WORKSHOPS FOR CLERICS: The recent horrific incident in Madyan area of Swat, where a mob brutally stoned, lynched and burned a man on allegations of blasphemy, was shocking and frustrating. This was not the first such incident in the country. Many similar events have occurred in the past, resulting in the loss of many innocent lives. However, the state seems to be helpless. Among other steps, the government must arrange training sessions for clerics and scholars as they have influence in their respective areas. Moreover, the proposed workshops should include topics like social polarisation, multiculturalism, the international economic system, how the global system works, what Muslims can learn from such systems, tolerance, plurality, coexistence and collaborative sharing. Such exposure can do wonders.

G. Akbar Palijo
Larkana

STRATEGY AGAINST TERRORISM: The challenge to eliminate terrorism from Pakistan is multi-layered, and the country needs a well-crafted strategy and not merely a reaction to a single episode. The troika of Afghan Taliban, Al Qaeda and the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is a reality that cannot be denied. The TTP carries out physical attacks, the Afghan Taliban play host to TTP cadres, and Al Qaeda provides the needed training to TTP recruits.

Akbar Jan Marwat
Islamabad

MAINTENANCE WORK: The deteriorating condition of the road and drainage system in Federal B Area’s Block 15 demands urgent attention of the authorities. There is a stretch of road that has nothing but potholes that have rendered it virtually impassable for both vehicles as well as pedestrians. Apart from the road, drains in the area frequently overflow due to lack of maintenance, exacerbating the woes of the residents. The absence of manhole covers has further increased the risk of accidents. The authorities concerned should start comprehensive repair works in the locality on an urgent basis.

Zubair Hussain
Karachi

Published in Dawn, July 9th, 2024