Resignations and PTI lawmakers

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Tuesday said that its lawmakers would appear before the Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq on Wednesday along with their resignation from the National Assembly.
PTI spokesperson Dr Shireen Mazari said that the party’s decision to resign from the National and Provincial assemblies was final. She said that the party chief Imran Khan had convened PTI’s parliamentary party meeting on Wednesday. She said that the party would not budge an inch from its stand on resignation from the assemblies and prime minister’s resignation. Meanwhile, PTI leader Shah Mehmood Qureshi said that the decision to resign from the assemblies had been taken unanimously after threadbare deliberation over it in party meeting.
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) has finally decided to quit the National Assembly. The resignations of its 25 MNAs were lying with the Speaker for the last two months almost and in spite of his repeated requests to the PTI leadership to follow parliamentary rules, none of the resigning legislators felt the need to tender their resignations singly. Speaker of National Assembly was interested to call all the who were interested to resign, one by one to his chamber to confirm the will of the member regarding resignation, but PTI strongly criticized this act and was of the view that all the members of PTI in the parliament would present united to the speaker. Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq on Friday sent one final notice to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) lawmakers to personally verify their resignations in his chamber otherwise all the resignations will be accepted.
Now, after a final notification from the Speaker, they will go en masse to the National Assembly today to do the needful. The government did not want to accept the resignations and had been waiting to ease the tension between the PTI, PAT and the incumbent government but after multiple tries of failure to do so, but months of patient waiting has done nothing except increase Imran’s obduracy in not settling for anything short of the prime minister’s resignation. Speaking at a rally in Gujarat on Friday evening, Imran Khan said that their resignations should be accepted immediately.
“Who are you to not accept our resignations,” he said while referring to PM Nawaz. “We will not go back in Parliament, and will cancel the party membership of anyone who opposes our decision.” It seems that resignations of PTI parliamentarian would be accepted. PTI will resign from the Punjab and Sindh Assemblies as well, and in consistent vein will not contest any by-elections. However, the party has decided to retain its government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK). For the next four years, the party will sit outside parliament and still play the role of an opposition. After Muharram 10, the PTI will conduct two rallies every week in different cities. How long this process will continue, its hard to predict.  PTI has also announced that representatives of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf would be protesting in front of the building of Election Commission of Pakistan, on daily basis.
The PTI’s departure from parliamentary politics to the politics of agitation is a unique example of such politics. This is hardly an effort towards a Naya (new) Pakistan. Other than adding more issues to the ever increasing list of problems, Imran’s agitation will serve no purpose. If he is concerned about Pakistan, he should go back to parliament and conduct politics through the mandate given to him by his supporters in the 2013 elections. On the other side, incumbent government must also realize that it would not be for the parliament if the elected members would keep resigning from the parliament for whatever the reasons are.

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Refrain from ethnic politics

Clinging to Leader of the Opposition Syed Khursheed Shah’s statement in which he characterised the word migrant as a swear word and said that any political party must stop its politics of the name of muhajir. The Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) criticized the statement very severely and ultimately they observed a ‘black day’ to show their angriness against the PPP. Though the rest of the country completely ignored it, parts of urban Sindh did oblige the MQM’s call as certain cities witnessed a complete shutter down and a few demonstrations here and there.
Since Shah made that statement, MQM is insistent on painting the issue in a religious hue by calling it blasphemous as the word muhajir carries a historical significance in Islam. MQM keeps on tapping the sensitive subject of ethnicity. In accordance with its earlier demand of dividing Sindh into more administrative units, this time it has announced to drive a countrywide campaign asking for 20 provinces in the country. Politicians must not bring religion in the political matters and when Khursheed shah has asked for an apology then there was no point to make the matter worst. If MQM wants more provinces they should gain the political majority and should not use the other path.

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Black Day against Indian occupation of Kashmir

Kashmiris across the world observed ‘Black Day’ on Monday against the Indian atrocities in Occupied Kashmir. A complete strike was observed in the region on Black Day. Kashmiri leaders have demanded India to stop her stubbornness over the Kashmir issue and move forward for resolving the crisis. The leaders have also said that India must stop its human rights violation in Occupied Kashmir if she wants to hold talks for solving the disputed issue.
Prime Minister of Pakistan while addressing to the General Assembly of United Nations asked for the peaceful resolution of the Kashmir according to the resolutions of the United Nations. According to a Gilani Research Foundation Survey carried out by Gallup Pakistan, 86% Pakistanis support the Prime Minister’s decision to solve the Kashmir issue in the General Assembly; 13% oppose. A nationally representative sample of adult men and women, from across the four provinces was asked, “Recently Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, while speaking at the General Assembly, expressed his desire to solve the Kashmir issue and give the Kashmiris the right of self-determination. Do you support or oppose the Prime Minister’s decision to solve the Kashmir issue in the General Assembly?” In response to this question, 86% respondents said they support the Prime Minister’s decision to solve the Kashmir issue in the General Assembly, while 13% respondents said they opposed the decision and 1% did not respond.
Pakistani nation is united for Kashmir cause and incumbent government has also taken a principled stand on Kashmir issue. We believe that the issue be resolved in accordance with the UN resolutions keeping in view the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. Our diplomats must remind to the world community about the promises made with the Kashmiris for resolving the issue under the United Nations Security Council resolutions. Nation must put aside all personal difference and asked to stand united for the solution of disputes such as Kashmir. Kashmir is a significant dispute and Kahmiris must be given the prerogative of self determination. United Nations Organization (UNO) is an international organization and if referendum can take place in Scotland then why not in Kashmir. Islamabad has told New Delhi multiple times that it believes dialogues are only way to resolve Kashmir issue despite the fact that our armed forces are fully capable to deal with any adversity at borders. Islamabad made it clear to India not to consider its desire for peace as weakness. Pakistan armed forces are fully capable to thwart any aggression but always demonstrated maximum restraints. Islamabad wants resolution of Kashmir issue as per the aspirations of the Kashmiri people while Indian leadership not only refused to accommodate Kashmir’s leadership in the dialogue process but keep insisting occupied Kashmir as integral part of India. One can easily differentiate the Indian approach towards resolution of the core issue of Kashmir through negotiations. Narendra Modi since assuming the office continuesly claiming that Pakistan has been taught a “befitting lesson” with the Army “shutting their mouth”, alleging they will not dare to repeat it again. Ironically, Modi not only accused Even the Congress Party is criticizing Narendra Modi for escalating tension alongside Pakistan borders but what appeared to be part of election campaign, Mode continued singing anti-Pakistan songs to win the elections
Making mockery of UN’ resolutions should be a matter of concern for the UNSC but it never took the issue seriously. The J&K valley has been illegally occupied by the Indian forces since 1948. Pakistan has raised the issue in United Nations which not only termed it as “Disputed territory” but also called Indian to resolve the issue through negotiations acceptable to all. But India never accepted the Kashmirs disputed territory and sent over 7 lac fifty thousand troops to suppress the Kashmiri people struggle for getting rid of foreign occupation. Pakistan considers Kashmir as its jugular vein but despite unprovoked violations of the Indian security forces, Islamabad demonstrated maximum restraints and only responded to the situation to avoid civilian casualties. Pakistan had always raised the just cause of Kashmiris on national and international level but the world community failed to live up to its commitments. But New Delhi must not forget that Pakistan armed forces are fully capable to respond to any aggression with full might when it comes to defending the country against any aggression and safeguard the territorial integrity of Pakistan. Modi must have to understand that negotiation is the only way to resolve the issue. Instead of relying on its military might, Modi should demonstrate maturity and sincerity and stop blame-game and point scoring. The UN has failed miserably to resolve the issue and being dictated by Washington that has the present centre of global politics. There is a dire need to send a clear message to Indians as well the world community that enough is enough.

