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Election promises
Pakistan’s electoral cycle, occurring every five years, holds the promise of progress and development as citizens entrust their aspirations to chosen leaders. Yet, this optimism is often met with disappointment as false promises pervade the political landscape. Leaders, in their bid for power, make grandiose pledges during campaigns only to conveniently forget them once in office. Despite assurances to tackle pressing issues, such as crumbling infrastructure, rampant poverty and unemployment, little changes after each election. The dire absence of school construction perpetuates educational deficits, endangering the future prospects of our children.”
The entrenched cycle of poverty reflects the plight of individuals grappling with limited opportunities and inadequate access to essential services. Despite the public’s desperate need for quality healthcare, hospitals often lack basic facilities, leading to tragic outcomes. It’s high time for both the media and the populace to demand accountability from our elected representatives. Our strength lies in our ability to uphold principles of honesty and integrity, compelling leaders to honour their commitments. Through the scrutiny of deceptive practices, we can shed light on the genuine challenges facing our nation and pave the way for meaningful change.
A CITIZEN
Via email
Balochistan priorities
The next CM of Balochistan should be someone dedicated to fulfilling the fundamental rights and needs of our province. Currently, Balochistan faces numerous challenges, with issues ranging from inadequate educational institutions and a shortage of teachers to a lack of infrastructure, widespread poverty, high unemployment rates and human rights violations. Many Baloch people are forced to leave the province due to unemployment, struggling to afford basic necessities like food and water, often resorting to begging to survive.
Additionally, the alarming number of missing persons in Balochistan, reportedly exceeding 7,000 according to Baloch Voice, raises significant concerns. The absence of a clear explanation for their disappearance casts doubt on the effectiveness of leadership in addressing such critical issues. Poverty is pervasive in the province, with many resorting to scavenging for items to sell in order to buy food. The situation in Balochistan is dire, with visible signs of distress evident on its streets. In the light of these challenges, it is essential for the incoming CM to confront these issues head-on. Addressing poverty, unemployment, human rights abuses, and the alarming rate of missing persons must be top priorities for the new leadership. By tackling these issues effectively, the CM can work towards improving the lives of Balochistan’s residents and fostering positive change throughout the province.
ZAHEER SIRAJ
Awaran
Cultural paradigm shift
In the canvas of Pakistan’s evolution, the clash between its Islamic identity and the pervasive influence of Western industrial culture raises poignant questions. As a Muslim nation, our ethos is deeply rooted in the principles of Islam, which inherently grant women essential freedoms within its framework. However, the disconcerting shift towards Westernized attire and lifestyle choices seems to echo a Discrepancy from our cultural moorings.
Islam advocates modesty and adherence to its principles, acknowledging the importance of cultural identity. The influx of attire that transcends the boundaries of modesty raises concerns about the preservation of our cultural integrity.
It’s disheartening to witness a divergence that appears contrary to the essence of a Muslim state. Having open thoughts and opinions and, living life according to modern lifestyle is imperative but to be in cultural fabric. The swiftly spreading of westernization in Islamic countries is concerning Matter.
Perhaps, in our pursuit of progress and modernity, we should tread cautiously to ensure that our cultural fabric remains complexly woven with the threads of Islamic values. It is mandatory upon us, as custodians of this Islamic republic, to foster an environment where both progress and cultural authenticity coexist in unison, creating a society that reflects true spirit of our heritage and faith.
AREEBA ALTAF
Larkana (Sindh)
Farmers’ agitation
The Government of India on priority basis should listen to the woes of farmers in all sincerity and seriousness. Let the ‘feeders of the nation’ be heard.
There have been many unfortunate instances of farmers committing suicide in the recent past. Let the Government not hide under the pretext of saying that the agitation is politically motivated. All their demands should be fulfilled.
JUBEL D’CRUZ
Mumbai, India
Box letter
Road accidents
Road accidents have become very common nowadays. As more and more people are buying automobiles, the incidences of road accidents are just increasing day by day. Furthermore, people have also become more careless now. Not many people follow the traffic rules. Especially in big cities, there are various modes of transport. Moreover, the roads are becoming narrower and the cities have become more populated. Thus, road accidents are bound to happen. But unfortunately, the concerned authorities have failed to address the problem adequately. They cause loss of life as well as material. People need to be more careful when on the road, no matter which mode of transport you are from. Even the ones on foot are not safe because of the rise in these incidents. Every year a large number of people lose their lives due to road accidents. The matter needs redressal as soon as possible.
AYESHA NOOR
Karachi