The Hanging of Mir Quasem Ali

Pakistan has officially chided Bangladesh for hanging aged Mir Quasem Ali, convicted in a war crimes tribunal relating to 1971 war. This criticism seems shallow as Pakistan's own criminal justice system is disorganized and pathetic. The simple reason for such acrimony by foreign office is due to the past events which chains both nations together with pungency and abhorrence.
Foreign office doesn't have time to object to its citizen being beheaded regularly in Saudi Arabia by their courts in questionable circumstances. Bangladesh is already criticized by Amnesty international, Human rights watch and other organizations. The accused are not provided with lawyers and arbitrary limiting of witnesses to call upon. Although such is the state of affairs but Islamabad human rights record in such cases is even more dubious. In Bangladesh the accused are tried by civil courts in open while in Pakistan the accused are tried by military courts behind closed doors with no access to military records.
Mir Quasem matters because he was the head of Al Badr, worked closely with Pak Army to suppress the rebellion in east Pakistan.
Pakistan stands on two nation theory, as taught to us in school textbooks. One factor is that Hindus and Muslims are separate nations that cant coexist together. secondly, Muslims are an Ummah united by faith. There was no distinction of sects, caste, creed and color,
First factor is already irrelevant because Pakistan and India are two separate nations. Second factor begs some attention. The Hindus in Pakistan accounts for less than 2 percent of the total population and are continuously minimizing due to oppression, lack of opportunities and fear. They can not lead their normal life anymore.
Lack of love and concern for the neighbors i.e Iran and Afghanistan and continuous Saudi-Israeli nexus shows that Islamic solidarity and Ummah is also a fragile concept.
Even after paralyzing two nation theory in Pakistan in 1971, Ironically, Pakistan is still surviving and kicking. There is a subconscious push for being rational more and more and we are coming to terms with it. The recent CPEC phenomena is an interesting paradox. While pan Islamism lip service is there, we turn blind eye to communist china's aversion towards organized religions and Islam in particular.
Pakistan needs to push behind the two nation theory simply because a theory can not be the reason for the survival of a nation when we have come such a long way. Okay fine Pakistan is made, we have seen so much in the past and now that we have to move forward we are unable to carry the baggage of the theory and be realistic. After-all Argentina and Netherlands have no ideologies but both countries are flourishing.
We must understand that India only played the anchor role but not the critical role which is our incompatibility with the east Pakistan. This union had to come to an end. And Zulfiqar ali bhutto's famous speech of 'idhar hum udhar tum' dealt a final blow to it.
A piece of advice for Bangladesh, just shun the unfortunate events of the past and move on. The history and circumstances in which it was created was very painful but hanging aged humans connected to that past may not bring democracy, stability or peace.
Pakistan must stop teaching kids in the textbooks about the wrong perspective  of 1971, and kick-start a truth and reconciliation process with Bangladesh on this matter. Time to move on and turn the page for the better.

Source: http://www.dawn.com/news/1283160/the-hanging-of-mir-quasem-ali

Restructuring the state

After independence from British raj, Pakistan has been under achieving its potential as a state. The system needs complete overhaul to achieve the desired goals.  The system currently in place has not been effective and responsive to its citizens. This is the reality at hand. Following suggestions may help overcome some flaws in our system:
 To start with we should have small provinces. Punjab factor is putting strain on the country's weak polity. Some may cite this as a primary reason why east Pakistan separated from west. The postponing of national assembly session was just last nail in the coffin. Alienation and despondency is at rise due to Punjab factor at play. Other smaller provinces needs camaraderie from the big brother. Sense of deprivation needs to be cut short at the soonest.
Punjab, NWFP(Now Khyber Pukhtunkhwa), Sindh, Balochistan, Fata and Northern areas were made part of Pakistan on 14th august 1947 but except NWFP all other units were made part under a special British arrangements. These provinces came as a package therefore it is the need of the hour to reorient itself on new terms with changing circumstances, which they have every right to do so.
Balochistan be made into two administrative units. One is Balochistan states union and other is chief commissioner's province with Kalat and Quetta as its headquarters as it was in 1955. Bahawalpur state be made separate province like it was until 1955 arrangements. FATA be made a separate province. Let Sindh exist as a province with the exception of giving Karachi an elected lt-governor and empowered local government.
The democratic system also needs much needed overhaul. Feudal and corrupt politicians who inject money in politics to achieve their own illegal means. Therefore the proportional system of representation needs to be introduced to accommodate common man who can raise voice for themselves. This will instill feeling of participation and hence help in making strong federation.
The fact that many military regimes in our country had been successful in the beginning but decline with passage of time. Reason is their survival issue indulges them in compromises with the corrupt. Therefore a direct elected leader with every province electing leader on one man one vote basis. This will enable parliamentary system to keep check and balance on leader.
Criminal justice system is pathetic in its current situation. There should be three tier policing system. Federal, provincial and city. The criminal system must be redesigned in a way to provide least expensive, quick and visible justice to aggrieved party against the aggressor. Failing to provide justice will ultimately lower the faith of common masses regarding the state.
Our judicial courts needs to take regular suo moto to expose flaws in criminal justice system and encourage parliamentarians to make reforms.

Source: http://www.dawn.com/news/1282095/restructuring-the-state

The Pakistani state in its 70th year

A state is a proposition of governance bodies providing services to its citizens. A nation is a composition of history, culture, attitudes and beliefs. A functioning state may not mean it is making a nation because it can work for people of a specified region as well. But an effective functioning state is inclusive of all its subjects and therefore helpful ingredient in making a nation. This dilemma is still haunting the 70 year old Pakistan from its inception.
United states is a good example of a working state with tons of diversity but performing well as a nation.  The reasons why different ethnicity, religions and color of skins does not hinder nation making of USA is due to the state providing most of the citizens needs.
Question on hand is why Pakistan has not overcome the factors of ethnic and religious boundaries to make a nation?
Pakistan inherited its system from British raj's era which subjugated its citizens. It was highly undesirable. Some members of indian civil service opted to join Pakistan, the new born state. With this they took the system as well. Same ICS enabled British to consolidate power in India for more than century. Chaudhry Muhammad ali (one of Pakistan's earliest PMs) and Ghulam Muhammad (third gov general of pakistan) came from accounts. Iskander mirza came from Indian political service.  The hold of bureaucracy was strong due to the weakness of political system in Pakistan while neighboring India had strong political system due to which politicians were in full control. Bureaucracy weathered many storms in inception years of Pakistan.
In 1958 General Ayub injected military in administration and this civil-military combination took forward the country through next decade until Zulfiqar ali bhutto, a young promising politician amid some flaws burst on the scene. He failed and ultimately Zia took the reins of power and from there on until 30 years the country revolved around civil and military rules. In 2007, Pakistan version of Arab spring kick-started 4 years prior to real Arab spring of 2011. That enabled democracy to return. Now country is trying to make inclusive political order representative of all regions. This is the need of the hour which will bring us closer to the goal of becoming a nation and fulfilling its needs and requirements.