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Local government elections: Hour of need

It seems that politicians are not willing to hold local body election in the country, the issue of local government elections has been delayed for years with the pretext of one to another lame excuses. It is ironic that Supreme Court of the country is pushing for the local body elections but the politicians don’t seem in the mood to do so. Just to make sure that the provincial governments of Sindh and Punjab hold local government elections in time, the Supreme Court (SC) has given another reminder to both the provinces to take it on a serious note.
This trend has to be changed that for every positive act, someone has to push us with force to do it. We are, as a nation not learning the lesson to fulfill our responsibilities. We are setting wrong trends; it is the time politicians must show some seriousness for the devolution of power by organizing the local body elections, which would provide the rights to the common people to redress their grievances on their own. A mayor has stakes to serve his people locally, because the he would understand the problems of people in a better way and would try level best to solve them to get votes to return to office. The court has sternly asked the ECP to complete its job in 45 days. Punjab government would take one more week to pass the Punjab Local government Amendment bill but taking advantage Sindh government has passed the Sindh Local Government Amendment Bill 2014. In the case of Punjab and Sindh, completion of the legislative process is the first step to organise local body elections. The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) is planning to organise local bodies elections in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in three phases. The elections will be held in last week of March 2015. Election Commission would start the process of preparing voter lists next month. After which, the election schedule for KPK would be announced in January next year. Around 120 million ballot papers and one million nomination papers will be printed. It would be great that electronic electoral system would be used in the election in KPK.
Although, Election Commission of Pakistan has requested the court to give it five months to conduct local government elections in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa but court eliminated the request and ordered to ECP and also to the provincial government to submit their progress report within a month. It is mandatory for the provincial governments to conduct local government election, article 140 directs it. Punitive actions can be taken against the provincial governments if they would be found using the delaying tactics for not fulfilling the constitutional requirement.
Considering the inefficiency of the politicians, it seems that laws are made to be violated. Matter of local body elections is not an exception. If there could have been genuine democratic tends implemented, the Supreme Court would not have had to intervene to force the provinces to conduct local bodies polls. It seems that taste of power is more delicious than respect for the rule of law or the constitution; the courts were left with no option but to intervene and force our prevaricating rulers to do the necessary acts they were supposed to do. It is amazing that on the one hand, politicians keep defending the democracy in the country for the progress of the nation but on the other side they are not willing to give the rights to the people at the grass root level by dissolving the right of power, which is the soul of true democracy. Supreme Court has been intervening time and again but politicians seem not willing to fulfill their responsibilities to the people whose votes have sent them to parliament.

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Dilemma of increasing polio cases in Pakistan

