, and medical benefits from cradle to grave, or fake degree holders.
MALIK TARIQ ALI
Lahore
Street crime
The number of street crimes have always been high in our country, but in recent months it has increased to an alarming level. There have been a number of robberies, assaults and other crimes committed on our streets, and it is becoming a serious problem for residents.
Street crimes not only threaten the safety of individuals and their property, but also undermines the sense of security and well-being in our community. It is alarming to see that our streets, which should be safe places for all, have become hotspots for criminal activity.
There are several steps that can be taken to address this problem. Firstly, increasing patrols by police officers in high-crime areas would be beneficial in deterring potential criminals and making residents feel safer. Secondly, installing more streetlights and cameras in these areas would also be a good step in preventing crimes. Additionally, a community-wide program that encourages people to be vigilant and report suspicious activity, would also be a helpful step. Community-based policing, where the police work with community organizations and residents to identify and solve problems, is also a good approach.
It is urged that the city council and law enforcement agencies take immediate action to address this issue. Our community deserves to feel safe on our streets, and it is the responsibility of all of us to make that happen.
AREEBA SAEED
Rawalpindi
Martyr’s Day
Martyr’s Day in India, also known as Shaheed Diwas, is observed on 30 January every year. This day is observed in the memory of Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation. On this day, every Indian pays tribute to all those freedom fighters who have sacrificed their lives for nation.
On 30 January 1948, Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated by Nathuram Godse, a Hindu nationalist who belonged to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh party. On this day, India salutes all her freedom fighters for their sacrifice during the Indian Freedom Movement.
JUBEL D’CRUZ
Mumbai, India
Unemployment
As the unemployment rate in Karachi continues to rise, so too does the rate of crime in the city. This is not a coincidence; there is a clear link between unemployment and crime. Unemployed individuals, especially those who have been out of work for an extended period of time, are more likely to turn to crime as a means of survival. Without a steady source of income, they may be forced to resort to theft, fraud, or other illegal activities to make ends meet. Additionally, unemployment can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair, which can also contribute to an increase in criminal behaviour.
Furthermore, with rising unemployment, crime tends to be higher in areas with a higher concentration of joblessness. It is clear that addressing unemployment must be a priority in order to effectively combat rising crime rate in Karachi. The govt should take steps to create more job opportunities and provide support for those who are struggling to find work. Additionally, community organizations should work together to provide job training, mentorship and other resources to help those who are unemployed find gainful employment. It is time for our leaders to take action and address this issue.
AREEBA KHAN
Karachi