Source : http://tribune.com.pk/story/1175959/pakistani-state-70th-year/

Re-orienting Pak-US ties

                                 

US cutting of military aid is a blessing in disguise for Pakistan. It is beneficial for both the countries. Pakistan needs to reassess its strategic relations with USA and reorient its ties.
Pakistan's 70 year old flawed policies have failed miserably to deliver. This century is moving the focus from industrial economies to Knowledge economies and vision 2025 is the step in the right direction. But the success of this vision depends on the pillars we build for it in current years. Pakistan badly requires quality scientific and technological workforce.
Asian countries such as china and Korea are continuously expanding its horizons in research and development. The workforce returning to their countries after getting expertise in US institutions are the ones leading innovation and capacity building in those countries. China produces hi tech components as much as USA due to its trained workforce from USA institutes. Koreans are leading patent filers in OECD countries. Annual Chinese flow of students to USA is about 100,000 of total 459,800. India sends 132,000 students yearly out of which 80 percent are enrolled in STEMs programmmes. Indian origin research scientists and faculty members accounts for one million in USA, a growth of 85 percent from 2003 to 2013. They account to 3.3 percent of US research force as compare to 2.5 percent a decade ago. Out of immigrant start up companies at silicon valley, Indian start ups have increased from 26 to 33 percent since 2005, 15 percent of all startups.
Why USA a preferred destination?
Because world's 2/3rd of top 40 institutes lies in USA. Out of world's 870 Nobel award winners 356 had been from USA. 70 percent of all Nobel prize winners works in USA.
Forty percent of all research and technology development spending is based in USA and companies built by Stanford and MIT alumni generated 8.4 million jobs since 1930 and revenues in reach of 4.9 trillion $.
According to RAND the foreign students have enabled USA to develop its engineering and science work to develop faster. Those students returning back to their countries mentor their local countrymen about the current trends in the industry and set up research labs and also guide students to study in programmes at USA.
in 1989-90 students from Pakistan enrolled in US universities were 8158, which dropped to dangerously low level of 5354. If we compare with Indians 132888, the ratio becomes 1:25, (one Pakistani to 25 Indians.). Although population ratio between two countries is 1:7.
Nepal sends 8158, slightly less than 50 percent of total Pakistani students enrolled in US although Nepal's population is 28 million which is seven times less than Pakistan.
The Fulbright program is the world's largest exchange program. If we look at Pakistan's trend we observe that the focus is mostly on non STEM programmes by our students, Mostly do not go for PHD programmes and also to not so highly ranked universities. HEC overseas scholarships are also targeted on universities having no such huge reputation on world level.
The recent announcement of 10000 scholarships to students for USA is a step in the right direction although the drawbacks of past policies should be avoided and example of Asian economies needs to be followed to develop a base for knowledge based economy.
In short the fellowships will help establish the pillars for vision 2025 if focused on STEM programmes which will be mutually beneficial to Pakistan and USA.

Source: http://www.dawn.com/news/1282266/reorienting-pak-us-ties

The new great game

Chabahar port tripartite agreement has been inked by Afghanistan, Iran and china to develop strategically vital port. India is eyeing to target central Asia by passing Pakistan. Afghanistan being a landlocked country will benefit from this project manifolds as it grants them access to Indian ocean and onward to transport the goods again by passing Pakistan due to fragile relations the two neighbor countries enjoys. Iran get all the goodies from this project. Indians also think this project will ultimately enable them to influence Afghanistan and ultimately the central Asia.

The real question is will chabahar port rival Gwadar port?

The answer lies in many interesting ground realities which ultimately signals in negative.  Chabahar may provide three countries the corridor but India only get to transport good through this region to central Asia with only 50 million population. China is already leading the market there along with Russia because its goods are cheaper and less expensively transported to these regions. So Indian goods will have to be transported twice its price to those areas through Chabahar into Afghanistan and ultimately central Asia. Chinese competition may prove way too much.

 Gwadar is part of first step in China's vision of one road-one belt. The access to Gwadar will make Chinese powers of two oceans. USA will play a major player in this region and continue to do so for foreseeable future. Chinese prudently offered USA a stake in this project so as to minimize their animosity because they want to lessen the Chinese dominance. Although USA is favoring such move on papers but alternatively working with India and japan to counter Sino-Russian dominance in the region. 

Pakistan must work out plans to curb violence and insecurity inside the country and foreign threats to CPEC and ensure Chinese workers safety. For this purpose Pakistan has made a full battalion consisting of 8 brigades. For this  purpose 250 million dollars have already been sanctioned. 

CPEC is the answer to all the insecurities we have in the region and the stability of our country. Chinese are also interested to develope pakistan's social and economic structure to increase capacity building for this utmost important trade route. 

This is the new great game in the region and we must be vigilant enough to foresee problems and chalk out solutions for them.

Source: http://www.dawn.com/news/1264242/the-new-great-game

Who will defend the defenders?

United nations defines human rights defenders as all those professionals, non professionals, full time or part time individuals from any field whoa re advocating and promoting the cause of human rights protection.
Human rights defenders have been under pressure in Pakistan. They cant perform their duties with freedom. HRD's have minimum recognition as to the mammoth role they are playing in informing about human rights violations in different areas.
Pakistan's INGO policy and cyber crimes has adverse effects on HRD's performance in recent past. They have been under continuous scrutiny and the registration process has been made pretty tough for incoming organization to perform its job. In this atmosphere even genuine and working NGO's work is hampered.
Sec 34 of prevention of electronic crimes bill gives power to government to block access to information for various reasons including the glory of islam, integrity, security or defense of Pakistan.
Pakistan has also been active in blocking UN resolution to grant special status to HRD's and argues along with other allied countries that HRD's are not a special group and not under attack.
But if we look at murders and disappearances of human rights activists this claim is totally negated. In 2014 lawyer Rashid rehman was killed for contesting blasphemy case. Sabeen mehmud was killed reportedly by state agencies for creating awareness against religious extremism and some sources even say her role in awareness against missing persons caused her death.
In most circumstances, the state keeps mum or straightly denies allegations. This attitude needs to change if we are to prosper in 21st century.
First step in the right direction would be to make a law effective with suport of civil society to implement UN declaration on human rights defenders.
Secondly HRD's role must be considered praiseworthy and applauded. They should be involved in the policy making where they can prove handy. For example National human rights commission can contact HRD networks to make recommendations regarding future legislation to safeguard human rights situation in the country.
Indian NCHR has launched a website in 2010 and appointed a focal person. Website periodically updates about figures related to violations and actions taken against such crimes.
Time has come to shut the lip service and do some practical work to safeguard those who defends Human rights.


Source:  http://www.dawn.com/news/1261705/who-will-defend-the-defenders

Strategic liabilities

Indian PM Modi arrived in Tehran with a tweet in Persian to signal how he feels great being on the land of Cyrus the great. 

