Articles and letters may be edited for the purposes of clarity and space. They are published in good faith with a view to enlightening all the stakeholders. However, the contents of these writings may not necessarily match the views of the newspaper.
Verbal Haemorrhoids
Political rivalries apart, it is the choice of words used by spokesmen, or spokeswomen, of political parties which reflects the mindset of their leadership, their democratic credentials or fascist tendencies. When spokesman/spokeswoman, while trying to please their masters, descend to the lowest pits of decency, devoid of all morals and ethics it falls in the category of Verbal Haemorrhoids.
The unacceptable reference to the mode of transportation of mortal remains of the mother of Nawaz and Shahbaz has hurt the sentiments of many who have brought back for burial the mortal remains of their loved ones, as per their wish to be interred in the soil of their motherland. There are IATA/ICAO rules which define the mode of transportation and procedures, such as hermetically sealed coffin etc., which must be followed for transportation of mortal remains in cargo holds of commercial aircraft, which are followed universally.
Pakistan aviation is already facing sanctions with threats of restricting their over flight or landing at major airports. In assessment of EASA, we have failed to enforce regulation and implement Safety Management System which includes carriage of dangerous goods and strictly following emergency procedures, and serviceability equipment and certification of personnel involved in operation and handling of commercial aviation. Pakistan CAA has lost credibility and in opinion of EASA, those assigned to regulate its various functions lack competence, skills and experience which is required for regulation and ensuring safety.
MALIK TARIQ ALI
Lahore
Preparing for Christmas
The season of preparing for Christmas is called ‘Advent’ and begins on a Sunday four weeks before Christmas. The Christmas season ends on January 6. As Christians celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, the story of how this happened is told in four parts of the Holy Bible, known as the Gospels. The Gospel of St. Luke tells us the most about Jesus’ birth, and the Gospel of St. Matthew tells another part of the story. The Gospel of St. John tells us that Jesus Christ came from God to bring His word or message to all people.
The Gospel according to St. Mark has no story of Jesus’ birth. Instead, Mark’s story begins by describing Jesus’ adult life, introducing it with the words, “The beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ.”. Mark tells of John the Baptist, who predicts the coming of a man more powerful than himself. Christmas is celebrated for twelve days — from December 25 till January 6.
JUBEL D’CRUZ
Mumbai, India
Gas sufferings!
As lots of issues are being faced by the citizens of Karachi, a new issue has occurred to increase the hardships of the unfortunate citizens, as weather becomes atrocious and the basic necessity of the citizens is void! Gas load shedding! Many domestic consumers have been complaining about low gas pressure or not getting any gas at all since the beginning of winter in the city.
Now what else is remaining, we are suffering traffic issues, water shortage, sewerage issues as well as light, now the load- shedding of gas where we should go, the gas shortage is going on peak. Working class, men and women reach their offices late, household women become frustrated, as everyone knows that the 2nd spell of Covid-19 is around us, in this situation we can’t think to go outside but due to gas load-shedding the citizens have to go outside to dine, the life of the citizens in this situation is miserable.
It seems as we are moving to a new era of Stone Age. We, the citizens of unfortunate city, are looking towards the government to resolve this issue because this is our essential right and the duty of the government.
M TAHA MEHDI
Karachi
Problems faced in online classes
As educational institutions were closed by the government and it was said that online classes would be taken till 25th of December but there are lots of problems faced by students regarding online classes such as weak 4G coverage, shortage of accessories and foremost data bundles.
Price for data bundles offered by networks are high; a student can’t afford Rs.330 per week for only 15 Gbs which are consumed like a thirsty drinks water. Therefore, it is my request to the Education Minister (Shafqat Mahmood Esqr) please give students some relief as everyone is not financially stable and some are studying on scholarships.
NORAIZ AKHTAR
Sukkur,Sindh
Plight of women prisoners
Jail reform has been one of the long-standing and yet unaddressed issue in Pakistan. According to a recent report by Ministry of Human Rights and Federal Ombudsman report, women prisoners face a number of problems. Over-burdened jails, inadequate medical facilities, unhealthy environment, lack of access to legal counsel because of poverty are among other major issues inmates face.
Prisoner population is, sadly, left to their mercy and do not meet the international standards. Hence, it constitutes a serious human rights violation and, therefore, need radical and urgent reforms keeping in population and growing crime in mind. Moreover, second wave of Covid-19 and political manifesto of the PTI require urgent attention by the authorities before it is too late.
M SHAHJAHAN MEMON
Kamber Ali Khan, Sindh