Need to defuse tension

With law and order slipping out of hands as TLP workers and supporters have hit the streets in protest, the federal government has invoked Article 147 along with anti-terrorism clauses to deal with the deteriorating situation. The TLP, which was weighing its wings to march on the federal capital, reportedly shot at policemen on duty near Muridke resulting in four deaths and injuring dozens of security personnel. This prompted the government to put its foot down. The subsequent vandalism made it even worse, and in retaliation the government called off talks with the religious group, warning it of dire consequences if the rot is not stemmed.

The paramilitary Rangers, with enhanced powers, have been deployed for two months in Punjab with the express intention to deescalate the ensuing exigency. This forms a deja vu for many as Karachi too was put under the same mechanism as lawlessness there was at its peak a decade ago. It remains to be seen as to what administrative and political linchpins come into play to woo the agitating group which, on its part, feels that it has been deceived and the promises with it were not honoured.

The government should adopt a multipronged approach while dealing with the TLP and the likes. Moving in paramilitary forces is a step in the right direction, but it has to be supplemented with a low-profile but high-intensity dialogue with the religious group so as to do away with irritants for all times to come. The stance that the government will not engage the TLP in talks is unwarranted and could be counter-productive.

Pakistan is passing through a tough phase in terms of its economy and international relations. Rise in global prices have had an adverse impact on the purchasing power of the populace, and further compounded by the dip of rupee’s strength. Likewise, FATF and revulsion in Afghanistan are other testing issues. In such an environment, any demand for expelling the French envoy, or severing ties with it, does not go in line with our national interests. The TLP has to introspect some of its demands on the broader horizon and rein in its supporters.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 29^th, 2021.

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