Once again International Monitoring Board suggested more hard international travel restrictions on Pakistan. Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) is the board which suggested international travel restrictions on Pakistan and World Health Organisation (WHO) implemented it. Most alarmingly, Pakistani government has failed to implement the recommendations of IMB. It is pertinent to mention that IMB works on behalf of the international donor agencies and it issues reports regarding performance of the countries after every six months. In November 2012, IMB recommended that travel restrictions should be imposed on Pakistan and finally those recommendations were implemented on May 5. Over 200 polio cases have been registered in Pakistan in the year 2014 more than previous year, still few months to go to reach 2015. With 500,000 children yet to be vaccinated, Pakistan stands at a deplorable position on this year’s World Polio Day where it adds 85 percent of polio cases to the world. Such escalation of the disease creates many doubts about the stat’s measures and their outcome. Pakistan has been the major contributor to confirmed polio cases in 2013 as compared to Nigeria and Afghanistan – the only three remaining endemic countries. The polio eradication campaigns in Pakistan have been suffering from continuous setbacks as 27 polio workers have been assassinated since December 2012 during anti-polio immunization campaigns. Lack of an efficacious regime to tackle this pandemic was not enough, there had to be a conspiratorial element to further depreciate all the efforts. According to the 2013 World Health Organization report, 74 polio cases have been reported in Pakistan. However, 51 (69%) of the polio confirmed cases are from Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), identifying it as the single major poliovirus reservoir in Pakistan. Moreover, the polio immunisation teams whose workers carry out door-to-door vaccinations should be killed as they are part of this sinister conspiracy against Muslims. Since this narrative got out, a series of attacks have been carried out targeting polio teams and killings dozens of health workers, mostly in the troubled areas of Khyber Phakhtunkhwa, Federally Administered Tribal Areas and Balochistan. As a result of which the most challenging issue for the government is how to retrieve the lost public trust where people in these areas now refuse to get their children immunised. The Government of Pakistan has highlighted multiple reasons for the growing polio endemic in Pakistan citing primarily militancy and ‘refusal families’. Militancy, especially in the Federally Administered Tribal Authority (FATA) and North Waziristan areas of Pakistan, may have compounded the polio campaign further by putting many children at risk. In spite of multiple supplementary immunization campaigns, the majority of confirmed polio cases identified in Punjab, Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces in 2013 were from zones considered as low-violence areas.  This observation strongly contradicts the perception of militancy alone as an impediment for polio eradication in Pakistan. Lack of accurate polio vaccination coverage estimates and unaccountability of responsible officials are major reason for new polio cases in areas unaffected by violence. The example of measles epidemic in the southern part of Sindh (considered violence free zone) also contradicts the poor security viewpoint and highlights the failure of public health preventive strategies as the primary culprit. The 306 deaths and 14000 reported cases attributable to measles in 2012 highlights the poor immunization infrastructure, fraught with incorrect reporting. In 2012, Egypt health authorities found polio virus strains in two of its sewerage systems. Samples of this polio virus were traced to the environmental samples in Sukkur in Northern Sindh province of Pakistan again a low violence area. In 2013, the same strain from Pakistan found its way both, in the Palestinian and Israeli sewerage system via Egypt. Recently, 17 polio cases detected in four major cities of the war affected country of Syria have also been linked to the wild poliovirus strain from Pakistan.

A report suggests that all of the six polio cases reported from Quetta were solely because of their parents’ refusal to get their children vaccinated. Despite many edicts being issued by different clerics and religious scholars to unequivocally endorse the necessity of these immunisations, no adequate narrative seems to be in place and after having all these alarming facts in front of us, one wonders why the government has not adopted an effective policy on a war footing. Its contagiousness poses a threat to the rest of the world that is polio-free. Surely, we do not want to isolate ourselves from the rest of humanity. It is not only for our own sake but in order to be an active member of today’s dynamic global world that we need to get rid of this affliction as soon as possible.

Specific strategies related to anti-polio immunization campaigns in security compromised areas are urgently needed, close monitoring of anti-polio immunization campaigns is essential to ensure accountability and to overcome factors behind poor coverage.

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Tharparkar: People left at the mercy of politicians

Wednesday two more newborn babies died in Mithi Hospital in the drought-hit Tharparkar thus raising the death toll to 36. Mostly infants and teenagers have lost their precious lives in the month of October. Both the children died at Mithi Hospital and they were not more than a week old. Over 100 people, including 40 children, are still being treated at the Mithi Hospital. Over 461 children have died in Tharparkar during the past nine months while the provincial government remained unmoved. CM Sindh Qaim Ali Shah and his cabinet miserably failed to save the precious lives as no concrete measures have been taken so far that could provide food, potable water to these “ UNFORTUNE” children. The PPP-led provincial government utilizing each and every possible resources to “Regain” the party’s popularity graph which is very much on the decline. Billions of rupees have been spent on the processions of Bilawal Bhutto Zardari in order to revive the Bhuttoism. Only rupees two billion were spent to arrange the PPP’s procession at Mazar-e-Quaid to bring the people. The provincial government also at dagger drawn with its allied party MQM which has quit the ruling alliance in protest of derogatory remarks passed by PPP Chairperson Bilawal Bhutto and Khursheed Shah. Thousands of people in drought-hit Tharparkar are dying of starvation. People are force to drink water from the nullah where the animals also quench their thrust. On the other side a relief inspection team that visited the Civil Hospital in Mithi Wednesday and seized hundreds of sacks of staples including bottles of water stocked in the store. The mysterious disappearances of Mobile Health Units equipments even the tires which was gifted by Japan to help local authorities meet the requirements is a condemnable act. This shows the level of corruption on the part of those sitting on the helm of affairs. The Chief Minister Sindh who recently visited the drought-hit area did attended the meeting but most of the time he was caught sleeping. This shows how serious Qaim Ali Shah and his party is when it comes saving lives of the innocent people.
The drought has been further aggravated by the total lack of failure to understand what needs to be done. It is not simply a matter of distributing wheat or vaccinating children after malnutrition and disease have set in. The main issue is livestock which needs to be saved as the local people depend on this livestock. Clean drinking water is also an essential to save not only the people but also for the survival of the livestock.
Despite many promises made by the federal and provincial governments, the people of the area have been left at the mercy of provincial as well federal governments as despite making tall claims nothing significant has been witnessed on the ground and the condition of the dwellers have been worsened with each passing day.
Khan said the absence of a strategy to deal with drought in Tharparkar is reflective of a complete failure of successive governments to plan proactively for the welfare of the ordinary citizens of the country.
Even today despite daily reports of deaths due to the drought our rulers remain unmoved to act on an emergency basis. The callous attitude of the provincial and federal governments is a shameful reflection of the distorted priorities of the provincial as well Federal government. Hospitals in Tharparkar district are crammed with drought-affected people, mostly children. Residents have slammed lack of help from the government.
The ongoing drought in Thar which is leading to what could be avoidable deaths through malnutrition and starvation, especially of women and children as well as suicide by women out of despair when unable to provide food for their children.
CM Sindh Qaim Ali Shah is running the Sindh government more than twelve years but failed miserably to serve the masses. It is a matter of shame for the provincial government that could not installed the water filtration plants which were supposed to be named after Shaheed Benazir Bhutto. People who used to respect Bhutto’s family are now openly criticizing the party over its failure to save their lives. Asif Zardari had announced setting up Shaheed Benazir Bhutto’s centre where the needy people could at least drink clean water and enjoy food regularly. Sharjeel Memon also made numerous promises but both failed to live up to his words.
The ruling party facing numerous problems due to bad governance and its failure to fulfill the promises.. Taking corrupt practicee to the task, ending nepotism, VIP culture and provision of cheap and speedy justice to the common man were the promises he and his party leaders made to the people. The PML-N government is also not paying any heed to the plight of drought-hit Tharparkar’s residents. It is a matter of shame that innocent people are dying due to malnutrition in a country which is full of natural resources.

