Our country is interacting with a very complex situation of sectarianism in combination with terrorism.
DERA GHAZI KHAN: Our country is interacting with a very complex situation of sectarianism in combination with terrorism. This has badly deteriorated the law and order situation in the country and damaged the social fabric. Consequently, we have become prey to societal divisions.
What are the root causes of this menace, who are these terrorists, what is their source of income, why is the government not taking any action against them? These are all questions that need to be answered.
In the late seventies, madrassa students got trained in training camps, in Afghanistan, to join the jihad against Russia. After the termination of the Afghan war, these trained militants were totally ignored and left unguided. Some of these trained militants have joined different organisations and are now working for their cause. The majority of the remaining militants are involved in sectarian activities which result in societal division into different groups on the basis of self-interpretation of religion. They are supporting and backing religious leaders who are spreading and promoting sectarianism and are also known to everyone. But due to the absence of specific policy and lack of will on the part of the government, police officials hesitate to conduct investigations effectively and this ultimately creates a sense of terror among the people. The inability of state institutions to deal with these elements with an iron hand has led to confusion and chaos. Militants have been found indulging in criminal activities, i.e., kidnapping for ransom, extortion and bank robberies: all to make money for their ulterior motives.
The only way forward for the government is to take action against these groups. Their source of income should be checked as many of them get money through illegitimate and unknown sources. All mobile SIMs must be registered within one month. In case of any call from an extortionist, the IMEI (International Mobile Station Equipment Identity) number should be blocked forthwith. Our anti-terrorism courts need to be revamped immediately, as most of those involved in cases related to terrorism are being acquitted on the basis of the benefit of doubt.
Lastly, I would say that uniformity and continuity in policies, irrespective of change in government is the key to success.
Akhtar Lalayka
Published in The Express Tribune, September 21st, 2013.
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