He walked away with inking 12 agreements including agreement to develop strategically important Chabahar port which will rival Gwadar port in future. 

This agreement will enable India to reach out north south corridor bypassing Pakistan and also reach out to Afghanistan. Afghanistan will also greatly benefit from this development. 

Its ironic when we consider afghan government's plea to use Pakistan's trade routes to transfer products to Afghanistan but Pakistan army bosses rejected any such adventure because it could have benefited India. 

Although it may have been beneficial for India, but more so in terms of Pakistan's ability to maneuver strategic trade ties to influence good relations on all outstanding issues because after-all its always a tussle of economic interests which might not have been overlooked by India or Afghanistan plus it could have generated the feeling of mutual trust among Afghanistan and Pakistan. 

India is investing in dams, roads and bridges while Pakistan is roping the old allies Taliban to the table which has been unreasonable on most occasion. This policy is unsuccessful and a recipe for disaster as it has been in the past. We cant sell dial up internet in fiber optics market for long and ask whats wrong with out product. Our product is simply not good enough!

Although USA has its own burden of failures sharing with NATO but the argument of Pakistan providing safe havens to Taliban and using them as strategic assets have turned all the burden on Pakistan although it might not be totally true. The reason for making a scapegoat out of Pakistan is not entirely on outsiders as our own think tanks are enough to make one with their unreasonable policies in the region.

Afghan president Ashraf ghani was favoring Pakistan over other neighbors but it didn't took long we handed him over in the lap of Modi.

One more ridiculous and unfortunate state of affairs is the lack of coordination in civil military relations. Angoor adda was handed over to afghans by the army in the name of fostering brotherly relations with neighbor country. Although cant term it a bad step but much worse is that interior minister is totally unaware of the incident. The afghans consequently closed the crossing and demanded 10 km inside Pakistan territory which led to a standoff recently. 

Source:  http://www.dawn.com/news/1261473/strategic-liabilities

Extremism in books

Pakistan is facing the menace of terrorism for over a decade now. The approach to deal with it is reactive rather than proactive.
The class based system of education has divided our society into fragments. Young kids are exposed to warfare and conflicts, sectarianism and ethnicity at primary level. Have we asked why this practice is continuing. It surely has the ability to produce unhealthy results for the future.
The classroom environment should not be strictly academic and school administration/teachers should invite environmentalists, police officials, law experts, gender rights activists and interfaith harmony speakers to nurture young minds on different values of a healthy society. Parroting official status quo arguments wont suffice to create a fruitful environment for inquisitive mind and problem solving atmosphere.
Our school teaching philosophy predominantly is one way which goes from teacher to student. Allowing students to express their mind and inclusive teaching methodologies can improve student's interest as well as ownership of education.
Students needs to be exposed to events after independence as well. They must be taught to initiate problem solving techniques and encourage independent thoughts.
The resources must be met for conducive learning environment. The students must not be over emphasized in case they are fatigued. Understanding your class and its psychology is paramount to get the positive results out of our education system.
NAP must outline quantifiable indicators on how the interfaith harmony, peace and love message is inculcated in students on a practical basis.
Constitution's 25 A clause binds government to provide education to all in the age bracket of five to 16. This requirement may be a blessing in disguise. Although its quite difficult to manage with scarce resources but there is sense of purpose both in provinces and on federal level, such goals can practically be achieved in short span of time.
Radicalization is a cancer which is eating away the fiber of our society so to counter this challenge we must foster peace love and tranquility among all faiths, sects, ethnicity to wipe out 3 decades of dark mindset of extremism inculcated in regime of General zia through different schemes. This is how our society can survive and progress in 21st century.


Source:  http://www.dawn.com/news/1261474/extremism-in-books

A historical dispute

GB's chilas district has a common boundary with KP's Kohistan district. There has been violent clashes in the past over grazing and water rights. People of GB had always been wary of the outsiders.

In the past British first invaded and integrated chilas into gilgit agency. People of GB opted for pakistan in 1947 plebiscite. They had to deal with regular army of Jammu and Kashmir too.

The governor of KP was appointed as agent of Federal government for GB in 1947.  Later its administration was transferred to ministry of Kashmir affairs in 1950. 

That time, Kohistan was made a part of KP which was traditionally a part of GB. 

The federation did not heed much to the issue of plebiscite and how it could damage the cause of Kashmir.

Ahmed hasan dani, a well known historian, is of the opinion that kohistan right upto jalkot was part of gilgit agency. This claim is backed by 2 letters ; one is from S,M. Fraser who was a resident in Kashmir to the chief commissioner of Peshawar in 1912 while other letter is from resident of Kashmir to survey of India on 12 June 1928, which confirms these areas under Gilgit agency.

People of GB have not raised much voice about giving kohsitan region to KP but there have been tribal clashes between harban on kp side and thor on gb side on water and grazing rights in 1950. Both elders from these areas met in a local jirga and inked a written agreement which states the area up-to bhasha stream belonging to people of thor. 

But later in a crucial development the survey of Pakistan mentioned the area of basri as part of koshistan without integrating the settlement of previous jirga. People of harban now claims the areas on the pretext of this survey made in 1960.

Complicity of KP government is also suspected. The turbine will be st in thee area claimed by harban. So net hydel profit will go to KP. There is also an opinion that since GB is not a province, it is not entitled to net hydel profit just like ajk is not entitled to mangla dam. 

Quite recently the situation deteriorated due to grievances which resulted in 5 deaths from both tribes. The dispute was later resolved by tribal elders who forgave the blood to each other and a boundary commission was also set by the government. 

Due to no interest of federation to solve the dispute the KKH was blocked by harban tribe and  huge number of rival people also gather which resulted into a standoff that could have been deadly.

The fragile peace accord between two tribes can not sustain because of the 8 billion dollars land settlement announced by the government. 

There is another outstanding disputer of shandur pass formerly under ghizer control now administered by KP. This can mean a loss of net hydel profit which GB residents are in no mood to accept. 

Ultimately CPEC's viability and security can come under scrutiny becuase of the tension flaming and engulfing nearby regions which could cause the future of multi-billion dollar project under jeopardy.

Centre is therefore requested to take keen interest in settling the disputes on both sides and provide handsome compensation and also make it binding on both sides. GB should also be given its due share in net hydel profits. Time is passing and the people of GB are looking at these developments from hawk eye. 

Source:  http://www.dawn.com/news/1261476/a-historical-dispute

To be or not to be

Few days ago David Cameron described Afghanistan and Nigeria as fantastically corrupt countries fortunately forgetting Pakistan in a recent anti corruption summit. Although panama-gate may prove to be the last nail in the corruption laden leaders coffins or maybe not.

Pakistan's Chief of army staff general Raheel shareef has taken a bold step to dismiss army personnel involved in corruption scandals. Even a lieutenant general was among the casualties of these dismissals. The army chief then conveyed a strong message to prime minister to quickly deal with the issue of panama scandal as it is thwarting our efforts to fight the menace of terrorism and other challenges facing Pakistan. 