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Unity must to save the country from hidden enemies

The MQM has parted its ways with the PPP government and seems in mood to accept any pressure by the provincial government. PPP leader, provincial minister Manzoor Wassan reportedly told media men the party would bring back MQM in the government within 14 to twenty days. Wassansaid all we have o do is to offer a ministry and some advisors’ posts to the MQM. It is a very serious statement which means a lot. This statement has put the MQM’s credibility on the line. MQM Chief Altaf Hussain seems very angry with the CM Sindh who according to him pushing party’s leadership against the wall. Altaf Hussain complained that Karachi operation is being launched against the MQM. He had told the provincial government not to test the ‘our’ patience. The PPP government has already clrafied that operation is not against any particular party. Police and rangers have been given free hands to deal with the criminals. The rangers have also made it clear that they would not succumb to any pressure and would not succumb to any succumb to any political pressure.
Altaf Hussain. MQM chief has called COAS Raheel Sharif to launch investigations against the presence of black sheep in the police as well other law enforcement agencies, claiming that extra- judicial killing of MQM workers continued unabated. He alleged that Muhajirs are being pushed to the wall and rangers force is active against the MQM. He went extra miles by saying that it is not the military’s job to break the parties. He said the military should be pulled back from politics arguing that he backs the military but will not support the misdeeds. He said that the MQM has always backed the military in difficult times, alighted lamps for martyred soldiers and organized a million marches in support of the military. The MQM is staging protest rallies and sit-ins in Karachi due to which all sorts of routine activities have come to halt.
MQM also came hard on the provincial government for subjecting its activists to worst kind of state terrorism. The Federal government is also being blamed for not taking any interest to end the injustice. The MQM leaders are also accusing the federal government of double policy. They alleged that the activists of PTI and PAT and whosoever attacked the parliament building and PTV headquarters haven’t been arrested yet while on the other side
MQM workers, leaders who were busy in holding party session are receiving all sorts of threats.
The situation is very alarming as Rangers are being accused of conducting operation in Karachi against Muhajirs. Karachi operation was launched with the consensus of all political parties and MQM was very vocal with regard to the deteriorating law and order situation. The MQM chief was the first person who kept pressurizing the federal government to handover Karachi to army. The operation was aimed at purging the country’s financial hub from anti state elements, bhutta mafia, target killers and other anti social elements that had made the lives of the citizens nothing less than a misery. The federal government gave free hand to Chief Minister Syed Qaim Ali Shah and assured all out support in making the operation a success. But unfortunately, the Captain of the operation (CM Sindh) appeared to have some more priorities than bringing back normalcy in the metropolitan. Despite giving extra powers to Rangers, the Sindh government continued influencing the operation systematically. Shahid Hayyat, the former chief of police is back on the job but this time he had been appointed DG operation. He was sacked after he gave deadline to some political parties to handover the wanted person otherwise police would have no choice but to raid their offices. Now he is back and people are expecting things going to get better in the crime-infested city.
eThe federal government on various occasion advised the provincial government to gear up the operation to achieve the desired results. PM and Federal Interior Minister made numerous visits to see the progress of the Karachi operation. But unfortunately the provincial government started criticizing the federal government of interfering into provincial matter. Now situation is very grave as rangers, being a para military force is being accused of launching operation against MQM. This is very dangerous trend and forces must not be blamed to such extent as it would only help the anti state forces to destablise the country. The law and order situation in Karachi has badly damaged the country’s economy. Innocent people have lost their lives in terror-related incident. Attacks on Karachi airport, bid to break-in Central Jail and rising incidents
of target killing are very alarming. It is the duty of each and every politician either sitting in or outside the parliament to shun their differences. Armed forces are successfully carrying forward operation Zarab-e-Azab. Situation on our eastern and western borders is very tensed. The time has come to safe the country and it is only possible when we all stand shoulder to shoulder with each other.

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Capital punishment vital to curb terrorism

