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?
i condemn pakistan’s involvement in the gwot; always have.
but how many deaths of innocent and defenseless pakistani citizens will it take for some of us to condemn and stand up to extremism and terrorism in our own society?
how many?
my mind is becoming numb; the sense of helplessness is overpowering.
Atheist: What are you smoking on?If you are American then your very own Administration is embracing and praising Jihad
bit.ly/cpAiCi
“Nor do we describe our enemy as ‘jihadists’ or ‘Islamists’ because jihad is a holy struggle, a legitimate tenet of Islam, meaning to purify oneself or one’s community, and there is nothing holy or legitimate or Islamic about murdering innocent men, women and children,” Brennan said.
And they are talking with Talibans too!
bit.ly/xOHG7
and Ironically US pays to Talibans and warlords to give them safe passage
bit.ly/9ul4E5
and Americans admitting that US policy in Afghans is a mistake:
bit.ly/bjb4B6
So in which world are you dwelling?
To all those who are labeling others as “Taliban supporters”, I wonder whether those “Samandar Par Pakistanis” have enough guts to condemn US’ sudden shift towards Taliban? Do they have courage to oppose those who feed them and their families?
I usually don’t interfere the game,usually starts by Adil on his playground(the site) where liberals throw up their frustration and weakness every day. I just smile when they say(in their comfy bedrooms) that “We must getrid of Talibans”. How can you while your “Shaikhs” in Washington are going to begin talks with them?
@Atheist
Gee thanks Mr. Atheist, its wonderful to know that your idea of a ‘solution’ for Pakistan involves even more bloodshed…albeit in the opposite direction.
:P
@RAZIA or should i call you TALIBANIA, in any case as know even if our forces leave afghanistan there will still be a war (or massacre) where taliban will kill anyone who opposed them, they will kill innocent and whole area will turn into alqaeda haven like it was before 2001. Pakistan should stop acting like double agent and stop supporting taliban and then acting as if they are fighting against taliban. It is time to bring war to terrorist’s home and start arresting anyone who support “salfi” or “wahabi” religion and prosecuting them for terrorism. Pakistan need a revalution like france where people gathered and start killing all the religious leaders and cleanse their country from religious authority.
situation in pakistan will change only when the united states leaves the area along with all its arms and its spies.
http://tinyurl.com/296swjs