Nawaz sharif maybe disgusted by the call from david Cameron's proposal to ban the black money pouring inside UK and name the beneficial owners of the property.

Some media analysts and experts are in favor of letting the bygones be bygones and accepting the corruption as a norm of this country. 

2050 is round the corner and it is expected that population will shoot up to 350 to 400 million. There are much more dangerous trends coming up to haunt the nation. These are water shortage, Power, climate, food insecurity, health and hygiene,education, law and order, medieval budgetary allocations, nuclear doctrines and deployments, no war no peace and zero sum regional strategies. All these problems are not worrying our elected enemies?

In the name of reconciliation all the misdemeanors are swept under carpet in this godforsaken country. Although panama accusations are enough to oust leaders of civilized world out of their office. PM's moral defeat has made him low on credibility and with this situation looming he can no more command authority over matters of morality and legal importance in this country. The country of Quaid and Allama Iqbal stands shameful in current situation to the ideal on which it was built. 

COAS has thwarted PM's move to blackmail him  by refusing to take extension. Now all the heat is behind PM to deliver on promises of nibbing corruption by starting accountability from himself.

Civilian and Military's non compliance of judicial orders have brought constitution into disrepute in the past. 

Learning from the past, Millitary rule is no answer to the contentious issues facing the country either..

No PM can dictate terms of investigation of his/her own legitimacy and accountability. Parliament can impeach the PM but apparently its a rubber-stamp.

As PM is the prime suspect, his investigation must be prioritized. No country can run with the PM accused of stealing money from its country. Other individuals accountability must also follow the due process.

One possibility for the deadlock to end is by calling early elections and the accused be not allowed to contest until cleared by the investigating authorities. UN can play a role to ensure free and fair elections because of the tarnished image of election commission of Pakistan.

Army can also assist the investigation  but never to step out of its boots and start a new misadventure which leaves the country on perpetual road of devastation.

Sources:   http://www.dawn.com/news/1258143

Death of diversity

                                                 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           



Bangladesh has seen a wave of violent religious extremism in the recent times. Bloggers. secular minded people, human rights and LGBT activists were targeted with impunity. Some of the culprits have identifies their tied with extremist group ISIS. This trend has already been seen by Pakistan where people opposed to religious fanaticism were targeted.

Other Islamic countries have seen an upward spiral in violence in the name of religion. Recently Elif Shafak, a Turkish writer expressed that its hard to live as gay, Jew, Armenian or Kurd in turkey and belonging to them will make one eligible for persecution through different means. In Pakistan identifying yourself as Ahmedi, Hazara, christian, Hindu and Sikh may complicate matters for you and a life threatening situation can develop. Recently and Ahmedi was murdered in Glasgow which is a western city. He was accused of insulting Islam supposedly. Attitudes like these have been developed due to saudi exported extremist propaganda which is a strict interpretation of Islam. This mindset has damaged South Asian Sufi origins and mystic preaching of peace, hence giving way in favor of war and destruction and terming others as non-believer while considering oneself epitome of piety. It is highly hypocritical when Muslims complain that they aren't allowed to build a mosque in west while the ban on building synagogues, churches and temples in Saudi Arabia is silently ignored. Muslims go to foreign countries but never socialize fully with the environment and like to spend lives in seclusion. They don't immerse themselves in others culture while they want others to adopt to Muslim's culture which seems highly unlikely. Unless Muslims shun this hypocritical attitude we may see many Donald trumps speaking up for millions against Muslim and in favor of banning Muslims.


Source:  http://www.dawn.com/news/1258146

Two years of Modi

Two years back Narendra Modi was sworn in as Indian prime minister in the same month of may. Situation has since got worse as banks are performing poorly due to lack of accountability. Farmers are committing suicides. Modi has been pushing for congress free India. BJP led coalition has minority in upper house so it needs opposition's support in this regard. In may 19 elections in 5 states, BJP was the winner as it routed congress out of Assam with comfortable win. BJP performed well in other states as well. The cheap tactics by Modi has been seen by many as very unlike PM behavior. He accused Sonia Gandhi for her descent country Italy with a multi-million dollar scam in Agusta-west land helicopter deal with italy. Modi has also played two master strokes. Firstly he appointed Amit shah his longtime confidante, to BJP presidency and secondly he set aside old stalwarts like L.K. Advani, Yashwant sinha and Murli Manohar joshi to aside. He also made a fundamentally political change in governance. While meeting 50 secretaries from different departments, he suggested that in case of any inconvenience dealing with ministers, the matter should be presented before PM. This in effect is an effort to surmount powers and centrality to PM's office and micro manage the government whilst angering ministers at the same time. Modi's foreign policy has been pretty much criticized. India has been unable to woo nepal and its blockade for 5 months have pushed Nepal to seek help from India's arch rival china. nepal also cancelled a presidential visit 3 days before schedule and also recalled its ambassador to delhi. Sri Lankans are also accommodating Chinese in the region. Pakistan's relations are baffling because of the Modi's 4 hour notice short trip to Nawaz Sharif's home and then sudden fall out of the talks. Modi's  attitude and mentality towards chinese border disputes with india is also fundamentally flawed. The only policy which has a clear direction is Hindutva. Ghar wapsi, prohibition of cow slaughter, and many attacks on Muslims, Christians and Sikhs signals towards direct or tacit approval of violence by the regime against minorities. Recent state department statistics also reflect the sorry state of affairs and persecution faced by minorities from Hindu extremists in various parts of India. The real issue is Modi's criminal silence over such issues. This attitude needs to be changed if India was to enjoy respect and appreciation for being the biggest democracy and secular state in the world.

Source:  http://www.dawn.com/news/1258145

Dreams and rude reality

Panama paper scandal  has marred Sharif family's image and suggestions were made about PM's complicity in corruption scandal. When the scandal first surfaced, Sharif family made some unwise moves in the backdrop of poor counsel by his aides. Efforts were made to clean Maryam's name (PM's daughter) from the paper because she has been trained by Nawaz sharif as her political heir. But these efforts were as miscalculated as the damage control by Washington with respect to Wikileaks scandal. But difference is that Washington did all this in the name of national security while the other did this for their personal reputation. Maryam already has considerable influence in controlling government policies as well as, she is looking after the social media team of PML-N. Maryam's brother hussain nawaz was interviewed by hamid mir of Geo and program was aired in january. Eight weeks later Hussein nawaz re-appeared in another interview with javed chaudhary. Hussain nawaz accepted to be the owner of park lane properties, which were named in panama papers as being controlled through offschore accounts. This event led to unearthing of a political upheavel by the opposition camp. Hussain nawaz defended his ownership and argued that luxury flats were bought after he got his share from the sale of a steel mill in Saudi Arabia in 2005-06. Although many Sharif family confidants of the past have stated that these properties were owned by PM back in 1990's. So there seems some grey areas in their details if we look at their statements to the media. Think tanks inside Sharif family believes that let the bygones be bygones. They have paid for all the crimes through a coup and persecution thereafter by the military dictator. PPP share same philosphy when it was in power back in 2008 even though NRO was thrown out by Supreme court. They also believed it was their right to take commercial advantages because of their sacrifices of the past. It will worsen the situation if public start protesting such misgivings by politicians, judges, generals and media persons. It will be horrific of such anger translate into violent extremism. It is high time Pakistan needs South African styled truth and reconciliation commission. All the stakeholders needs to come clean on their sins of the past and move on and give this country a better direction. Although when one wakes up to the reality  and sees the environment, one feels its like an impossible task to achieve.

