THIS is with reference to the report ‘Journalist Shahid Husain passes away’ (Sept 15), which I found rather sketchy. In many respects, he was an unusual character, mauled by events beyond his control. He worked for some time in the Soviet consulate in Karachi and had many Russian friends, but that did not stop him from being blunt about his opinion of the erstwhile Union of the Soviet Socialist Republic (USSR). He told them that while he admired many qualities among the Russian people, the Soviet system was totalitarian and the people were largely unhappy. Long after the USSR had ceased to exist, he remained in correspondence with his Russian friends.

One unfortunate event that changed his life occurred during the dictatorship of Ziaul Haq when he was arrested along with another ‘suspect’ (whose name I rather not mention) and tortured. This torture created many psychiatric anomalies in his character. Among those he used to speak of gratefully was renowned psychiatrist Dr Haroon Ahmed.

During disturbances in the city, returning to his home in Nazimabad was an ordeal for him. He used to avoid taking the bridge for fear of getting arrested. So at night, he would descend into the Lyari river and reach the other side through the mud and patches of water.

Because of the post-torture trauma, he was unable to pursue a ‘settled’ journalistic career. He changed jobs quickly, or was made to quit. His wife’s death and financial difficulties were a challenge to him, but he fought back with courage and paid special attention to his children’s education, and one of them became a doctor in due course.

He used to come to my office quite often and seemed to be making a determined effort to come across as someone feeling normal, but it was obvious that the torture had gotten deep into his soul. He spoke of events he had told me several times, but there was no trace of hostility towards anyone in his conversations. He was a good grandpa, and used to visit his grandchild.

He wrote two books, including Khawb Laylo Khawb, which was launched at a ceremony held at the Karachi Press Club. I told him the book had substance, but lacked order.

His stay in my office never exceeded more than 15 minutes. I never disagreed with him and accepted whatever he said.

He was a harmless person, and that is a great deal to say about a man. May Shahid Husain rest in eternal peace!

M.A.S.
Karachi

Published in Dawn, September 20th, 2023