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.
Harassment in university
From student suppression to harassment to drug issues, Pakistani universities seem to have everything but education. Just a few days back, Islamia University Bahawalpur (IUB) hit headlines, not for academic achievement or faculty dedication but for drug sale and sexual exploitation. Some university officials, including the chief security officer, have been reportedly caught involved in the sale of narcotics. According to investigation officers, the security officer also had sexually explicit photos and videos on his mobile phone.
A special report by the police further clarified that it was, in fact, a group of teachers that was involved in the sexual exploitation of female teachers and students at the university. How are our country’s students supposed to feel safe, protected and academically and creatively challenged in an environment where they are either policed for their political and social thoughts or exploited or peddled drugs by the very people that are supposed to teach them, nurture them, mentor them?
Incidents like this will make more parents sceptical of sending their girls to colleges and universities. The alarmingly growing popularity of drugs among our students has been a cause for concern for some time now. This is what makes the IUB scandal even more shocking, that some teachers also being reported involved in the sale of drugs. The case of IUB proves that the alarm about drugs on campus is very real and very dangerous.
It has even heard of drugs being popular among high school and middle school students. The parliamentary committee which is looking into this must do a thorough and honest job. What we do know is that one of the best ways to counter drug use is to provide plenty of education to young people about their ill effects.
Iceland, which had a huge alcohol and drug abuse problem, was able to become a country with an almost zero drug presence at educational institutions by taking measures that introduced the youth to a host of healthy activities which could occupy their time. Setting up sports camps and introducing more community entertainment, art and literature could help young people use up their energy in ways other than drug abuse. Constitution of Judicial Commission is a timely and right step to probe this shameful incident.
MUNAWAR SIDDIQUI
Lahore
Reminiscing national sport
Hockey has always held a special place in the hearts of Pakistanis and the country witnessed a golden era in the sport from the 1950s to the 1990s. This period was marked by a glorious journey of dominance and triumph on the international stage, solidifying Pakistan’s reputation as a hockey powerhouse.
I remember when my father told me a number of stories that describe the true joy they had because of Pakistan’s Hockey team, listening to him sometimes made me feel like missing that glorious era of Pakistan hockey with all my heart. The golden years were a time of sheer brilliance and unmatched dominance on the international stage. Watching the national team showcase their extraordinary talent and bring home Olympic gold medals filled everyone with immense pride as a Pakistani and a hockey enthusiast.
The unforgettable clashes between Pakistan and India were the epitome of sportsmanship and rivalry igniting a passionate fire in the hearts of fans. Those thrilling encounters united the nation and the anticipation leading up to each match was electrifying.
The legendary players of that era, like Islahuddin Siddique, Shahbaz Ahmed and Hasan Sardar, displayed unparalleled skills that left spectators in awe. Their dedication to the sport and unwavering determination to succeed were truly inspiring. As I look back on those unforgettable moments, I can’t help but reminisce about the unity and excitement that surrounded Pakistan’s hockey successes. It was a time when the nation rallied behind its team, cheering them on with unwavering support.
UNZILA TAHIR HUDA
Karachi
Feudalism in Sindh’s politics
As I set out to explore the enigmatic labyrinth of feudalism in Sindh, Pakistan, I was confronted with a rich tapestry of historical roots and deep-seated beliefs that have shaped the province’s political landscape for centuries. The feudal lords, known as Waderas, have existed in this region since time immemorial. This feudal system of Sindh has both critics and supporters. Through the historical and critical analysis of the political history of Sindh, one can explore whether feudalism has been a source of empowerment for the people or an impediment.
Feudalism in Sindh follows deep archaic roots. The feudal lords in Sindh existed from the time immemorial, but the era of British Colonialism could be termed as the aggravating one. The feudalism before that era did not create a proper class difference, but this era created a Marxist-based class difference of bourgeoisie and proletariat. In this era, land ownership was concentrated in the hands of a few powerful landlords. Overtime, this system entrenched the roots of present-day feudalism in Sindh and created a control of the feudal elite over vast agricultural lands, fostering a hierarchical society with a limited concentration of wealth and power.
Proponents of feudalism argue that the system provides a sense of social order and stability. They claim that the feudal lords or Waderas, act as the patrons of their people by supporting their communities through philanthropic initiatives such as building hospitals, mosques, schools or charity. Also, they argue that the historical feudal justice system allows quick justice and resolution of conflict which helps in maintaining peace as well as law and order, especially in rural areas where institutional powers might be limited.
SHAHBAZ RAJPER
Sindh
Box letter
Corruption in Pakistan
Corruption refers to a form of criminality or dishonesty. It includes bribery and lying to the people and breaking their trust. Unfortunately, according to the CPI Index by Transparency International, Pakistan ranks 140th out of 180 countries. It occurs at various levels in our country. From the general public to political leaders and big businessmen – everyone is contributing to this problem and making it bigger by the day. There may hardly be a person in our country who may not have adopted corrupt means to further his interests. Even if it is the smallest act of corruption such as bribing the traffic police for breaking traffic rules though it is still wrong but it is a stepping stone for bigger acts of corruption. The government imposes higher taxes on the people to burden the locals who can’t meet their basic needs. They don’t care about the country and the people living in it. Each individual must act responsibly and stop such acts to contribute their bit towards eliminating corruption. The government must keep a check on such illicit activities to overcome this problem and to shape the positive image of our beloved country-Pakistan on the map of the world.
JAWERIA AARA
Hyderabad