Source: http://www.dawn.com/news/1258144

Exit control

Recently FIA submitted an amusing report before the honorable court pertaining to the arrest of former president general Pervez Musharraf. FIA submitted reply that when officials from the agency went inside Musharraf's home, he was not there and already went outside the country. The fact is that exit control lists are managed by FIA as well as the immigration counters through which he passed. The court has already proclaimed the former strongman as proclaimed offender in treason case. It is ironic that 2 former PM's belonging to PPP had been on exit control list since 2013 and their alleged crime is smaller than treason charges leveled against General(R) Musharraf. The inability of civil institutions to deliver justice when it comes to ex military man has exposed the fault-lines in our country. It is well known to informed sources how government is pressured into making such a deal to release Musharraf and not to pursue the case as vehemently as they were doing in the beginning. There must also be a fair game for ex service men, politicians and common people, justice should be equal for everyone, which is a universal standard.



Source: http://www.dawn.com/news/1257992

Bangladesh executions

A shocking development has taken place where chief of Bangladesh opposition party Jamaat e Islami's Matiur rehman nizami has been executed in Dhaka on pretext of treason. It needs to be noted that with his execution the tally of hangings have reached 5 with four of them from Jamaat and one from BNP led by former prime minister Khalida zia, were executed last year. Astonishing fact, Saqqa chowdhury BNP was in Karachi when civil war happened in Bangladesh. It seems that sheikh Hasina is determined to eliminate opposition by hook or crook. Awami league has been silent on the wave of militancy and extremism across Bangladesh and plainly denies Al Qaeda and ISIS for this but seems like culprits are using same literature to target bloggers, activist and civil society members. Need of the hour is to remember the tripartite agreement sheikh Hasina's father, Founder of Bangladesh Mr Mujib ur Rehman signed in New Delhi where he pledged to forget the past and not to pursue criminal cases against people affiliated with east Pakistani establishment of the time. Sheikh Hasina must address the longstanding and chronic problems of the people like poverty, joblessness and eliminating extremism. 

Source:  http://www.dawn.com/news/1257778

Ali Gilani's rescue

Ali Haider gillani, son of former prime minister of Pakistan, was rescued from Taliban captivity after an Afghan-US raid in Afghanistan's Paktika province. Earlier on may 9 2013, Ali haider was abducted from his hometown Multan after attending a political congregation while his secretary and bodyguard were shot dead on the spot. According to US officials he was held by Al-Qaeda affiliated group, possibly Pakistani Taliban. Its unclear whether US-Afghan forces acted to rescue the high profile abductee or they stumbled upon him in a pure coincidence or whether Pakistan's intelligence had some role in pinpointing the target. Although all those questions are unanswered but the environment has become surprisingly good. After all, intelligence sharing can prove to be critically important for counter insurgency in both countries, the cooperation which was lacking previously and resulted in major security disasters. Although many untold stories of abductees who are languishing in captivity awaits such actions, it indeed is a good omen for starting of new relationship based on intelligence sharing and common security objectives.



Source: http://www.dawn.com/news/1257779

Saudi-Iran Hajj row

Iran and Saudi Arabia are on a collision course this year amid the hajj season looming. Hajj is an important element of Muslim faith. This situation has been fueled by the execution of Shia cleric Nimr-al-nimr in recent past by the Saudi kingdom on pretext of treason in mass protests in 2011-2012 in the backdrop of Arab spring. The deadlock has been exacerbated by the absence of Saudi mission in Tehran for processing visa to Iranian citizens. Iran wants visas to be issued by Swiss embassy which looks after interests of Iran in Riyadh. Iran and Saudi have adopted inflexible positions which has made the middle east a battlefield of two different ideologies longing for supremacy. Syria and Yemen are prime examples of such hostile attitude and adversarial approaches by the two countries. This deadlock is a reflection of deep mistrust and animosity between two regional powers. Furthermore Pakistan has also failed to play a mediator role in such crisis as Swiss has superseded us in dealing with this issue as 3rd party. The talks are continued although Iranian minister has almost lost hope of the settlement this year. This will be a great shame if Muslims are deprived of performing hajj, which is one of the five pillars of Islam, due to political reasons,



Source: http://www.dawn.com/news/1258140

Cricket coach

Pakistan cricket board has finally announced Mickey Arthur as the new head coach of Pakistan cricket team after an excruciating process, and refusals by high profile coaches to coach the national team. Mickey Arthur is an experienced coach but this job will perhaps be one the most difficult if not "the most difficult" one. This is a challenge which has been accepted by other foreign coaches before him as well. Mickey will most certainly be hoping for settling in as early as possible and build up a right team and identify players for future. The discipline of key players like Ahmad shehzad and Omar akmal has been below par. In Pakistan one can easily get away with discipline issues thanks to tolerant PCB and team management, as has happened in the past. Mickey Arthur has showed signs he will not tolerate such things anymore in the team. Pakistan is facing a difficult period after poor performances in year and a half. Only time will tell how successful mickey will be in turning around the fortunes of Pakistan cricket team.



Source: http://www.dawn.com/news/1257991

CASA moves ahead

A landmark regional power transmission line project has kick-started few days ago between four states i.e Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan and Pakistan. Pakistan will receive 1000 MW power supply from this project. This project is viewed as the first regional power supply line between central and south Asia and the region has tremendous potential for cooperation in power sector. It is also viewed as a first step in binding together, the Asian states in mutually beneficial economic arrangements. There are principally two main obstacles to the success of this project. First one is the flawed pricing or tariff policy which is limping from 1990's. Secondly security is of paramount importance. Already trouble in Afghanistan has surged the costs which will ultimately reflect in tariff policy later on. The success of this project depends on reforms and structuring the plans for these two issues. Pakistan must also explore other options in the region for cooperation in transport, natural resources, power and many more sectors. We can safely say that CASA 1000 is a good start in the right direction and with sound policies to make this project successful we can embark on new horizon of our economic prosperity with converging interest of the region.



