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.
Free Palestine
In a devastating escalation of conflict, Israel has once again engaged in a tragic war with Palestine, resulting in a heartbreaking loss of Palestinian lives, including innocent children. Since Saturday, numerous health facilities have been destroyed, 48 schools have been damaged, and countless homes have been reduced to ruins. From the Palestinian side alone, 370 lives have been tragically lost, while 600 casualties have been reported from the Israeli side.
This conflict has not only shattered the peace but also plunged the entire region into despair. The condition of Palestinians has reached an unprecedented low, with people living in dire circumstances, lacking even the basic necessities like food. The situation is nothing short of a humanitarian crisis, demanding urgent attention from the international community. It is time for nations around the world to take immediate and decisive action to safeguard Palestinian lives.
TASLEEM MOHSIN
Karachi
Superiority-biased authorities
I am writing this letter to express my deepest and most disturbing concern about an incident that justifies the saying, “Being a minority in the majority is a curse.” I am a student at Islamia University of Bahawalpur, residing in the university hostel. Despite completing my two-year program (four semesters) and receiving vacation for the next 3-4 months, the Usman Hall hostel administration has broken my locker and discarded all my belongings solely because I am a religious minority.
Amidst prejudice and discrimination at its finest, it’s important to note that I have consistently paid all my dues on time. Considering that I come from Khairpur Mirs, Sindh, the long-distance travel makes it impractical for me to immediately retrieve my belongings. I strongly appeal to the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and relevant authorities to investigate this matter and ensure justice is served on the highest humanitarian grounds.
This unjust act not only violates my rights as a student but also reflects negatively on the principles of equality and tolerance that our educational institutions should uphold. I am not the only minority student who faces and suffers such grave prejudice in institutions across Pakistan; there are numerous students who can’t raise their voices against these ill-minded and superiority-biased authorities.
I urge the HEC to take prompt action to address this issue, safeguard the rights of all students and foster an environment of inclusivity within our academic institutions. It is crucial that such incidents are thoroughly investigated to prevent the recurrence of discrimination based on religious or ethnic backgrounds, ensuring a safe and respectful space for all students, regardless of their affiliations.
PEHLAJ KUMAR
Khairpur, Sindh
Upholding the sanctity of life
I’m highly concerned about the use of lethal force by law enforcement agencies. Recent events have raised questions about the role of our Police force and the preservation of human life. In an era where many countries have abolished the death sentence, we must re-evaluate our stance on Police using lethal force. It’s crucial to prioritize non-lethal options, better training and de-escalation tactics for law enforcement. One argument is that police officers should aim to disable suspects without taking their lives, such as shooting below the waist. Decisions involving life and death should not rest solely with one Police force. Waiting for a second opinion can help avoid impulsive actions in the heat of the moment, ultimately preventing potentially devastating and far-reaching consequences.
I also advocate for police to allocate resources towards tracking and tracing suspects for safe arrests, rather than resorting to deadly force. This approach safeguards lives and eliminates negative emotions associated with police shootings. Individuals within law enforcement who abuse their power must not be protected by the law. Upholding the sanctity of life and ensuring accountability within police forces are essential steps towards building trust and promoting justice.
While I acknowledge the challenges law enforcement officers face, there are alternative methods to de-escalate situations without deadly force. As we witness global criminal justice reform, we must re-evaluate our practices and policies. I urge law enforcement agencies to prioritize non-lethal options, better training and effective de-escalation tactics to ensure safety for all. By doing so, we can promote a safer and more just society.
BEVERLEY T MUTANDIRO
Via email
What rulers are giving to their nation?
Teachers and students are taking to the roads in protest of government policies. Where are we heading? Why aren’t our leaders considering the welfare of their impoverished nation? Our leaders frequently travel to various countries for Pakistan’s development, but amidst their travels, have they ever observed teachers and students rallying for their rights? Teachers play a vital role as nation builders, yet in Pakistan, they are apprehensive about their rights. Parents share this concern for their children’s education.
In Pakistan, an average family with 3 or 4 children struggles to afford education alongside other necessities. The government sector boasts highly qualified teachers; however, unfortunately, no one seems to know how to harness their intelligence and education for Pakistan’s development and progress. If the government remains steadfast in their policies, Pakistan stands to lose its educated individuals.
It’s predicted that 60% of Pakistanis will seek opportunities abroad for their children’s future. In the coming years, Pakistan might merely become a country where Pakistanis return only to offer prayers at their ancestors’ graves. Our leaders should prioritize the well-being of their nation. The nation’s children are their own children.
NABA SAEED
Kallar Syedan
Box letter
Spreading begging
The number of beggars in Pakistan is on a significant rise. A majority of the unemployed population living below the poverty line are resorting to begging as a means of survival. Disturbingly, begging has now evolved into a profession, with many Pakistanis going to foreign countries such as Iran and Iraq to beg. Furthermore, there are millions of out-of-school children in Pakistan who are being forced by their families to beg. This alarming trend highlights the urgent need for intervention and support from the government to address the root causes of this crisis. The government should provide assistance and support to those in need, ensuring they are not compelled to resort to begging within the country or seek begging opportunities abroad.
ASMA NASIR
Via email
