Articles and letters may be edited for the purposes of clarity and space.
Crisis of priorities
Being a senior member of the legal fraternity, I am ashamed of the way the Eid festivities are overshadowed by our national energy being wasted on useless issues attacking constitutional office holders by those for whom it was not wrong when, unfortunately, they were in power recently. Our constitutional office holders perhaps conveniently forget that protecting the fundamental rights of the citizens is the essence of their existence.
The worst-case scenario is no check on unimaginable inflation and prices of essential food items, especially during Ramadan, periodic increases in fuel, electricity and gas prices to obtain IMF Package, and domestic consumers of gas from SSGC not being available throughout the daytime, forcing them to procure Iftaris from outside vendors.
The present national chaos and the ongoing egoistic wrangling between the judiciary and a segment of politically aligned Bar members, trying to involve other security institutions, amounts to crossing the redline, which any sovereign state cannot allow to go on freely.
Parliament is ignoring the adverse impact on our people’s lives, together with arriving at a broader consensus to revamp the present system of governance that has destroyed peace and security since our birth.
The imperative need of the time is to focus on economic revival to provide two square meals to every citizen, harness domestic manpower to produce to cater for national needs and export the surplus, and not otherwise starve the people to earn exchange to pay for the servicing of unknown debts loaded by successive adventurers.
ALI ASHRAF KHAN
Karachi
Import disruption
I am writing to bring to your attention of the authorities concerned a pressing issue that is significantly affecting our economy and the livelihoods of countless individuals in the automotive sector. The influx of used car imports has resulted in a staggering loss of 40 billion PKR for local vendors. This detrimental trend not only undermines our economy but also jeopardizes the sustainability of businesses and the well-being of our citizens.
As a concerned citizen, I implore the authorities to take decisive action to mitigate the adverse effects of used car imports on our local vendors and the automotive industry as a whole. It is imperative that stricter policies are implemented to regulate the influx of these imports, thereby safeguarding the interests of our local vendors and ensuring a level playing field in the automotive market.
Furthermore, I urge the authorities to promote and incentivize the purchase of locally manufactured vehicles. By encouraging consumers to support our domestic automotive industry, we can bolster economic growth, create job opportunities and foster a thriving business environment.
The protection of local vendors and industries is paramount for the sustained prosperity of our nation. Therefore, I appeal to the government to prioritize this issue and take proactive measures to address it effectively. By doing so, we can mitigate the losses faced by our local vendors, stimulate economic growth and secure a brighter future for all citizens.
SYED OVAIS AKHTAR
Karachi
Women empowerment
Women empowerment is about granting women the authority to make decisions for themselves, allowing them equal opportunities across all fields without discrimination. It’s crucial for societal progress. Despite historical barriers, women still face challenges like domestic violence and discrimination.
In Pakistan, women encounter numerous obstacles. To empower them, we must first respect them and provide equal opportunities. This includes promoting education, employment and business ventures for women. Government initiatives are vital, but individuals can also contribute by combating social evils like dowry systems and child marriage. These collective efforts will uplift women and foster a more empowered society.
MUNAEZA NASIR
Turbat, Kech
