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.
Extremism & communalism
The Jaranwala tragedy is yet another grim reminder of the unchecked extremist and communal narratives and blasphemy allegations that are eating away at our social fabric. But this incident, which is the second event in recent days, highlights how this trend is growing out of control and calls for swift and stern measures to address this phenomenon. Our unfortunately rich history of such tragedies requires more than just the routine response and instead calls for clear messaging and conviction to address the legal, societal and cultural drivers of this menace.
It is encouraging to see that both the main accused have already been arrested in record-time and other immediate measures have come into force, such as the formation of an Inquiry Committee to investigate the incident. However, it is imperative that these measures are further supplemented and a sustained campaign and roadmap to address the issue of blasphemy- related mob violence is pursued. This is a time that requires acts of solidarity and symbolism, where visibility sends a powerful message of condemnation and unity.
Our leaders need to demonstrate that there can be no tolerance for such acts of violence in our society. It is imperative for our national, religious and community leaders to send a clear message that there is no space for such incidents of intolerance by any segment of the society against anyone, particularly against minorities. Those who did this heinous crime must be brought before the court of justice.
What happened in Jaranwala is extremely tragic and intolerable and we must make a resolve to ensure that such injustice is never allowed to take place again. Islam as well as law of land do not allow anyone to award punishment to any mischievous person and culprit. Exemplary punishment should be awarded to the culprits involved in this shameful and tragic act of violence after fair and impartial trial in anti-terrorist courts.
MUNAWAR SIDDIQUI
Lahore
Globalisation
The unhampered flow of commodities, services, technology, education and traditions across the national borders has transfigured the globe socially, politically and economically, except Pakistan. No doubt, the phenomenon has triggered the countries to avail new opportunities; consistently, strive to get prosperity. Being indigenous to Pakistan, it is compulsory for us to get aware of what it has accomplished so far due to globalization and essential benefits our country can procure at present time .
Firstly, having a pivotal location in between resourceful states and populous countries that encompass a population of three billion humans is an unprecedented opportunity for Pakistan to flourish its economy. On the other hand, its geostrategic location can play a pivotal role at making the state an economic hub; resultantly, billions of foreign direct investment (FDI) would rush towards contributing in its social and economic progress. Secondly, rampant adoption of technology in the region has paved a track for Pakistan to unleash its potential by enhancing the domestic industry.
With the same token, in the political arena, with the help of the media, citizens have got backing at revolting against authoritarian governments. Moreover, a coalition at coping with environmental changes is commendable, and recently Pakistan acquired an exemplary position in the aspect of environmental savoir by launching a green project under the name of “100 billion tree tsunami”. Similarly, on social grounds, globalization has assisted Pakistan to introduce its multicultural beauty across the globe; thereby, attracting millions of keen lovers of tourists to visit scenic sites, particularly on the northern side. Furthermore, availing chances to get modern and competitive education is so easier today, and all thanks goes to none, but globalization.
KAMRAN ALI BHUTTO
Larkana
Reign of terror
Within the forlorn embrace of Kashmore’s turbulent embrace, the resonating echoes of distress form a haunting refrain, punctuated by the crescendo of a deteriorating peace situation. The very essence of tranquillity has been usurped by the malevolent designs of criminal elements, whose audacious abductions in the glare of daylight stand as a brazen affront to societal order.
Among the beleaguered, the local residents and minorities find themselves caught in a perilous web, ensnared for ignoble ends. The disheartening rise in targeted killings, both directed towards the valiant police force and the defenceless denizen, paints a grim portrait of a region beleaguered by lawlessness. A relentless contest rages between the determined law enforcement agencies and the unrelenting wave of Katcha dacoits, underscoring the confluence of criminality and the steadfast pursuit of justice. In the hinterlands, where the district’s pulse resonates with an air of vulnerability, a lamentable scenario unfolds, as innocent lives are held hostage in the sinister dance of monetary gains. The very fabric of Kashmore’s society is rent asunder as even naive teenage boys are ensnared in the macabre game of ransom. It is a haunting reflection of a society gripped by the shackles of terror, as disparate factions vie for dominance, and the rule of law bends precariously under their weight.
ZULQARNAIN KHAN
Kashmore, Sindh
Box letter
Metro bus woes
With an appalling rise in fuel prices, the newly formed interim government has ransacked the citizens making them keep their vehicles not in use. Ironically, a big whole of the community stepped forward to use public transport to exorcise its financial distress. Particularly, when it comes to metropolitans like Lahore, public transport feeds into the means of transportation. Metro bus service (MBS) passes through most of the commercial and educational hubs and facilitates the locals of the city. However, nowadays, MBS is inflicting a drought by turning its air conditioners off, which lapses the passengers in ? boiling cage. The caretaker CM Punjab made a surprise visit to the Metro bus late Wednesday and instructed the captains to keep air conditioners on, however, no implementation is in sight. Owing to this reason, a lot of people have started using local rickshaws instead of Metro buses. Ironically, this malpractice will be a key stumbling block in Metro Bus Service’s revenue. All things considered, the concerned authorities need to plumb these levels of crassness and go beyond clichés and condemnations to revive citizens’ interest in Metro buses.
MOHSIN MUMTAZ
Chiniot