Source:   http://www.dawn.com/news/1258141

Dangerous Industry

Pakistan's development at 7 pc seems justified when one looks at the high rise buildings, new residential schemes and construction going on across Karachi metropolitan. In fact construction sector contributes 2.4 pc in GDP of Pakistan.
But it is hard to contemplate the unsafe conditions the 4.5 million construction workers are working on daily basis. It makes 7.3 pc of total  workforce of 61 million in Pakistan. Most of the workers are season based with average wage of 12032 rupees per month. They work project to project and shuttle around. Most of them belong to uneducated poor backgrounds from rural Sindh, south Punjab and KP. Due to their lack of education they can not negotiate high wages and entitlements like social security, medical care and paid leave. Construction sector is second unsafe with regards health and safety risks after agriculture industry. Health and safety injuries have bounced from 14.1 pc in 2013-2014 to 16.3 in 2014-2015. There are no plans by employers in place to increase the skill set of workers and educate them about the  safety and health risks. Informality in industry has increased from 13.8 pc in 2005 to 16.4 pc in 2015. Subcontractors do not enforce use of protective equipment and safety and health standards of ILO. Although lack of education and ignorance of workers also contributes to compromise of enforcement but its doesnt absolve the employers from their responsibility. There is  a troika when it comes to issue resolution of construction or any sector in the world. State representatives, employers and labor unions. Unfortunately laws have prevented such unions from either working fully functional or altogether eliminating the chance of building such unions. Therefore the troika is broken and workers rights are not safeguarded which results in workers safety and heath catastrophes across the country.


Source: http://www.dawn.com/news/1258391/dangerous-industry

Pro-people policies

U5MR is the organization which gives country-wise figures about under 5 mortalities for every 1000 births. In this list Pakistan, India and Bangladesh's rate is 86, 56 and 41. These figures invites many questions in our minds? Does climate has anything to do with less mortalities in Bangladesh. Does per-capita income adds up-to this situation or pro-people policies are the reason. Lets examine the questions:

a) Maybe in the past the ratio was somewhat the same?
In 1990 Bangladesh was scoring low as compared to Pakistan. 138,126 and 144 respectively in same order i.e Pakistan, India and Bangladesh.

b) Maybe Bangladesh is richer than Other 2 and spends more on health?
Gross national income per-capita is 1260,1530 and 840 in the same order i,e Pakistan, India and Bangladesh.

c) Toilet facility and repercussions if not available?
People defecate in open with ratio of 21, 50 and 1. These figures are accounted for all the imprecision which seems staggering. In 2002, corresponding percentage for Bangladesh was as high as 42 percent.

Problem found:
Open air defecation results in diseases like diarrhea which leads to weakness of nutrition retention by the body and results in a fatality.

There is abundance of hospitals which is growing at alarming rate along-with hospital based physicians.
It is imperative to kick start pro-people policies like providing clean drinking water and sanitation facilities to its citizens in order to show to public that the government cares for them. Bangladesh has shown that it is very much possible.


Source: http://www.dawn.com/news/1258390/pro-people-policies

Vultures circling

Panama papers scandal is getting new turns with each passing day. Imran khan's political ambitions, undemocratic agenda of section of the media and military interests may all be relevant in this fiasco. But Nawaz handling of this issue in foggy style is a grave mistake. He has not presented himself before scrutiny unlike his contemporary leaders in the world. In current scenario, game is set to oust PM. The options few options which may  in spur such results. They are:

1- Vote of no confidence against PM
But this outcome is highly unlikely in the backdrop of 18 amendment which bars Member of assembly's vote of no confidence against their own party. While this way an ouster is virtually impossible but suppose a PML-N MNA votes against PM, it would be contested by MNA's in assembly who voted in favor of PM but the constitutional validity of such a vote will need Supreme court's ratification. In the meanwhile whole nation will know the unpopularity of PM in the house before any such decision is made which will reap dividends for Opposition's cause. Although wooing PML-N MNA'S might be easier than having all the opposition vote against PM.
2- Imran Khan factor
Imran khan has to turn towards the street power option and kick PM out by engineering extremely well managed protests which must be on the pretext of 'Go nawaz Go' and greater in magnitude from october 2011 phenomena.
3- Raheel option
Raheel may ask PM to step down in country's interest.
4- Same NA different PM or NA only elections
What are nawaz options?
1- Call early elections
Nawaz can call early elections and hope people will steer him back in the power for 4th term
2- Play martyr card
Nawaz has the option to annoy Army and PTI to do something unconstitutional and take him out of the power. This kind of move has the potential to backfire on aggressor parties and play into PML-N's favor.
Although Panama papers developments in pakistan may be related to Imran's power hunger, Army's dream of capitalizing on weak government or undemocratic agenda of some sections of media, but most importantly its Nawaz himself who is to blame for all the mess by hiding behind his actors and not taking bold steps to present himself and his family for scrutiny.

Source:  http://www.dawn.com/news/1258389/vultures-circling

America's whipping boy

US is getting close to Pakistan's arch enemy india in order to contain china in the region. There is pressure on Pakistan to extradite Shakil afridi, set free the other doctor Who was hired by CIA responsible for taking Osama bin laden's DNA from Abbottabad hideout and take strong action against Haqqani network. Shakil afridi case is pursued vigorously by US to boast its success post OBL operation and to show to the spies roaming around Pakistan that US never leave its friends in difficult times. In essence this attitude surmounts to US arrogance in the Pak-US relations. Although Shakil afridi release would have been on the cards in the backdrop of softening on Washington's side to compensate 29 families of Pak soldiers killed in an airstrike by US drone but apparently this move could meet public's backlash and anger. When Pakistan started zarb e azb to curb militancy including Haqqanis, most fighters crossed border into Afghanistan.. Kabul also opposes fencing of durand line. It seems to be a plan to encircle Pakistan and put blame for the woes of Afghanistan and US failures in fighting militancy inside Afghanistan. Furthermore Kabul and new Delhi is harboring TTP to destabilize Pakistan. Hypocrisy of the situation is that when Pak army started zarb e azb operation, US and afghan forces pulled out of safe havens for TTP in adjoining afghan areas. It amounts to complicity with Delhi and a scheme to disrupt the peace in Pakistan.  This attitude is also  making Pakistan's fight against terror because of US-Afghanistan non-cooperationUS is also pushing Islamabad to show restraint in nuclear theater show. In recent US backed nuclear summit, Obama admonished both countries but did not account for the Indian aggressive cold start maneuvers on forward positions along border which prompted such response from Pakistan. Washington continuously arms Indians with sophisticated arms and technology. As US is asking Pakistan to show restraint, Islamabad has every right to ask US to limit Indian aggressive moves to save region from becoming a nuclear flash-point.



