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.
Is terrorism resurging?
In the most recent days, the state confronted a spate of different attacks around the region including the year’s deadliest attack on military; an ambush on two security vehicles martyred 14 soldiers in Gwadar. The same day a bomb blast targeted the police in Dera Ghazi Khan. And then on Saturday a nefarious activity by militants targeting Mianwali Air base was successfully thwarted as all nine terrorists were shot dead as reported by military side. A series of such wicked incidents pertaining to terrorism indicates the resurgence of the following evil which is definitely a wake-up call for Government and State’s security apparatus.
Another key thing to remember is that these militant outfits are fanatic in such a course of time when the State is carrying repatriation plan for Afghanistan and interestingly the issue had raised the concerns among those who are holding sway in Kabul. Likewise, Mianwali airbase attack was professed by the TTP-linked Tehreek-i-Jihad Pakistan which is allegedly emboldened by Afghan Taliban. All things considered. In a best case scenario, to shun this path to global catastrophe will require some rational and staunch decisions from stakeholders of both sides. The first order of the business must be the extra vigilance of security operators. Additionally, Pakistan must execute National Action Plan and who ever found incumbent must be treated with iron hands. Last but not the least, both States should share a common table to execute some viable plans to wipe out lamenting scourge.
SAIF UR REHMAN
Lahore
World Cup
Despite rubble and disturbance all around since decades, Afghanistan’s climbing up in the cricketing ladder is definitely a fresh piece of news. Unending civil war, Bombings, spray of bullets, deaths of near and dear ones, displacement, leading life of refugees! Not to speak of drastic poverty malnutrition and hunger!
Yet far from getting psychologically shattered, Afghans have made their way up in cricketing sphere despite no tradition or modern infrastructure – – – thanks to their undiluted urge to play the game, enthusiasm, zeal, “Never Say Die” spirit, tenacity, mental strength and optimism. So they dare to have a dream of succeeding against all odds by thwarting all possible adversities and grief. This is the reason why they have managed to qualify for the World Cup ahead of older teams like Zimbabwe Ireland Kenya and traditional powerhouse West Indies which is an achievement by itself.
And thereafter what an unprecedented success of the Afghans displaying their best possible skills and courage – – toppling not only defending World Champion England, but also earlier champions Pakistan (1992) and Sri Lanka (1996) as well! Will the Afghans spring another surprise by beating multiple World Champions Aussies or the unpredictable South Africans and be a serious contender for the semi-final! Of course, it will be told by time only; but apart from majestic Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi, the likes of Rahmat Shah Azmatullah Omarzai have won the hearts of all cricket lovers across the globe with the captain Hashmatullah Shahidi leading from the front.
There lies no doubt that with gain of experience; Afghans would turn out to be a dominating force in the very near future. Possessed of prodigious talent and positive attitude, the team would surely bring in laurels for the country through cricket enabling the flag of Afghanistan to wave proudly in a truly positive light.
KAJAL CHATTERJEE
Kolkata, India
Boarding academies
According to some estimates, there are nearly 100 boarding academies in Pakistan. These boarding academies provide a brilliant quality of education, motivate the students, boost their confidence, and teach them the skills of time management. Similarly, such boarding schools also provide all the facilities and necessities.
Besides this, the fees of boarding academies are unaffordable for several students and families as they take about 50,000 to 75,000 per month. Ultimately, there should be built new boarding academies where students can afford to read.
ASMA NASIR
Lahore
Box letter
Congo virus
I am writing to bring to the government’s attention the alarming surge in Congo virus cases which is spreading rapidly across Balochistan. A recent report indicates that the Balochistan health authorities have emphasized the provincial government’s efforts to develop a strategy for the prevention and treatment of the Congo virus. It is imperative for the government to respond to this issue by rigorously enforcing the necessary Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). The Health Minister must show unwavering commitment to the success of the department’s strategy in preventing the virus’s spread and ensuring the provision of the best possible treatment to patients. The recent spread of this dangerous virus is causing a multitude of problems for the people. The healthcare department should issue a press statement to educate the public about the precautions necessary to combat the Congo virus.
ESSIYAN UMAR
Via email
