Adil Najam
Government and opposition politicians have embraced the idea of a national conference on how to deal with terrorism. The idea of a conference, in itself, is not much. But the idea of creating a national consensus and a national sense of purpose on dealing with the menace of terrorism is critical if any of the tough steps that will need to be taken, could be taken. One hopes that the conference will, indeed, do that.
But the creation of that common sense of purpose – and let us acknowledge that there is no such thing in Pakistan today – is not just the state’s responsibility. It is equally, and maybe even more, a responsibility of society. The fissures within the state reflect the even deeper fissures within society. And both build upon each other.
It is important, therefore, for all of us to have the exact same conversation that we want our political leaders to be having. A conversation that is focused on practical solutions, difficult decisions, tough realizations, and ultimately an agenda of action. Figuring out ‘how we got here’ is always important, but only to the extent that it actually leads to meaningful strategies of ‘how do we get out of here.’ So, as part of this national conversation, we ask our readers to suggest practical steps forward – ‘practical’ does not mean that it has to be easy, but it does mean that it has to be doable. What do you think should be done, by whom, and how? Have your say; there just may be someone listening.
By way of context, as well as good advice on how the national leadership – and we ourselves – should approach the question, this editorial from Dawn makes very good sense:
…the militants are not only at war with the Pakistani state, they are bent upon subjugating the Pakistani people as well. Security installations, government buildings, mosques, schools, shrines, hospitals and markets, all have been attacked. With this blurring of targets, there is also a need to realise that, whatever their nomenclature, ideology, agenda and area of operation, the militants must now be seen in holistic terms — and their tactics unanimously condemned. This should be the thought behind the attempt to form a consensus on a strategy to curb terrorism…. What is not a matter of debate is that the terrorists are prepared to stop at nothing to destroy the state and inflict their obscurantist agenda on the people. So when the national conference [conversation] takes place … it should be with the realisation that there is a common goal to pursue. There should be no room for blame-games or fiery speeches. Serious discussions will be required, with informed input from all concerned, so that a workable plan to thwart militancy can be put in place. Such a plan would include suggestions on how to prepare the people to take on those who threaten their way of life.
We also seek a serious conversation. What do you think should be done, by whom, and how? You can, of course, say whatever you want. But one hopes that we will get beyond the usual spate of incrimination, finger-pointing, conspiracy, and denial. Certainly look back if you must, but if you are spending more time looking back than forward, then you are probably driving in the wrong direction. To the extent you can, we would appreciate if you would respond to the question with the clarity and unambiguity it deserves: What do you think should be done, by whom, and how?
We have institutionalized a lot of hatred right into the constitution. That has to be cleaned up. It gives cover to the arguments on which the hatred breeds. You said it did not have to be easy, but has to be doable. I say the thing to do is to get rid of all religion from the constitution. Lets leave religion to God. Will not be easy reversing what we have put in there. But it is necessary.
The focus on police is imp, but until you also have the courts taking these killers on and dispensing justice it will not work. They are actually caught again and again and then they go free because the courts are playing populism.
The security agencies and the police department has to be revitalized …….. Police now needs active and young educated men who understand the real problem and should be given such perks and privileges that they don’t have to worry about their financial problems …………. and their foremost worry has to be the people’s problem …… The whole selection of police should begin through independent selection procedures like candidates after matric should choose to go to such specific police college and they should be recruited as inspector ……… and than promoted with time to IG, commissioner, etc …….. this will indeed bring a big change in this important organization and ultimately in bringing peace in the country.
You might wish to re-visit earlier ATP Posts, exactly relevant to the question asked.
http://pakistaniat.com/2010/02/09/terrorism-starting-a-search-for-solutions/
http://pakistaniat.com/2008/04/01/who-will-stop-this-mayhem/
Whatever the causes or the history of how we got here, clearly we are faced with a situation that we must deal.
One urgent need, in my opinion, is a very effective police – or other civil crime fighting unit. And the way to do that is to give them the resources & training.
It amazes me that even in Islamabad – the capital – police wallas at pickets don’t even have bullet proof vests and don’t seem to have any drill or training in how to challenge a suspicious vehicle.
Unless some of these terrorists are actually caught and there are some consequences we’re just making them bolder with each instance. The message is very clear: do more damage because the state is basically defenceless.
Leaving this to the army or rangers is not the solution. They armed forces are doing a fine job engaging the terrorists in their hideouts, but defence of an entire city requires a different kind of training. We need better intelligence, better equipped and trained police, more motivated and well paid police jawans and so on.
Now I realize this is not an overnight thing, but the worrying part is that there does not appear to be even a plan in place to get there.
The army is asked to make the highest sacrifice, but at least they know that in case of shahadat their families will be taken care of. What about the police ? What is their motivation ? what do their families face if they die in the line of duty.
There needs to be a huge increase in the police budgets and they should be treated with as much reverence and dignity as the armed forces.
I’m intentionally leaving aside the political solution possibilities. Several things need to happen there too on domestic and international fronts – but at least start to gather the capability to deal with it in the meanwhile.