KARACHI:
Fyodor Dostoevsky's Crime and Punishment raises profound questions about morality, law and the human psyche through its protagonist, Raskolnikov, who believes that "extraordinary" individuals have the right to break moral and legal rules if it serves a greater good. This philosophy finds an unsettling parallel in Pakistan's current law and order situation. When people start believing they can break the law for what they perceive as a higher purpose, it leads to profound dilemmas.
In the novel, Raskolnikov shockingly justifies his murders by arguing that extraordinary people can violate moral laws if their actions benefit society. We see a similar attitude in Pakistan, where some individuals or groups justify breaking the law and moral codes in the name of achieving a higher purpose. This weakens the legal system and fosters lawlessness. Groups like the TTP use terrorism to promote their ideology, undermining the legal system and challenging the existing order. The rise of vigilantism in Pakistan is another example of the dangers of undermining the legal system. Incidents like the 2021 lynching of a Sri Lankan factory manager in Sialkot, accused of blasphemy, show how easily mob justice can override established legal processes.
Alarmingly, many people in Pakistan face challenges similar to those experienced by Raskolnikov. Severe poverty, deep despair, incomplete education and heavy family responsibilities can lead to frustration and hopelessness. If these issues persist, there is a risk that people may react in extreme or disruptive ways, potentially leading to social disorder. Despite his flawed reasoning, Raskolnikov's downfall serves as a stark warning. The country must learn from this cautionary tale by focusing on human development and upholding the rule of law.
Wahab Abbasi
Islamabad
