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Karsaz accident
The recent Karsaz accident, involving Natasha, a young woman reportedly under the influence of drugs, tragically resulted in the deaths of an elderly man and his daughter, Amna. This incident highlights the urgent need for stricter enforcement of drug and driving regulations.
The loss of life due to reckless behaviour is unacceptable. While the specific circumstances are still under investigation, it is evident that both drug abuse and impaired driving are severe threats to public safety. Data consistently shows that drugged driving significantly increases the risk of fatal accidents.
To prevent such tragedies, we must call for stricter penalties for drug-related offences and improved screening for impaired drivers. Enhanced public awareness campaigns about the dangers of driving under the influence are also crucial. Authorities should act promptly to implement these measures and ensure justice for victims.
NAZISH ZAHRA
Lahore
Punishment for rapists
In my opinion, the punishment for a rapist should be harsher than death. One of his eyes should be removed to prevent him from ever having ill intentions toward a woman again. His tongue should be cut out, and half of his teeth broken to ensure he cannot bite or speak with malicious intent.
One hand’s fingers and the entire other hand should be severed to stop any further acts of violence. Additionally, one leg should be amputated and the other leg entirely removed, as such individuals do not deserve to walk on this Earth. Implementing these measures, in my view, could significantly reduce the fear that women face, both day and night.
JUBEL D’CRUZ
Mumbai, India
From instability to chaos
Within two months, Bangladesh lurched from political unrest to communal violence. Rioters attacked members of the Awami League party, comprising both Hindu and Muslim members. But there was huge cyber frenzy on X around the false videos of horrifying violence and Hindu temple attacks by the ‘Islamists in Bangladesh’. These videos and graphics were misleading footage of alleged Hindu genocide in Bangladesh in the wake of the ouster of PM Sheikh Hasina.
Certainly, minorities feel insecure in the absence of government and effective law and order, but the Jagannath Dev’s Ratha Yatra was not attacked in Bangladesh. One of the temple’s staff members confirmed that the locals ensure its safety and security 24/7. These false narratives made the situation worse by inflaming the tensions. In addition, the report by ‘Report Scanner’ said that between August 5 and 13, total 50 accounts were responsible for spreading misinformation and propaganda using mishandled videos as their primary medium against the Bengalis. 72% of these accounts were India-based, with some linked to India’s influential individuals and mainstream media outlets.
This incident highlights how misinformation and propaganda can exploit communal vulnerabilities, thus threatening national security. Had it not been handled sagaciously and debunked timely by Bangladeshi students who took matter into their hands and protected Hindus and their properties, it would have unleashed chaos in a politically unstable country. So, it is essential for the states to take concrete steps to counter misinformation and propaganda.
HANIYA AFZAL
Faisalabad
Enduring injustice
In Pakistan, securing a job is often a privilege reserved for the wealthy and well-connected, rather than a merit-based opportunity. Despite being highly educated, poor individuals struggle to find employment, while relatives and friends of the influential secure positions. The wealthy exploit the poor, offering meagre compensation for laborious tasks, perpetuating poverty. The poor are forced into menial jobs, such as labour and shop work, just to make ends meet.
Pakistan’s value system prioritizes wealth over merit, leaving the poor marginalized. Government hospitals neglect the underprivileged, failing to provide essential medicines or, worse, providing expired ones. Corruption pervades every aspect of Pakistani society, denying poor access to basic rights.
ZAMEER ASHRAF
Kolwah
