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Secularism
The recent surge in violence in the Kurram Agency is a stark reminder of the deep-seated sectarian tensions that have plagued the region for decades. The latest clash, which erupted when a passenger bus was ambushed near Mandori, is merely the latest manifestation of a conflict that predates the partition of the subcontinent. Despite numerous attempts at negotiation, education on religious tolerance and awareness of Muslim brotherhood, the violence persists.
The recent ceasefire deal brokered amongst the Shia and Sunni sects offers a glimmer of hope, but the guarantee of complete tolerance amongst them remains uncertain. The real threat to Pakistan’s stability, however, lies not in external enemies, but in the rising tide of religious extremism. The brutal killings of innocent people, the blatant disregard for human life and the ongoing genocide in the Kurram Agency are all stark reminders of the dangers of unchecked extremism.
In this context, secularism emerges as a beacon of hope. By separating the state from religion, secularism promotes a culture of tolerance, inclusivity and mutual respect. It is an ideology that has been successfully implemented in numerous countries around the world, including Azerbaijan, which boasts a 99% Muslim population. A comparative analysis of Pakistan and Azerbaijan reveals the stark contrast between the two countries. While Azerbaijan has made significant strides in promoting religious tolerance, socioeconomic progress and the rule of law, Pakistan continues to grapple with the challenges of extremism, intolerance and instability.
UMAR KHITAB
Islamabad
Inequality challenge in South Punjab
As a resident of South Punjab, I have witnessed firsthand the severe challenges faced by the people in this region. South Punjab comprises approximately 52% of the total area of Punjab, yet it lags behind in development and opportunities. While Upper Punjab boasts around 33 public universities, South Punjab has only 11, with Lahore alone having more universities than the entire southern region. This disparity is a clear example of inequality. When students from South Punjab travel to Upper Punjab for higher education, they often face significant challenges, primarily due to the intense competition in those areas. This situation underscores the urgent need for the government to focus more on the development of South Punjab.
In many parts of South Punjab, children aspire to study, but due to the lack of schools and educational opportunities, they are often forced into work by their parents instead. This perpetuates a cycle of inequality and limits opportunities for future generations. This is why many of us feel the need for a separate province—Saraikistan—to address these injustices.
The region suffers from a lack of proper administration and essential services, contributing to widespread poverty and limited access to basic necessities. Many people from South Punjab are compelled to migrate to other provinces or even abroad in search of better opportunities, leaving their loved ones behind. As a student, I urge the government to form a dedicated Committee to address these pressing issues.
MALIK M SHAHWAIZ
Dera Ghazi Khan
Victors are narrators
History is the written account of past events in succession, providing us with a window into the world’s evolution. Therefore, it is imperative to know, preserve, and celebrate history. Despite this, it is sometimes difficult to determine the origins of these events. As Winston Churchill eloquently put it, “History is written by the victors.”
Thus, it remains an enigma for many people, particularly the descendants of the vanquished, who often question the foundation of historical records and their veracity. For the missing pieces of the puzzle to fall into place, authenticity is essential.
TAHIR JAMALI
Nawabshah
Gender inclusivity
Pakistan is a country characterized by its diverse cultural and religious minorities, including the transgender community. Upholding the fundamental human rights enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) is a primary responsibility of the state. In line with this principle, the Government of Sindh has taken a historic step by approving Pakistan’s first-ever transgender education policy.
This landmark policy was approved during a key meeting chaired by Sindh’s Education Minister, Syed Sardar Ali Shah, in collaboration with senior officials, including the Sindh Secretary of School Education and the Chief Executive Advisor. The policy introduces the inclusion of a transgender category in school and college admission forms and allocates a specific quota for transgender individuals in teacher recruitment processes.
The significance of this policy is underscored by the 2023 National Census, which reports a population of 20,331 transgender individuals in Pakistan, with 4,222 residing in Sindh. Additionally, a study by USAID highlights that 42% of transgender individuals are barely literate, while another 42% have no access to education. Importantly, the policy was developed in consultation with representatives of the transgender community to address their specific educational challenges.
This progressive initiative has the potential to transform societal attitudes toward the transgender community in Sindh. By increasing their access to education and integrating them into mainstream society, the policy aims to reduce stigma and foster a sense of inclusion. Moreover, this step will contribute to raising the national literacy rate and empowering transgender individuals to participate actively in the country’s social and economic development.
SAJJAD ALI MEMON
Darbello, Sindh