The loss of over 48 precious lives in an attack near Wahga Border has shocked the entire nation. Authorities claimed a suicide bomber struck a gathering Sunday. A number of people were also injured while more casualties are being feared. The suicide bomber appeared to be 18-year-old boy. The cowardly attack near Wahga Border area has raised many questions that definitely needed to be answered. The area is very sensitive and highly secured. The IG Punjab has reportedly told media that people are allowed to attend the event and due to heavy presence of people, police do not even bother to frisk the people. Still the concerned quarters cannot escape the blame for security lapse. The blast took place 400 yards away from the Parade Avenue. Why the police failed to check the individual? How the suicide bomber managed to breach the security carrying over 5 to 7 kg explosives? This is a very alarming situation as the latest attack at 8^th Muharram is a clear message from the terrorists that they are capable to strike whenever, wherever they wanted to. The involvement of foreign hands can not be ruled out as the enemies want to destablise the country. The cowardly attack comes at a time when armed forces are successfully carrying out operation Zarb-e-Azab to flush out terrorists once for all. It can be aftermath of the operation Khyber 2 too.
Law and order situation is getting worst with each passing day across the country. Innocent people are being killed by “Namaloom Afraad”. From Khyber to Chaman hidden forces are targeting security forces, civilians not even sparing the women and kids. The terrorists are roaming free and striking at their will without fearing law of the land. In most of the terror-related incidents, foreign-made weapons are being used. The seizure of huge quantity of weapons from Baluchistan speaks volume about the enemies’ agenda. The weapons seized by the security forces from an empty house belonged to Afghanistan and India which proved the involvement of foreign elements to destablise the country.
Masses are again left on their own. A great sense of disappointment, fear prevails among the citizens due to deteriorated law and order situation. Karachi is again witnessing sharp increase in heinous crimes. Rangers and police force are nabbing target killers, terrorists but finding it difficult to control the killing of innocent people. Non- Baluch residents are being executed in Baluchistan.
It is also a matter of concern that our politicians are busy in character assassination, point scoring and leg pulling. Huge public gatherings are being held in which each and every politician claiming he is the only one who can purge the country from prevailing crises. Instead of shunning political differences, forging unity, the political confrontation continued unabated. None of them is ready to give inch to their opponents.
Had the resignation of Fakhro Bhai been taken seriously by the concerned quarters, the country would not have to face the chaotic situation which had pitched the activists of various political parties as well leaders against each other. He seemed committed to hold free and fair elections and initiatives he had taken to get the job done were praise worth but all his efforts evaporated in smoke due to lack of coordination among the various institutions.
No action was taken against the contesters who violated the same code of conduct that was formulated in consultation with them. They certainly had responsibilities to make electoral process smooth and credible.
Though it was not the sitting government to be blamed for as it was the duty of the caretaker government to ensure free, fair and transparent elections, but now the huge responsibility lies on the shoulder of the incumbent government to learn from the mistake of the caretakers who failed to deliver taking advantage of loopholes in the electoral system. The PML-N has the opportunity to devise foolproof strategy for the upcoming elections. There is dire need to overhaul the election commission and get rid of black sheep present in its ranks. The government without wasting time must work for electoral reforms with an aim not to let any body repeat the mistakes made in general polls that had pushed the government into dark alley.
It is a mater of great concern that so far thousands of people have lost their lives in terror related incidents but yet no concrete measures have been taken to end the very menace. The Interior Ministry had already alerted the security agencies about any such incident can happen. The terrorists are hell bent up killing citizens. Most of them are languishing in jails and ordering attacks. It is high time for the incumbent government to restore capital punishment. Restoration of capital punishment would send clear message to the terrorists as well their financier that they would have to face gallows instead of sitting in the jails enjoying “Perks and Privileges” at the cost of taxpayers’ hard earned money.

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Reduction in PoL prices: Not good enough to end masses’ sufferings

Federal as well provincial governments have failed to devise a comprehensive strategy to end the very menace of corruption and withholding across the board accountability against those bureaucrats, who have failed to implement the decision taken by the PM Nawaz Sharif with regard to reduction of PoL prices. Most of the owners of the petrol pumps have either refused to sell the petrol saying that they have ran out of stock while others are selling the same on higher prices without any fear of getting caught. The Federal government did a commendable job by cutting down Petrol price by Rs 9.43 per litre but the steps could not lesson the miseries of the general public. Despite the decision made by the federal government, the concerned quarters failed miserably to implement the order in true letter and spirit.People are facing hardship in finding petrol.
From a distributor to petrol pump owner, everybody claiming that they have bought petrol on higher prices and if they sell the petrol on reduced prices then they would have to suffer billions of rupees loss which they can not bear. The masses were expecting cutting down petrol price would provide a great financial relief to them but unfortunately their dreams haven’t been come true yet.
Distributors, dealers, shopkeepers and public transport operators haven’t reduced the prices. The masses are being overcharged and the concerned quarters are watching the entire episode as a silent spectator. The public transport operators in the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad are keep overcharging commuters without fearing of getting caught. People are being charged Rs 30 to 35 from Sadr to Pak Secretariat while Rs twenty are being charged from stop to stop in the twin cities. Despite numerous complaints by the commuters, the Rawalpindi Traffic Police as well Islamabad Traffic Police officials haven’t taken any significant action against the public transport operators. Most of time, the public transport operators only accommodate commuters from Sadr to Faizabad stop. After approaching Faizabad stop they force commuters to empty the van and pick “New Commuters” for Islamabad which is sheer violation of traffic laws. Traffic wardens watch the ugly practice everyday but do not take any action against violators as most of the public transport vehicles belonged to “ Bigwigs”. It was being expected that after reduction in the petrol price, the masses would be able to buy items of basic commodities on lower price but it never happened. The provincial government has constituted price control committee several times but the officials of the committee failed to do justice to their jobs. Not a single dealer, distributor or shopkeeper has been booked for fleecing the masses what to say about fine. The price control comities do exit but only on paper. These officials get handsome salaries and enjoy all perks and privileges but never bothered to keep constant check on the illegal practice of overcharging, hoarding and profiteering. The unhygienic food is openly being sold out in the markets for decades.
Corruption seems a never-ending menace for the general public. One can not get his job done without greasing the palms of the clerck badshah, muharir in government offices and police stations. Iftikhar Muhammad Choudhary, the ex CJP while hearing a case observed that he can not find even a single government institute which is free of corruption. During PPP’s tenure, then NAB Chief while addressing a gathering disclosed that corrupt practicee were depriving national kitty of nearly eight to nine billions of rupees per day. These are not tell-tale story but an open truth which none of the governments either in the past or present ready to admit. There is no dearth of honest and efficient persons in our country. Unfortunately either they have been made OSD or compelled to leave the country as most of the appointments in government institutions are not made on merit. Each and every successive government keeps appointing blue-eyed persons on the top slot. Most of the heads of government institutions are performing as acting chairman. These “Active heads of the government departments’ neither fulfill the criteria nor have any experience for the post they have been commanding.
Bureaucracy plays a important role in promoting or ruining the image of any sitting government as their very job is to ensure implementation of the orders/ announcement made by the President, PM, CMs or ministers. Holding accountability of the bureaucracy has become vital for the government’s survival otherwise the rulers would never made to parliament again as now masses are fully aware of their rights. Time is ripe to rid the government departments of black sheep. The federal as well provincial governments must order probe in to the sorry state of affairs besides taking to the task to the concerned officials who have failed to implement the PM’s orders. Otherwise, the opposition parties would get another golden chance to take on the incumbent government which is already facing many crises.