Source: http://www.dawn.com/news/1258387/americas-whipping-boy

PM's Opportunity in parliament

Pakistani PM Mr Nawaz Sharif has postponed his visit to parliament until Monday. Panama papers has inflicted a controversy surrounding his family's offshore accounts. Democrats around the world named in such scandals have been subjected to tough scrutiny and they were willing to give details about the issue. David Cameron had to come to parliament and faced hostile opposition but he produced his father's panama papers explanation and replied to all the queries subjected at his role in such controversy. Iceland's PM had the dignity to step down from his post. It is those times when we comes secondary to state's interest and democracy, even though it is PM. Its the call of time that shuts his party's actors out of the scene, come forward by himself and face the scrutiny about himself and his family. Opposition should also provide PM with this opportunity to express everything within parliament to settle the fog around his legitimacy. This will strengthen our democracy and democratic values. Source: http://www.dawn.com/news/1257993/pms-opportunity-in-parliament

What is LSBE? (Life skills-based education)

Indus resource center is creating awareness on reproductive health through girls education project funded by David and Lucille Packard foundation. Reproductive health has direct link links with population growth which is one of the chief concerns of today's world. Questions of family size, pregnancy spacing, status of women and age of marriage should be integrated in national population schemes. In conservative society questions of sexuality and reproductive health can not be openly discussed therefore it is packaged in a way to get accepted in larger audience. Adolescents needs to know about their bodies and their emotions. Talking about it can change mindset on inter personal relations, human rights, art of communication and most importantly lead towards women empowerment. There is no tools to measure the effectiveness of LSBE on adolescents but IRC claims that some changes are visible. The idea is to create awareness in boys and girls about health and hygiene,drug addiction, Interpersonal relationship, violence, how to communicate your feelings and overcoming peer pressure. There is a grave need to impart LSBE in community schools. The author gives example of Jibran who was having difficulty answering questions relating to his emotions, personality and desires at the age of 14. but further elaboration made him to discuss his ideas with the teacher. Many boys and girls need to be taught how to communicate and negotiate in order to take his or herself out of a difficult situation. Discuss their positive and negative traits, and how to over come them. Unfortunately there is only one way of teaching methodology in most of the schools across Pakistan, so student don't get much to discuss which is the other side of flow. Shabana rajput is an example of a teacher who discuss LSBE with students and so far getting a good response from them. She also interacts with parents of her female students condition and how to make improvement from parent side too. Maria Montessori has a very interesting model of teaching which says 'four planes of development of a child is a series of rebirths' and one needs to know about them. Source: http://www.dawn.com/news/1257998/what-is-lsbe

Reason vs Power Players (Panama papers and accountability)

Panama papers phenomena has emerged across the globe as Ukraine and Iceland's heads of state have tendered their resignation for investigation to go ahead unhindered while Brazilian president Dilma roussef has been suspended in impeachment process. David Cameron has also faced severe criticism in parliament. In Pakistan, opposition seems to have moral, logical high ground in demanding accountability of the corrupt. But PM has the required characters to divert the attention from government. Therefore the saga will continue to unfold. Army's call for solution to this deadlock is tailor made for opposition to chant favorable slogan for the strongman but the issue is not looking to be solved merely by a snub. PM is also not in a mood to step back as historically he has been pressurized into. Presently everybody is required to hoold their heads and devise a solution to catch corrupt and punish them and this route can make Pakistan on an optimistic road to accountability. Imran Khan will continue to explore short term solution anyhow, but real problem with his campaigning is the hole in his boat, his wing-men who also have offshore accounts. This has tarnished PTI'S rhetoric and exposed by government actors. One PTI leader challenged PML-N that he is ready to bring back offshore accounts provided PM does the same. This is en effect equalizes both PTI and PML-N over the issue. Big media houses and lawyers are guilty of unduly supporting government point of view looking as if hardcore PML-N supporters more than experts. They severely criticized opposition more so PTI and sometimes PPP as well. This one sided approach has jeopardized the search for a feasible accountability solution to throw corrupt behind bars. Recently disclosed offshore accounts of Jahangir tareen and Aleem khan has not invited calls for accountability across the board but unfortunately these issues were used to justify PM's secret offshore accounts which is regrettable. For now Aitezaz and company can hope for a miracle because media, NGOs, lawyers and for the time being army is silent on this issue. This has not yet been dubbed as people's problem so time is going to tell whether this issue will become people's issue or just drain out like other issues. Source: http://www.dawn.com/news/1258000/reason-versus-power-players

Ultimate tax Haven (Tax reforms)

Most recently there is a huge hue and cry over 600 Pakistanis from different sectors having offshore accounts to manage their wealth. Although not all of them can be described as illegal provided sources of income are justified and the taxes are paid. But nobody is paying attention to huge non-payment of tax returns in our own country marred by sluggish tax collection system. Over 4 to 5 million people evade taxes annually. 1.1 million Pakistanis pay taxes out of which 600,000 pay some amount of it through voluntary tax regime. it accounts to 0.24pc or 1 out of 375 people. Compared to our neighbor India whose collection is 2.7pc. Indirect taxes such as tax on telecom, utility,petroleum and consumables are not a substitute for direct tax filing. 1.9pc of total population are registered as taxpayers which accounts to 60 percent potential tax base. But practically only 0.45 percent file taxes which accounts for 15 percent of total population base. 0.24pc filed tax returns as part of tax filing and assessment regime which is 534000 citizens or 1 in 375 persons. Only 36838 people give more than 50000 in income tax annually. Corporate sector is giving 77 pc taxes. personal income tax is 23 percent. Out of .5 million registered doctors only 14000 gives income tax. similarly .5 million registered lawyers and only 5000 practicing lawyers file tax returns. Most of government revenues originates from taxation on petroleum and remaining is pumped from 1 pc of large corporate sector. Experts believe this system to be highly inequitable and unsustainable in long run. Small net of Corporate sector is bearing heavy burden and new investments are stalled in the economy. This situation is affecting job creation, which is giving rise to informal economy which will hurt social mobility of labor force in future. Due to such poor performance of tax collection, public is suffering from quality service deliver as government is suffering from precarious condition due to funds drought and priority based spending on well off areas. Government has also lost opportunity to impose equitable tax on huge revenue garnering real estate and equity market. While poor has been badly affected by inflation tax which is due to government's recovery of budgetary shortfalls. Pakistan needs due attention on its tax reforms and shorten the rich poor gap by implementing such reforms and also decrease tax authorities influence to succeed such steps. Source: http://www.dawn.com/news/1258002/ultimate-tax-haven

