3 areas need our immediate attention, i.e., issue of no-go areas, deweaponisation & armed wings of political parties.
ISLAMABAD: This is with reference to the prime minister’s meeting with all major political parties of Sindh aimed at restoring peace and stability in the main economic hub of the country. During meeting, the prime minister asked all political parties not to politicise the issue of security and law and order in the city, as this has impacted the city’s economy in an adverse manner, as well as the lives of its citizens. The prime minister also identified a total number of 458 terrorists, who are involved in creating tumult in Karachi. If we analyse the Karachi situation, then there are three areas which need our immediate attention, i.e., the issue of no-go areas, deweaponisation and armed wings of political parties. Our police seem to be helpless in front of these problems and to some extent this is understandable, as they are incapable of handling such situations.
Now, how one can address these issues pertaining to the city security? Karachi is the lifeline of our country in terms of economic activity. However, it has turned into a city of extortionists, gangsters, drug mafias and militants. People don’t feel secure inside their homes. It is the state’s responsibility to provide security and protection to its inhabitants, but it is quite clear that it is helpless. On the other hand, when our politicians can easily identify the areas which require our attention but are not willing to take action, it makes their role corrupt and raises questions on the performance and sincerity of our political leadership. The issue of no-go areas, deweaponisation and armed wings of political parties can only be addressed when individual interests are set aside and a collective effort is made. All major political parties are to be blamed for the present state of affairs as all of them have tried to establish their hold in Karachi through such means by supporting armed wings and forming no-go areas for the police.
Sobia Amir
Published in The Express Tribune, September 6th, 2013.
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