SOME may call it the Gandhara civilisation, but we consider these relics as a symbol of human civilisation. …Relics of this civilisation have been smuggled in the past, but this time the Karachi police succeeded in foiling the bid [to smuggle statutes]. …For the common man these statues might be no more than stone idols but for those who are aware of history and want to preserve its remnants these are valuables. These are the signs that indicate in which period of history man was at what stage of civilisation. These relics are not the heritage of any one religion, nation or country, they are, in fact, the heritage of all humanity. When civilisation is viewed in the mirror of history, it will be seen as beyond the borders of countries and religions.

The remnants of Mohenjodaro are before us. If these remnants were not there, how would one able to assess the stage of civilisation of a people who lived in this land some 5,000 years ago? Mohenjodaro might be representing Sindh, but it is mankind’s heritage. Likewise, the relics seized in Karachi, are not the heritage of Peshawar, Afghanistan or Taxila, or for that matter only of Pakistan; they constitute humanity’s heritage. It is the responsibility of the saner elements to preserve and protect them. And also spread the awareness among those who don’t know that to protect these artefacts is to protect history. Awareness campaigns are launched in the world to highlight the importance of relics and anyone who damages such artifacts is considered a criminal. Generally, police performance is not laudable. But in foiling this bid, the police really deserve appreciation. …[T]he higher authorities should also take up the issue and ensure protection and conservation of the heritage of human civilisation. — (July 7)

Selected and translated by Sohail Sangi