THE dangers that vigilantism — especially mob attacks and lynchings inspired by dubious rumours and allegations of blasphemy — pose to society are immense. And unless there is a committed pushback from state and society, these extremist tendencies can unleash a reign of anarchy in this blighted land. Fortunately, there does appear to be a realisation within the corridors of power that the threat at hand needs to be tackled forthwith. In a recent interaction with clerics, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz highlighted this grave issue, and promised to take action against those who promote the dangerous culture of vigilantism. Ms Nawaz rightly pointed out that behind many of these incidents of alleged blasphemy are personal vendettas; allegations of desecration are cruelly used as excuses to settle scores, often with deadly consequences. She also promised to crack down on those involved in mob attacks, while observing that some preachers often misused loudspeakers to egg on bloodthirsty crowds.

The incidents of mob violence and lynching are too numerous to list here. Suffice it to say, far too many innocent people have paid with their lives, or lost property, due to spurious allegations of desecration, where zealous mobs have decided to dispense ‘justice’. While many minority citizens have been targeted, Muslims have not been spared a dreadful fate either. It is welcome that the Punjab chief minister has taken notice of the issue, as many of the recent incidents — Sargodha, Jaranwala — have occurred in that province. But this is a national problem that needs a national response. Firstly, officials must go beyond words and take action against all those involved in promoting this culture of violence. A blueprint exists in the form of the National Action Plan; all that remains is the wherewithal to implement the plan’s counter-extremism recommendations. As we have stated before in these columns, deradicalisation may take years, if not decades, as extremism has struck deep roots in society. But implementing the law must be an immediate priority. This means taking action against those involved in making false allegations, as well as bringing to book those who promote violence and vigilantism. Economic and social progress will be impossible if we ignore the growing threat; if such incidents continue, and more innocent people are harmed, Pakistan risks becoming a pariah state. The time for action is now.

Published in Dawn, July 8th, 2024