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Lifting ban on capital punishment need of the hour

The entire national observed Youm-e- Ashur with great zeal and enthusiasm across the country. The strategy devised by the law enforcement agencies in maintaining law and order situation and thwart any untoward incident and the cooperation rendered by people from all walks of life played an important role to keep the sanctity of Youm-e-Ashur intact was really praiseworthy. From a common man to ulemas from all sects played major role in promoting religious harmony due to which all the processions ended up peacefully. Not a single incident of terrorism took place. The unity, patience and unprecedented cooperation as well coordination among the people and law enforcement agencies foiled the nefarious designs of the anti state elements. There were serious threats from the terrorists on Youm-e-Ashur but due to effect security mechanism and unprecedented help of the people from all walks of life, the terrorists failed to carryout attack on the processions. There are only handful cowards, inhuman terrorists who under the garb of religion are pitching people against each other. The masses by forging unity, among their ranks rank stood shoulder to shoulder with the armed forces, law enforcement agencies and police personnel in maintaining law and order. The anti state elements that are on the run due to operation Zarbe-Azab, Khyber Agency somehow managed to breach the security and shifted their anti state activities in almost every major cities, district of Pakistan. They are ought there to cause as much damage as they can to the security agencies and not even sparing the innocent masses who have nothing to do with these cowards, ruthless enemies. The terrorists are carrying their activities at their will without fearing law of the land. Until now nearly 3500 terrorists have been awarded death sentence but due to ban on capital punishment, these self-confess killers are languishing in the jails at the cost of taxpayers’ hard-earned money. These condemned prisoners are issuing orders from jails to their subordinates against launching attacks on state institutions, security forces and not even sparing the innocent people including elderly men, women and children.
The use of cell phones in the jails in not hidden to anybody, as most of the time the authorities have recovered lots of cell phones from the possessions of the prisoners. This shows the corruption and criminal lethargic attitude of those sitting on the helm of affairs. Each and every government on federal as well provincial level failed to curb the very menace of use of cell phones, supply of weapons from almost every jail across the country. Billions of rupees had been spent and are still being spent on the security of VVIP, VIP personnel, renovation or reconstruction of old, new assembly buildings, government offices and processions. But not a single penny has been used to end the suffering of the masses when it comes to providing cheap and easy justice to them. They have to run from pillar to post to seek justice. One can not even get registered an FIR against any injustice meted out to him or her. Nearly 170 people either committed suicide or killed their loved ones after failing to get justice. The sitting government failed to lift ban on capital punishment which was imposed by the PPP’s led government. The ban on capital punishment encouraged the terrorists to take the lives of innocent people without fearing of getting caught. If one involved killing innocent people, he knows very well that he would escape the gallows due to ban on capital punishment. Though Justice Baqir who narrowly escape attempt on his life last year strongly recommended lifting ban on capital punishment but his request was not honoured.
The human rights activists every now and then make hue and cry pressuring the government to end capital punishment terming it inhuman act. What about those who have lost their loved ones in terrorists acts? Their families are living below the poverty line as most of the victims were the sole responsible of earning bread and butter for their family. The human rights activists never bothered to visit those families to see the miserable lives the victims’ family is forced to live.
The sitting government has to review the entire situation with utmost care and lift the ban on capital punishment. This would send a strong message to those anti state elements that they can not escape from the gallows. Provincial, National Assembly and the Senate needs to lift ban on capital punishment in order to save precious lives. It is matter of great concern too that not a single action had been taking against those who were caught red handed providing cell phone, even weapons to condemned prisoners by accepting bribes. These officials are as guilty as the murderers, terrorists as they are aiding and abetting those criminals whose very job is to kill people as per their masters’ wishes.
The ruling party must take the bold step and order implementation of capital punishment.

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Wagah border tragedy and rare display of bravery

People from all walks of life defied all threats Monday by actively participating in the heart-warming flag lowering ceremony at the Wagah border gate. The presence of huge crowd despite a dreadful suicide attack that resulted into the deaths of at least 60 people mostly women and kids Sunday has proved that Pakistanis always stand shoulder to shoulder with the armed forces and handful terrorists can not bar the masses to take party in any national event. During the ceremony, the enthusiastic crowed chanted ‘Pakistan Zindabad’ and other slogans. The rare show of bravery displayed by the people from Lahore as well other parts of the country is an ample proof that such cowardly attacks can not deter masses as well armed forces’ resolve to face all sorts of challenges.
Corps Commander Lahore Lt General Naveed Zaman and DG Rangers also attended the ceremony to boost the masses’ moral. Corps Commander told the gathering terrorists cannot deter the resolve of this brave nation adding these terrorist attacks cannot diminish the zeal and enthusiasm of Pakistanis. He also pointed that there was complete dullness on the other side of the border.
The terrorists are hell bent upon killing security forces personnel and not even sparing elderly people, women and children. The coward, ruthless enemies of state have geared up their attacks against the armed forces and general public. One can not termed people involved in planning attacks as Muslim as there is no room of violence in Islam. Islam teaches us tolerance, equality and respect of human lives. Since the launching of operation Zarb-e-Azab, the terrorists somehow managed to spread across the country to fulfill their nefarious design. They are targeting innocent people to take revenge of killing of their colleagues. Banned outfits are claiming for carrying out Sunday’s attack but so far concerned quarters haven’t identified the real culprits behind the cowardly act but whosoever coordinated the attack deserves no mercy and must be brought to book besides awarding exemplary punishment so that no one could dare to play with the lives of innocent people.
Since the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan till now, thousands of armed forces personnel, other law enforcement agencies men and innocent people have been martyred in terrorists’ attacks. After the fall of Taliban government and setting up President Hamid Karzai’s government by the United States, Pakistan suffering irreparable loss that brought country’s economy on the verge of collapse. Pakistan being a frontline state against global war on terror is struggling hard to revive the economy and flushing out terrorists from its soil to make world a safer place to live. Each and every Head of State kept appreciating the sacrifices rendered by the armed forces and masses but when it comes to assist Islamabad in true letter and spirit every one of them failed miserably to fulfill the promises he/ they made with each and every successive government. US is solely responsible for encouraging terrorists to launch attacks against the Pakistan armed forces, security agencies and the general public. Despite repeated protests lodged by Islamabad, Washington continued launching drone strikes in FATA. In Most of the drone strikes, innocent civilians lost their lives thus spreading hatred against the US and pushing some peace-loving people to launch attacks against own people.
Islamabad seems to have not learn any lesson from the US and its allies’ double standard as no concrete steps were taken by the foreign ministry to compel Washington in particular and its allies in general to respect the Pakistan’s sovereignty .
The previous as well sitting government did not even bother to revisit country’s foreign policy with regard to the double standard of US, world community and United Nations too. All they did just tabling resolutions in the United Nations against the drone strikes, and seeking UN’s role in resolving the core issue of Kashmir. Our rulers as well the opposition parties are not learning from any lesson from the past mistakes and are locked in politics of confrontation. None of the politicians have ever bothered to take practical steps against the unjust policies of US or neighbouring countries. They just delivered heated speeches against the US, Israel and India which is quite evident from the recent shelling from Afghan borders, unprovoked firing by Indian Border Security Forces at LoC and along side working boundary. The rulers have to revisit the foreign policy based on purely Pakistan’s interests. There is also dire need to take solid steps against the terrorists by awarding them exemplary punishment. It is an open secret that most of the target killers, terrorists have sympathies of some political parties that provide them protection from getting caught and “license to kill”. It is need of hour to award exemplary punishment to the self-confessed target killers and terrorists which is only way to put an end to terrorists activities. Pakistanis being a Muslim are not afraid of anybody but Allah Almighty and can not be held hostage by handful terrorists.

