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India-Pak: Bridging for peace
Through the column of your esteemed newspaper, I want to draw the attention of the general public to the intricate tapestry of South Asian relations. The dynamics between India and Pakistan have long been marked by volatility and distrust. Yet, amidst this backdrop of historical tensions, recent developments signal a potential shift towards reconciliation.
Despite past controversies, there is a glimmer of hope emerging as both nations demonstrate a willingness to engage in dialogue and seek common ground. This newfound openness is not limited to political elites; ordinary citizens are also fostering connections across borders, transcending the constraints imposed by governmental discord.
However, it would be remiss to ignore the persistent challenges that continue to strain relations between India and Pakistan. Deep-seated issues such as the Kashmir conflict and the spectre of terrorism cast a shadow over the path to peace.
Yet, the lessons of history remind us that the dividends of friendship far outweigh the costs of conflict. By embracing cooperation and mutual understanding, India and Pakistan have the potential to pave the way for a brighter future, one characterized by shared prosperity and stability.
In this critical juncture, it is imperative for both nations to seize the opportunity for dialogue and reconciliation. By addressing longstanding grievances and fostering an environment of trust and cooperation, India and Pakistan can chart a course towards a more harmonious relationship, ultimately enriching the lives of millions across the region.
ABISH ALAM
Karachi
Afghan refugees
The mishandling of the Afghan refugee crisis has led to significant repercussions in Pakistan, highlighting the need for a more comprehensive approach to address the challenges posed by their presence. Unlike other countries that confined Afghan refugees to specific areas during transit, Pakistan allowed them to settle across the entire nation. While initially a humanitarian gesture, this approach has led to various socio-economic challenges over time.
With no proper planning from our governments, Afghan refugees initially entered Pakistan and then dispersed throughout the country. Over the years, they have integrated into Pakistani society, engaging in businesses and acquiring properties. However, their presence has also negatively impacted Pakistan’s economy, contributing to issues such as the proliferation of the Kalashnikov culture, an increase in drug abuse and incidents of terrorism.
Illegal Afghan residents have exploited Pakistan’s flawed system, obtaining national identity cards and passports, thus affecting both the national identity and societal fabric. In contrast, neighbouring countries, by confining Afghan refugees to specific areas, have managed to avoid such issues. It is evident that the lack of a coherent policy framework has exacerbated the challenges posed by Afghan refugees in Pakistan.
Last statistics indicate that Pakistan hosted around 4 million Afghan refugees, with approximately 2.2 million possessing either Afghan passports or Pakistani-issued refugee cards, while about 1.8 million lacked proper documentation. In response, the caretaker government mandated all undocumented Afghan residents, along with others, to leave Pakistan by October 31, 2023. However, the situation remains complex due to the continuous influx of Afghan refugees, especially in the light of the recent Taliban resurgence.
GULAB UMID
Turbat
Course sellers
Social media platforms abound with videos, text posts, reels, tweets, and more. Individuals who share content on the internet are commonly known as influencers. While many influencers are genuine and strive to engage positively with their followers, others deceive their fans. Recently, certain individuals have begun selling low-quality online courses for thousands of rupees.
These courses, upon closer examination, clearly do not justify their high price tags. For instance, I noticed a TikTok user manipulating viewers into buying his course by showcasing a rented car, falsely claiming he became wealthy through a specific app. This deceit not only misleads people but also jeopardizes the integrity of digital commerce, especially when such a course is sold for 50,000 rupees—a seemingly easy feat for him if he reaches a thousand people.
This would net him 5 crore rupees, enabling him to rent more luxury cars and potentially deceive even more people across Pakistan. I strongly advise against supporting such individuals who pose a threat to our country. Cyber specialists should take action to prevent these fraudulent activities and protect the community.
BASIT UCHIHA
Via email
Box letter
Street crimes
The persistent threat of street crime looms large over the financial hub’s population, despite numerous claims and boasts. Recent high-profile incidents in various neighbourhoods highlight the urgent need for comprehensive measures to tackle this issue. Street crime has long been a complex problem, exacerbated by authorities’ lackadaisical approach, leading to its escalation over the years without effective intervention. While police action may temporarily suppress crime, it resurfaces once normalcy returns, indicating that short-term measures are inadequate. The root causes, including extremist groups and patronage by powerful individuals, must be addressed alongside socio-economic initiatives to provide lasting solutions Extremist religious groups serve as breeding grounds for criminals. Additionally, the lack of political will to eliminate the problem is also a root cause because these criminals are patronized by powerful people who use them to promote their interests in exchange for protection.
KHADIJA USMAN SHAR
Karachi