After the F-16 saga

The sale of F-16's to Pakistan has been tied with conditions. The government is taking this development as a habit of past from Washington which is recurring again after US interests are fizzling out of the region in the backdrop of most of the troops withdrawing from Afghanistan. It has been observed that Pakistan-USA relationship has seen persona based cooperation. Musharraf and Bush administration is a glaring example. They cooperated each other because both needed each other's hand. Bush wanted an ally for its adventure in Afghanistan against Taliban. Musharraf government was low on credibility so it needed world recognition. Although US establishment believes it has helped Pak government in crucial financial stages to benefit its ally in the past. But common masses in Pakistan views this aid based cooperation with regime which were low on credibility rather benefiting common man. Pakistan has always fallen behind achieving revenue and tax targets. It directly affects pak's ablity to purchase advanced military hardware. This economic vulnerability is exposed by Washington to its advantage and blackmailing pak's feeble government to bow to its feet by raising Shakil afridi release issue. Pakistan also seems to be in a precarious situation because it is hard to think Pak government will alter plans to buy a subsidized F16's in favor of other expensive aircrafts because its exchequer is not in that sound shape. On the other hand Russia is showing interest in selling Su-35 planes to Pakistan after deal with Chinese. US had imposed sanctions after fall of soviet union on Pakistan in 1990 and held delivery of F16's after Pressler amendment, which were lifted after a decade. Golden question is will Pakistan be in a position to fulfill its requirements from its own after successful Jf-17 cooperation with Chinese. We have to wait and watch! Source: http://www.dawn.com/news/1257997/after-the-f-16-saga

Military court sentences

Three death sentence grantees from military court got stay in their sentences from Supreme court of Pakistan. The families of convicts asserted that the lawyers of their choice were denied. The military courts didn't allowed them to examine state evidences against accused. Military courts can not maintain standards of fair trial. seems like supreme court is standing in way of total compromise of constitution by military courts. But paradox is visible as supreme court itself stamped approval previously on pretext of 21st amendment. So those seeking remedy from SC can not tie higher hopes. Furthermore Peshawar high court has turned down many appeals to commute death sentences to lesser punishments, as SC has not outlined grounds for successful appeal. A sunset clause infers that in January parliament's reaffirmation is needed for military courts to proceed further. So its a possibility that military courts may wind up soon in case of parliament's disapproval. The ironic question for those who pushed for military courts is that in 2 years post APS attack, the price of hampering and destroying constitution worth convicting 76 people in 18 months? Alternatively with focused approach and integration of effort from different institutions, a reformed criminal justice system could have been achieved in same time period. After 2 years military court tenure due to expire, we are left with sluggish criminal justice system and host of legal issues originating from an ill-suited idea with foreseen outcomes. Source: http://www.dawn.com/news/1257780/military-court-sentences

Believing in Khan (Sadiq Khan Newly elect London Mayor)

"My name is khan and i am the mayor of London."

These were the words of newly elect mayor of London. It holds a symbolic importance. Sadiq khan showed surprise that someone from lower middle class South-Asian background could actually become mayor of the historic and one of the most important and influential capitals of the world. The poll results also goes on to show that people have not bought fear mongering arguments from zac goldsmith camp. Tolerance has been adopted. This election was not based on discussion of actual issues facing Londoners, but politics of personalities. Khan a son of a driver and zac belonging to a well-known wealthy and glamorous family of London. Some Muslims were angered by the remarks of Khan on wearing of veils in Muslims society. But most of them were proud as one of them have actually reached the higher echelon of power to initiate their well being. This election saw faith being highlighted on many occasions. As khan previously shared stage with extremist Muslim, zac asked khan tough questions about which kind of Muslim he really was? Some assert that this cross questioning will be haunting khan in office too and he wont be able to safeguard rights of Muslims. As khan is a Muslim it is also feared by some that anti Muslim policies will be pursued on the shoulders of khan and none will be in position to question him due to his Muslim background. Khan has to prove his loyalty to crown time and again. Another interesting development took place as well, George Galloway has always garnered strong support of Muslim community due to his robust criticism of western policies against Muslims in middle east. But this time Galloway slipped to just 1 percent vote because a Muslim was running for office. Now Galloway plans to run for election from khan's vacant seat in south London. There is a paradox among liberals, they openly criticize religion when it come to discourse in general but interestingly they accommodate people of other faith. That animosity is no longer to be seen. The reason may be the sensitivity towards their former colonial subjects and their willingness not to hurt their sentiments anymore. But one thing is for sure, a regular church goer is surely laying off some liberal voters unless he is sadiq khan, a Muslim! Source: http://www.dawn.com/news/1257781/believing-in-khan

Ban if you can..

Recent banning of the Movie 'Maalik' has sent shock waves across the country. Series of blame game has gripped the country and a serious discourse is taking place. Some argue in favor of banning the movie while many are totally against it. Critics argue that ban is due to the portrayal of real face of politicians which has disturbed politicians. This is against freedom of expression. The politicians are suspicious that there could be an ISPR hand behind such movies to malign politicians specifically. But if we take a look at the events, we can analyse the scenario by classifying society into 2 classes. Underclass is a huge proportion of the population effectively ignored in the ownership of the state. If they come into trouble, no one is there to save them. They have to pay or face the the trouble. The facilities like health, water, education and sanitation largely depends on mood of the state official not the birth right of underclass citizens. For underclass merit and end to corruption wont make them jump up the ladder of social and economic prosperity. Their only ray of hope is the connection to politician which enables state patronage. Another class is over class. They have got to a position of getting English based education and financially sound through their fathers and forefathers. This wealth either acquired through colonial incentive or civil service of their recent ancestors. In emergency they always have some to cover up a problem. This over-class is epitome of skills, knowledge and wealth. This class wants end to corruption and provision of facilities like a developed state. The significance of this class is that they shape opinions and image across the globe. The politicians need to fill the gap and turn to huge population which is their fan base. Then take over class on board for necessary reforms. Banning malik will not dispel bad perception of politicians but allowing it will improve the impression. Source: http://www.dawn.com/news/1257782/ban-if-you-can

Encompassing CPEC

Pakistan and china has inked a landmark deal to build an economic corridor and china has pledged 46 billion dollars in different projects. This route will provide china with an alternate short passage to transport its goods to middle-east and the world in shortest time. Pakistan has announced to build a full army division to safeguard Chinese personnel who are working on the project. China also has 2 alternate routes i.e trans-Siberian rail network and Eurasian land bridge. But CPEC is the shortest route of all these. It will help china industrialize its western provinces as well as quash security concerns i.e Sinkiang province with economic prosperity. GB is a disputed region. Its geographical position is to the north and its constitutional status is contradictory. Pakistan has planned the only economic zone on Karakorum highway which in effect ignores most of GB region from benefits of CPEC. It also seems that Pakistan government is more keen to develop eastern alignment as oppose to western on priority basis albeit protests by two smaller provinces. Astore district and most of baltistan region is ignored in proposed project. It is suggested that road links and projects planned in the entire region. Another study by informed residents proposed alternate passage. It goes from thalachi at KKH to astore district leading up to rattu and conects to muzaffarabad leading to islamabad. Another bypass is from jaglot to skardu, where a non metaled road leads it to rattu. This arrangement will in effect save project from disruption of Landslides and harsh weather. People of the areas will be contented, which will guarantee the success of CPEC unlike the hastily planned projects only in 2 province i.e Punjab and sindh. It is imperative to look into grievances of the other concerned parties as well. Source: http://www.dawn.com/news/1257784/encompassing-cpec

Starting blog for learning purposes: Source Dawn/The News editorials