KARACHI:
The deep-rooted seeds of provincialism have instigated chronic social and political instability in the country. It has promoted pervasive inequality, racial discrimination, as well as cultural and ethnic segregation in our society. As a matter of fact, we as a nation have badly fallen apart and disintegrated in the wake of the rising belief of provincialism.
Regrettably, we have been deeply mired in narrow-minded feelings that restrict us from building a liberal, unbiased and tolerant society. Furthermore, owing to the long existing social, cultural, political and linguistic disparities, anti-state elements continue to make the most of our vulnerabilities. They try every sinister move to infuriate communal riots in order to further destabilise the country. There is no denying the fact that Pakistan is confronting numerous daunting challenges at every front. And the rising feelings of provincialism have further complicated and intensified the internal battle in the country.
If we are to survive as a nation, we have to adhere to the words of our Quaid: “For God’s sake, give up this provincialism and get rid of this poison if you want to build yourself into a nation.” It is high time for us to wake up from our deep slumber and open our arms to all Pakistani brothers, regardless of their religion or ethnicity. Only then can we pave the way for a tolerant, sympathetic and harmonious future.
Ammar Aslam Muhammadi
Sukkur
Published in The Express Tribune, October 23rd, 2020.
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