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?
My wish list:
1. Civilian supremacy in the affairs of the state in general and foreign affairs in particular should be established once and for all. Democratically elected civilian govt. should be the incharge. Kashmir, Afghanistan and Nuclear issue should exclusively lie within their domain like all other issues.
2. Army and the intelligence apparatus should stop interfering in civilian issues and stop dictating the foreign policy issues. They should give input only when it is sought.
3. Pakistan must be what Jinnah wanted it to be and not what Mullah is forcing it to become.
4. Pakistan’s identity is and should remain “South Asian”. It doesnot belong to Middle East or Central Asia and all attempts to push it towards the latter should be vociferously oppossed. Non-violent South-asian Sufi tradition should be our creed. Wahabi, Salafi, Takfiri thought should be ejected.
5. US and ISAF troops should be facilitated and encouraged to leave Afghanistan but only after securing Durand line as international border and amicably settling Kashmir/water issue with India. We have a common regional future as we had a shared past.
6. We should concentrate on putting our house in order before day-dreaming about global “ghalaba-e-islam”.
7. Stop dividing like rabbits.
BB’s murder was assault on the political headquaters of Pakistan, ambush on GHQ was aggression on Pakistan’s defence hub, strike on Data darbar is onslaught on Pakistan’s spiritual nerve-center. Time to wake up for the real stake-holders, the awam.
I have no idea how to stop the terrorist attacks. I think none of the commentators here do either.
The people who *are* in the know can’t be bothered to do anything about it so we are all doomed! Whining about it isn’t going to make things better. Either emigrate or prepare for the worst!
@SM.
YES, we know it is Taliban.
YES, we know only Taliban supporters and enemies of Pakistan and Islam dispute that and defend Taliban.
Islam may by a religion of peace, but Muslims are becoming people fo war everywhere, because of these cursed Taliban.
Salaam,
This is an ideology it cannot be defeated by guns
10 Clear Actions:
1. Education, Education, Education
2. Justice must be seen to be done for all not just the rich
3. Work with your neigbours – India, Iran, China, Afghaistan and not the USA
4. End the class / VIP Culture in Pakistan – respect hard work and not status
5. Free Media and Press
6. End family ownership of political parties
7. Wider spread of the taxation system so more people pay tax (i.e. rich and politians must pay same taxes.
8. Involve local people in local decisons – local solutions not centrally imposed
9. Use the Voluntary sector, Not for profit sector more (NGO etc)
10. Better paid better trained better equiped police – not more police
SO we agree that all this terrorism is spread by Taliban?
Are you all 100% sure about this?
Are you sure that this is not part of a big international conspiracy theory to weaken pakistan? Are you sure that the US, Jews and India are not involved in it?
Our religion does not teach to kill fellow muslims. Even a worst of worse muslim would think twice before committing such act unless provoked / threatned / abducted / blackmailed by someone.
Probably we need to re-think that who is our enemy.