Countries all over the world hold a census regularly and there is no reason why Pakistan cannot do the same.
KARACHI: In Pakistan, a census was first conducted in 1951 and then in 1961, 1972, 1981 and the last time in 1998. For proper planning, administrative and development work, a census is a crucial document, especially since it helps in determining the scope of future planning and resource distribution. The census is supposed to be held every 10 years. However, the last one was held 17 years after the one before it, and that was 13 years ago. We have no indication from the government about when the next one will be held.
At the very least, this is a matter that the media should raise. After all, the issue, though important, is not that difficult to grasp. Countries all over the world hold a census regularly and there is no reason why Pakistan cannot do the same.
Syed Sayef Hussain
Published in The Express Tribune, January 25th, 2011.
