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.
Naked barbarity & US backing
Though the UN General Assembly passed a resolution calling on Israel to observe a ceasefire in its attack on the Gaza Strip in response to the attacks against by Hamas on 7 October, Israel has remained obdurate. The resolution was passed by 120 votes to 14, with 45 abstentions. The UNGA resolution followed an attempt to get the Security Council to intervene, but that failed because of the US veto.
Israel’s disobedience to the UN General Assembly is to be ascribed to the backing of the US, which seems blind in its backing of Israel, because that backing is making nonsense of its claims to being a champion of human rights. Its clamour about supposed violations of human rights in such third-world countries as Pakistan now ring hollow in view of how easily it is ignoring Israeli atrocities, even to the extent of backing its falsehoods. The problem that the UNO faces is that such disobedience renders it irrelevant.
The collapse of its predecessor, the League of Nations, should make it clear that the persistence of bad behaviour by members will lead to a loss of relevance. The death toll in the Gaza Strip is a human tragedy, where a state has been let loose on a civilian population. Israel has subjected the Gaza Strip to its most intense bombardment so far as preparation for moving in its ground forces. Already, with 7000 deaths claimed, the death toll is frightening. In Gaza, in the slaughter of the Palestinian people the USA’s backing of Israel’s naked barbarity further tarnishes its face in history as being claimant of human rights. The role of Muslim countries is questionable as well.
QAZI JAMSHED SIDDIQUI
Lahore
Early marriage
Early marriage poses a significant threat to our generation, entangling countless difficulties in its grip. Shockingly, Pakistan ranks sixth globally in the alarming statistic of underage girls being married off before the age of 18. Advocates of this practice often defend it as a traditional, cultural, or religious norm. However, this deeply rooted issue has sprouted from the soil of poverty, limited resources, and widespread illiteracy.
These young girls, burdened with premature responsibilities, find their educational aspirations shattered. This hindrance not only hampers their academic progress but inflicts mental anguish upon them. Physically and mentally immature, they face severe challenges during pregnancy and childbirth. This tragic cycle perpetuates a lack of education, hindering our nation’s growth, economy, and stability.
A study conducted by the World Bank in 2017 highlighted the grim reality: early marriages could cost developing countries trillions of dollars by 2023. The repercussions extend far beyond economics. Within Pakistan, a specific province grapples with the highest rate of child marriages nationwide, as revealed by a report from the United Nations International Children Emergency Fund. A staggering 19 million children in the country are deprived of their rights, with poverty, lack of awareness, and security concerns identified as the primary causes of child marriage.
This issue demands immediate and decisive action from the government. Setting an age limitation for marriage is just the first step; rigorous enforcement and awareness campaigns are essential. Only by addressing the root causes and ensuring strict compliance can we break free from the shackles of this alarming social problem. The future of our nation depends on our collective resolve to eradicate early marriage and pave the way for a brighter, more empowered generation.
TAHIRA WASHDIL
Via email
Dirty energy
The excessive burning of coal leads to a polluted atmosphere. Nowadays, its low cost has worsened the conditions, as it is used rapidly. In Pakistan, it is a common fuel to produce electricity, but it is considered the dirtiest of all fossil fuels. When burned, it produces sulfuric acid and nitric acid, which cause acid rain and other forms of pollution. Coal also produces the least energy for every CO2 molecule it emits into the atmosphere, thus enhancing the greenhouse effect and contributing to global warming.
Therefore, Pakistan should take serious measures to avoid the excessive use of coal for electricity production in order to save its atmosphere and environment. Instead, it should explore other effective ways to produce electricity.
SHAHNAWAZ MEERAN
Awaran
Security concerns
In an era dominated by technological advancement, security concerns have become the linchpin of our digital existence. From personal data to critical infrastructure, the pervasive nature of interconnected systems exposes us to unprecedented risks. One paramount concern lies in the realm of data breaches. As our lives migrate online, malevolent actors find ever more sophisticated means to exploit vulnerabilities. A single breach can cascade into identity theft, financial loss, and irreparable damage to one’s digital footprint. The sanctity of personal information hangs in the balance.
Moreover, the rise of IoT (Internet of Things) introduces a new frontier of apprehension. As our homes and workplaces become smarter, the security of these interconnected devices becomes paramount. A breach in a smart home system not only compromises privacy but opens a gateway to physical security threats. On a broader scale, the threat to critical infrastructure looms large. Cyber-attacks on power grids, financial systems, or healthcare networks can cripple societies, highlighting the imperative to fortify these digital bulwarks.
In the face of these challenges, a collective commitment to cyber security is non-negotiable. Only through robust measures, constant vigilance, and innovative solutions can we hope to navigate this digital frontier securely, ensuring the integrity of our personal lives and the stability of our interconnected world.
TAHIR JAMALI
Shaheed Benazirabad
Box letter
Embracing thrift
In the spirit of World Thrift Day, (31 Oct) marked annually , let’s take a moment to celebrate the value of frugality and mindful spending. Thriftiness isn’t just about saving money; it’s a lifestyle choice that can make a significant impact on our environment and society. Thrift encourages us to think twice before making a purchase, promoting responsible consumption and reducing waste. By embracing thrift, we not only save resources but also contribute to a sustainable future for generations to come. On this World Thrift Day, let’s pledge to be more mindful of our consumption habits. Together, we can create a culture of thrift that benefits not only our wallets but also our planet. By making small, intentional choices, we can make a big impact. Let’s celebrate World Thrift Day by embracing the power of thriftiness and working towards a more sustainable and responsible future.
MARIAM SABIR
Rawalpindi