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Appointment of regular CEC and role of politicians

Government and opposition parties are striving hard to develop consensus on the appointment of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) as a full bench of the Supreme Court last week had set November 13 deadline for the appointment of a new CEC, failing which the judge of the apex court would be withdrawn from officiating as the acting CEC. SC had also ordered the government to appoint a regular CEC.
The post is laying vacant after ex CEC Fakhruddin G. Ebrahim tendered his resignation over allegations of irregularities during 2013 elections. On Thursday, leader of the opposition in National Assembly during a meeting with the Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif reportedly proposed three names i.e. former Chief Justice Saeeduz Zaman Siddiqui, Justice (retd) Mian Ajmal and Justice (retd) Rana Bhagwandas for appointment as the new CEC.He has told media men that the name of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) will be finalized within couple of days. He is likely to hold talks with other political parties including PTI, JI and MQM, hoping that consensus would be developed over one particular name. Khursheed Shah is in contact with the PTI leader Shah Mehmood Qureshi and is likely to hold meetings with the leaders of Jamaat Islami, Awami National Party and FATA parliamentarians for consultation over the issue.
Khursheed Shah e has also advised the government to hold contacts with all political parties over the appointment of CEC. According to him, PML-N government will consult with Muttahida Qaumi Movement leaders over the matter.
While the PTI has PTI Vice Chairman Shah Mehmood Qureshi during a telephonic talks with Khursheed Shah Thursday told him to include the name of Justice (retired) Nasir Aslam Zahid in the list of three proposed former judges for the post of CEC. Shah Mehmood Qureshi revealed that his party leadership is of the view that all three proposed names were highly respectable; however, the name of Justice (retd) Nasir Aslam Zahid should also be added in the list.
The prime minister is expected to arrive Beijing Friday on official visit where he would hold meetings with the Chinese President, premier. A number of agreements and MoUs will be signed by the two countries in the field of energy.
The incumbent government needs to take into confidence all the stakeholders in order to develop a consensus over the appointment of regular CEC. The ruling party and other parties including PTI and PAT, MQM have to put their differences aside and must sit on same table to develop a consensus on the very issue as the appointment would have far reaching impact in the next general elections. The PTI has finally proposed Supreme Court Commission to probe what they alleged rigging in 2013 general polls. PTI Chief Imran Khan had conveyed a message to the incumbent government that his party would continue sit-ins but in the same time an SC commission should be formed to investigate the rigging. He said if the ruling party did not commit any rigging in the 2013 general polls then why they are hiding behind stay orders. He again demanded of the government to order recounting in four constituencies that would prove PTI’s stance over involvement of ruling party in the alleged rigging. Sirajul Haq, the Ameer Jammat-e- Islami who tried on his level best to mediate between the ruling party and the PTI, PAT to end political crisis, now opted to side with PTI in its struggle for upholding the supremacy of the constitution.
The ruling party seemed to have not learnt any lesson from the ongoing political impasse and keep ignoring the protesting parties especially the PTI. The rulers have turned their guns on Imran Khan making mockery of him of being left alone in his struggle to expose the alleged rigging committed by the incumbent government. PAT Chief did made a blunder by leaving the federal capital. He should have live up to his words but called off the sit-ins without taking Imran Khan into confidence. It was crystal clear from the beginning that despite have separate agenda, PTI as a goodwill gesture opted to stand side by side with the PAT Chief Dr Tahirul Qadri. Dr Qadri wanted arrest if PM, CM Punjab, dissolution of assemblies and formation of national government but later he changed his mind and astonished the whole nation by announcing that his party would take part in bye-polls, LBs Polls and would contest general elections. The PTI as well other political parties have to made decision in the larger interest of the country as it would have far reaching impact on the country’s future. The Prime Minister should have stayed in the country till the appointment of regular CEC but he decided to visit Beijing to seek help in energy sector. The ruling party has to demonstrate seriousness over the matter of national interest and must take along all the political parties when it comes to put an end to political uncertainty.

