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.
Political restraint and tolerance
It is indeed an irony that as we approached yet another 23rd March, battle lines for confrontation are being drawn, instead of exercising restraint, tolerance and respect for each other, with a commitment to uphold rule of law. It is the sanctity of the constitution and submission to it by individuals, groups and institutions, which alone can guarantee restoration of the modern democratic welfare state, with a functioning economy that Jinnah envisioned.
The spirit that motivated the political struggle for creation of Pakistan must be revived, instead of authoritarianism that this country has been hostage to for decades since 1958, with brief intervals of democratic rule. Pakistan’s judiciary must work within the confines of the constitution and give judgments based on it, even if “heavens were to fall”. They have no role to venture in populism. Parliament alone has the right to legislate and amend the constitution, and this must never be infringed upon by any other institution.
Pakistan today desperately needs statesmen like Nawabzada Nasrullah who can play a role in diffusing this highly polarized political environment, through compromise by individuals, without resorting to banning political parties, so that democracy can function and the economy revives. Unfortunately, repetitive supra-constitutional interventions and banning politicians of repute through EBDO etc, in 1959, has only promoted extremism, a direct consequence of “divide and rule strategy” adopted by dictators to prevent popular uprising for restoration of democracy.
Individuals on both sides of the political divide, including Imran Khan, Maryam Nawaz etc., must take a step back and refrain from polarizing an already charged environment. The Elite Capture of our economy must be rescinded and replaced with a functional economy where the state collects revenues through direct taxation on all sources of commercial enterprises.
While it may not be the business of the state to do business, it is also not the business of state funded institutions to be involved in commercial ventures and cartels. Emphasis should be on investment in science and technology to attain an economy which boosts exports, promotes healthy competition and reduces reliance on imports. The agricultural yields of yesteryears must be revived to ensure essential food self-sufficiency.
MALIK TARIQ ALI
Lahore
Plastic pollution
I am going to express my concern about the increasing number of plastic waste in our society. Despite the widespread awareness about the environmental impact of plastic, it continues to be a major contributor to pollution and ecological damage.
Plastic pollution is harmful to wildlife and marine creatures. Plastic waste can take hundreds of years to decompose, leading to long-term pollution of our oceans, rivers and landfills. In addition, plastic waste can also release harmful chemicals into the environment, posing a threat to human health.
It is time that we take serious action to reduce plastic waste. This can start with small changes in our daily lives, such as bringing reusable bags to the grocery store and avoiding single-use plastic products. However, more significant change must also come from government and industry. We need legislation that encourages the reduction of plastic waste, as well as investment in alternative materials and recycling infrastructure.
As consumers, we also have the power to demand change from companies. We can choose to support businesses that prioritize sustainability and responsible production practices. By choosing to buy from these companies and boycotting those that contribute to plastic pollution, we can send a powerful message that environmental responsibility is a priority. In conclusion, plastic pollution is a serious issue that requires action from all of us. By making small changes in our lifestyle and demanding change from businesses and government, we can work towards a cleaner, healthier environment for ourselves and future generations.
ABDUL RAHMAN
Karachi
Financial scams
Financial scams in Pakistan are increasing day by day. Many people are robbed of their money everyday by scammers through different methods. The conventional banking system has benefited the masses for several generations. It provides people with a new way to handle their finances. However, opening a conventional bank account typically takes several days. Moreover, less flexibility and no quick access to bank accounts created problems in rapid transactions and easy management of various financial deals.
With the arrival of technology, the banking system across the world has also been revolutionised. Various banking channels have been introduced that allow quick and secure transactions across the countries. It has also benefited the trade cooperation between countries on a larger scale. For small-scale buyers, sellers and users, an advanced banking system is a blessing. Although, with every technological advancement, there are negative effect as well – and so has been the case with the modern banking system. It has created new ways for scams and fraudulent dealings where people are robbed of their money online through various tricks.
According to Banking Mohtasib Pakistan, it received more than 3000 complaints of financial scams in 2021, which marked a 46% increase from the year 2020. In 2022, Banking Mohtasib Pakistan has registered nearly 19,000 complaints each year, the ratio has been rising and people are being scammed out of money. In most cases, scammers convince their targets that they could win a fortune if they follow certain steps. In some cases, they represent himself as bankers or financial advisors and ask account holders about sensitive information in relation to their bank accounts.
TARIQ HUSSAIN
Karachi
Box letter
Unemployment
I would like to bring to the attention of authorities through your esteemed newspaper towards the leading social issue of our country which is unemployment. As per the growing population of Pakistan more and more people are willing to do jobs or start a career.
Due to the rising graph of unemployment opportunities, the people, especially educated ones, are unable to get employment. Unemployment and not having money creates tension and depression in people to how they will afford their liabilities and necessities leading to an increased suicidal rate among the people. The people in authority ought to take concrete and tangible steps for the redressal of the issue.
AREEB AKHTER
Karachi
