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Repression on movement
In solidarity with the Palestinians, university students in various cities across the US have started calling upon their university presidents to divest from companies that have been supporting Israel. These protests have been met with calls from presidents to law enforcement agencies to dismantle these encampments. Police brutality is intensifying as the protest movement rises, with hundreds of students arrested and many instances of violations of free speech rights being seen.
It is surreal to witness a western nation experiencing something so similar to the scenes in Gaza. Food supplies to camps in various universities and in Gaza have been cut off. Harsh measures are being taken to silence students who are simply demanding for a war to come to an end. The next step will be the use of rubber bullets and chemical agents against demonstrators in order to disperse them. Student safety is not a priority anymore than quelling dissenting voices is. Many compare the scenes in these institutions to the Vietnam War protests that took place 50 years ago. Yet, the way American authorities are dealing with these protestors is not all too different from the past.
Activism and peaceful protest cannot be silenced, especially in America where freedom of speech is seen as quintessential to the American way of life. The suppression of students to this extent may actually generate even more publicity towards the protests themselves. Similar to how the media caused this issue to implode on itself, we can expect these aggressive tactics cannot succeed in suppressing the student’s movement in favour of Palestinians. Needless to say, the events unfolding within US universities represent a critical moment, US rulers should not forget the political history of their retreat in Vietnam. After all the historical implications cannot be ignored.
MUNAWAR SIDDIQUI
Lahore
Media dynamics
In today’s fast-paced world, media plays a crucial role in disseminating information and keeping us updated on current events. It’s amazing how much influence and power the media holds in shaping public opinion and perception. It has the ability to bring important issues to the forefront, hold those in power accountable and give a voice to the marginalized.
However, it’s important to acknowledge that media can also be a double-edged sword. With the rise of social media and the constant need for breaking news, accuracy and fact-checking sometimes take a backseat. Sensationalism and clickbait headlines can often overshadow the truth, leading to misinformation and confusion among the public.
Moreover, media bias has become a growing concern. It’s essential for journalists to maintain objectivity and present multiple perspectives to ensure a balanced narrative. The media should strive to provide accurate, unbiased and well-researched information to empower the public to make informed decisions. Additionally, the role of media in promoting diversity and inclusivity cannot be overlooked. It has the power to challenge stereotypes, highlight underrepresented voices and foster understanding among different communities.
As consumers of media, we also have a responsibility to be critical thinkers and fact-checkers. It’s important to seek out reliable sources, question information presented to us and engage in respectful and constructive dialogue. In conclusion, the role of media in recent times is both powerful and complex. It has the potential to inform, inspire and unite us, but it also comes with challenges that need to be addressed. By holding ourselves and the media accountable, we can work towards a more responsible and inclusive media landscape.
ABDUL SAMI
Karachi
Modi: World’s No 1 corrupted leader
According to the information on Google, Narendra Modi is the world’s top-most corrupted leader. When Manipur was burning, he was having dinner with America’s President Joe Biden. Till now he has not visited the state of Manipur and consoled the people nor compensated them.
JUBEL D’CRUZ
Mumbai, India
Judicial crisis
In a recent speech by Justice Mansoor Ali Shah, he shared staggering statistics regarding the state of the judiciary in Pakistan: out of 4000 total judges, 1000 positions remain vacant. He pointed out that Pakistan has only 13 judges per million people, while the international standard is 90 judges per million. Following this benchmark, Pakistan would require 21000 judges, given its population. Furthermore, the courts are inundated with a staggering workload, with 70000 cases registered daily in session and district courts, and 3000 in the Supreme Court.
Justice Mansoor Ali Shah advocated for the establishment of an arbitration centre in Islamabad, emphasizing the urgent need for Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms across the country. He highlighted the negligible presence of commercial courts, underscoring the importance of their expansion.
Another pressing issue is the glaring gender disparity within the judiciary. With only 562 (16%) female judges in Pakistan, including just two in the Supreme Court, the lack of female representation is a significant setback for the justice system. Justice Mansoor Ali Shah stressed the importance of diverse perspectives in addressing societal issues, making gender representation imperative.
The shortage of judges poses a serious threat to Pakistan’s legal system and its ability to dispense justice effectively. To address this, the government must prioritize the appointment of qualified judges to ensure a fair and equitable legal process, crucial for the country’s progress and development.
AREEBA ALTAF
Larkana
Protecting intellectual heritage
In a distressing turn of events, the residence of esteemed scholar Uxi Mufti in Murree was targeted by looters who plundered his home, seizing invaluable manuscripts among other possessions. Despite Mr. Mufti’s efforts, authorities have yet to take substantive action, leaving his plea for justice unanswered.
The loss of these irreplaceable manuscripts not only deprives our society of its intellectual heritage but also undermines the fundamental right to preserve and protect cultural treasures. Mr. Mufti’s plight highlights a glaring failure in our law enforcement system to safeguard the invaluable assets of our intellectual community.
It is imperative that the authorities act swiftly and decisively to apprehend the perpetrators and recover the stolen artefacts. Moreover, steps must be taken to ensure the security of scholars and their work, fostering an environment where intellectual pursuits are safeguarded and respected.
We urge law enforcement agencies to prioritize this matter and demonstrate their commitment to upholding justice and protecting our cultural heritage. Failure to act not only perpetuates injustice but also threatens the very fabric of our intellectual legacy.
It is time for action. It is time to stand in solidarity with Mr. Uxi Mufti and all scholars whose invaluable contributions enrich our society. Let us unite in demanding accountability and justice for this reprehensible crime.
MUHAMMAD SABIR
Islamabad
Box letter
Water crisis
If there is a serious shortage of water in Karachi, how is it that water tankers are not affected by it? From where do they source water for resale? Water is essential for living, yet no real solution to our water shortage has been presented or considered. Through your newspaper, I request the concerned authorities of the Water Board to let the people of Karachi live. I would like to draw the attention of the Water Board authorities towards the grievance of the people of our locality, F.B. Area. For the last two months, we have been facing this problem of a shortage of water supply. We are desperately waiting for a supply of clean water. Your immediate action in this matter is required, which would certainly be admired by every member of our society.
BISMA MUJEEB
Karachi
