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.
Drastic increase in electricity bills
Today I am writing to express my deep concern and disappointment over the recent drastic increase in electricity bills and unit charges that have left many citizens, including myself, grappling with financial burdens and uncertainty.
The sudden surge in electricity bills has had a profound impact on the lives of ordinary citizens, who are already facing economic challenges due to various factors, including inflation and rising living costs. It is evident that this surge in electricity bills is causing considerable distress and hardship for countless families and businesses across our nation.
Transparency in the calculation of electricity charges is paramount. It is essential that consumers are provided with detailed breakdowns of their bills to ensure they understand the factors contributing to the increased costs. This transparency would not only foster trust but also empower consumers to take measures to reduce their electricity consumption more effectively.
I also call upon stakeholders o engage in a constructive dialogue on this matter. A collaborative effort between government officials, regulatory bodies, and citizens can lead to a more just and sustainable solution.
In conclusion, I implore our policymakers and regulators to take immediate action to address this pressing issue and ensure that the burden of increased electricity bills does not continue to weigh heavily on the shoulders of the people of Pakistan. Our nation deserves an electricity pricing structure that is both reasonable and considerate of the challenges we face.
ZOHA JAFFRY
Karachi
Loudest silence
In a world marked by strife and sorrow, the events of the past two weeks have etched an indelible nightmare into our collective consciousness. On October 7, 2023, Hamas, the Palestinian freedom fighters, sought to retaliate against decades of Israeli oppression. Tragically, the response was a cascade of violence that left wailing infants, adolescents, men, and women shrouded in mud and blood, mourning their dead.
President Joe Biden once proclaimed the belief in the fundamental dignity of every human life as what sets us apart from terrorists. Yet, in these dark days, the world witnessed Israeli forces reciprocating the attacks with a relentless barrage, including the use of ‘White Phosphorus’ over civilians. The narrative, however, painted Israel as the victim.
To compound the tragedy, on November 9, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu imposed a complete blockade of food and water on the Palestinians. While they claim to be targeting Hamas’ leaders, the cost of such actions cannot be ignored. This is not just about infrastructure, but the decapitation of babies, the bombed hospital, and the murder of the innocent. It’s about humanity.
Israel, in its portrayal as the victim, is unique in laying siege to its supposed oppressors while subjecting them to relentless bombardment. It’s time for the world to see through this facade. An atmosphere of terror and trauma has been crafted by the Israelis, and the global community must recognize this.
This conflict is not merely territorial; it encompasses economic, political, social, historical, and religious dimensions. To understand Israel and its people is the first step toward resolving this deep-seated enmity. Closing our eyes to the reality of the situation will not change it. This is not a mere war or conflict; it is genocide, it is ethnic cleansing. It is the Holocaust reborn. It is imperative that the world acknowledges the true nature of this tragedy and takes steps to end the suffering.
AYESHA RAUF
Multan
Same-sex marriages?
Islam has clear and explicit rules regarding sex and sexuality. According to Islam, sex is only allowed within a marriage, and an Islamic marriage can only take place between a man and a woman and not between people of the same sex, ie men-men and women-women. Islam does not allow same-sex marriages or sex before marriage or for people to have anal sex. These rules apply equally for both straight and gay people.
The Last Prophet (SAWW) said: “Doomed by the Almighty is what Lut’s (Lot in the Holy Bible) people did (ie homosexulity).” The Prophet also said: “No man should look at the private parts of another man and no woman should look at the private parts of another woman and no two men should sleep in bed under one cover and no two women should sleep in bed under one cover.”
JUBEL D’CRUZ
Mumbai, India
Crippling disease
In a troubling turn of events, just one day after the commencement of the year’s second nationwide polio vaccination drive, the third case has been reported from Bannu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). Alarmingly, all three cases in 2023 have emerged from Bannu’s Ghaura Bakahel region. The resurgence of polio is on the upswing in the seven districts of Southern KP, with no cases reported from outside the region since 2022, when every child was affected. Health Minister Dr. Nadeem Jan revealed that recent testing indicated that a staggering 90% of cases were imported from Afghanistan. Addressing this concerning situation demands unified efforts from both nations.
Meanwhile, a bill proposed by the Sindh government advocates for the imprisonment of parents who fail to ensure their children receive the polio vaccine. However, this punitive approach has sparked disagreements among the public. While opinions differ on how to address this issue, one thing remains clear: polio poses a colossal challenge. It is a battle we simply cannot afford to lose.
The key lies in coordinated efforts to combat this disease on both sides of the border. Additionally, it is imperative to dispel misconceptions about the vaccine, emphasizing its safety and efficacy. Only through collective determination can we hope to realize the dream of a polio-free Pakistan.
MAHTAB NISAR
Peshawar
