Peaceful Karachi!

In a recent statement, the Chief Minister of Sindh declared Karachi a "peaceful" city, a claim that has sparked debate among residents and analysts alike. While it's undeniable that the city has seen improvement in law and order over the past few years, this assertion oversimplifies the complex reality faced by its citizens. There was a time, the decade of the 1990s, when the city was a battlezone. Dozens were shot dead every day despite multiple security operations. Sure, there is relative peace if one compares the metropolis to the Karachi of yesteryear. But it would be a stretch to call the city "peaceful" nowadays. A metropolis of over 20 million people, Karachi is often at the crossroads of social, economic and political turmoil. Crime rates have fluctuated with notable decreases in violent crime, but challenges of street crime and murders persist. The recent rise in incidents indicates that most of the city still grapples with insecurity.

The Chief Minister's optimistic portrayal may reflect some progress in certain areas, thanks to efforts by law enforcement and community programmes. However, it risks overshadowing the lived experiences of many Karachiites who navigate daily life with a constant awareness of their surroundings. Markets bustling with shoppers often coexist with reports of theft and harassment, creating a dichotomy that cannot be ignored. During the last three years, at least 250 citizens have been killed by street criminals. If the city was as peaceful as the Chief Minister says, those 250 people would still be among their families. Serious efforts are needed to address the root causes of crime, such as poverty, unemployment and political instability. The city's resilience deserves acknowledgement, but so too does the need for comprehensive strategies to ensure that all residents can genuinely feel safe and secure.