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Mobocracy overwhelming law of the land

Despite all efforts, using military operations to eradicate the growing extremism from the society, it seems the targeted objective would not be achieved until all the elements of the society would not contribute for making this nation a tolerant one. Another incident of mob terrorism have surfaced as people took the law into its own hands in the name of religion in Kot Radha Kishan, a Christian couple have been beaten to death by an angry crowd after being accused of desecrating Quran and their bodies were burned at the brick kiln where they worked. Putting a glance on the previous such incidents it is evident that minority community becoming an easy target for members of the dominant faith. The incident has brought the shame to us as a nation not protecting minorities and news became viral world wide. Although an inquiry has been ordered as it usually happens in such cases, without offering any guarantees or generating any hope that the guilty will be brought to justice this time. There have been condemnatory statements issued by various groups and individuals, including the prime minister. Once again the vulnerability of our religious minorities to the law and society is the topic of discussion. Would this incident become a turning point in providing the rights to the less powerful minorities or they would be kept killed under the guise of religion without providing them an opportunity to clarify the allegations. If the law makers and politicians in the corridors of parliament are motivated to amend the laws then brutal killing of Shama and Shehzad should be enough such incidents for the stimulation to tighten the screws against violent mob. Although chances seem bleak that culprits would be brought to justice but grass rout level measures must be taken to put a full stop on mob terrorism.
According to the human right organizations it appears that the murdered man, Shehzad, had a dispute over wages, or recovery of advance that the kiln owner had extended to two families of Muslim laborers who had escaped. The kiln owners had asked Shehzad to repay the amount extended to the escaped families because he had introduced them to the owners. It appears that Shehzad and Shama, his wife, had been severely beaten up at the kiln and locked up in a room. Some witnesses say that Shehzad had died in the beating. Shortly afterwards, when word of alleged desecration was spread to nearby villages and announcements made through mosque loudspeakers, a mob of hundreds headed towards the kiln. Meanwhile, four policemen at a nearby post visited the kiln and demanded that the couple should be handed over to them otherwise they would be killed by the mob that was headed that way.
The inability of the police to rescue the couple despite reaching the site is stark evidence of the state’s vanishing writ. The individuals, whether at the kiln or in nearby villages, who instigated violence against the victims, and those who prevented their rescue must be brought to justice. The religious belief of the victims also apparently did not work in their favour. The exploitation of kiln workers is an essential part of the context of the tragic killing and this incident should lead to accelerated efforts to ensure that slavery-like practices that continue despite a promise in the constitution cease without further delay.
The mob, should be apprehended, tried and brought to justice for taking the reigns of law into their own hands. These self-appointed enforcers of the law should be made an example of. Majority of the cases have occurred due to personal grievances. If Justice had been provided to the people right in the in beginning there would have been no repeations.
Clerics must take a stand and explain to the public the true message of Islam in accordance of the teachings of the holy Quran and hadith. Seminars must be organized to educate the people about this tolerance and religious harmony. Each City/ Town must have designated religious leaders, who should be authorised for taking any action or registration of FIR against the culprits. Most of these incidents happen due to lack of information and knowledge of the common people teachers, media men and religious leaders should teach the people for tolerance. On the other side politicians must realize that they have failed to fulfill their due responsibilities. Instead, what the rulers have done is to instruct the police to investigate a territory which the law enforcers are unequipped to handle and too scared to venture into. What is needed is leadership, not just statements, from the top. It is the not the first incident of its kind, it has happened in the past with the minorities, houses got burnt, people were put on fire alive, whole colony devastated. But it seems law enforcement agencies and law makers are not fulfilling their duties to provide security to the masses.

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Govt’s shortcoming: Imran throws ball in PM’s court

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has returned from China where he held important meeting with the top leadership. PM has termed his visit very successful claiming the pacts signed by the two countries would have far reaching impacts on the country’s economy. The country would be able to get rid of loadshedding menace once for all and government would bring about a significant change in the common man’s life. There is no doubt about PML-N government’s efforts to end the sufferings of the masses but yet government has to do a lot more to restore the confidence of the masses. The sharp increase in terrorism, violence against minorities, deteriorating law and order situation, corruption, mismanagement, unemployment and injustices seem never ending. Terrorists are killing people, influential are targeting minorities, poor, there would hardly be a government institute not infested by the corruption, youths are running from pillar to post to get job, corrupt and inefficient persons are being appointed on important posts, while the innocent people including women and kids are dying in the government hospitals either due to criminal lethargic attitude on the part of doctors what to say about people of Thar who have been suffering a lot for the last 14 years. It is a shame that in only nuclear Islamic state, children are dying of starvation; people are compelled to drink the water mixed with animals’ waste. The Sindh health department has confirmed deaths of over 600 children in Tharparkar in last eight months what to say about yesteryears.
The Sindh government has miserably failed to deliver on any front. PM should have step in by sending aid to the people of Thar and hold accountable to those who deprived people of food and healthcare facility but he opted to remain silent reason best known to him.
The rulers only keep promising the masses of improving their lot but seeing ground realities, the PPP-led government in the Centre and Sindh province, the appointment of blue-eyed persons ruined the state institutions and left adverse effect on the country’s economy besides making the lives of common man nothing less than a misery.
Before 2013 general elections, PML-N government made tall claims and assured the masses that they would hold Musharraf accountable of his deeds and would recover plundered national wealth from then President Asif Zardari. CM Shahbaz Sharif publicly refused to accept Zardari as President. But after coming to power, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif changed his priorities and turned his guns against Pervez Musharraf. Ironically, not a single case was initiated against Asif Zardari who never fulfilled the promises he or even Shaheed Benazir Bhutto made to Nawaz Sharif. PM did commit a blunder by extending ‘maximum assistance’ to PPP and the Sindh government being run by the party. Initiating case under article 6 against Pervazi Musharraf was the biggest mistake he made in his political career as the case is under trial so one can not write much on the very topic but it would be precise to say that the case would create a lot of problems for the sitting government in days to come.
PM Nawaz Sharif remains unsuccessful in providing any major relief to the masses too. He promised once to put an end to loadshedding within two to three years but after realizing the ground realities he admitted publicly that he did make the promises but he was unaware of the facts that there was not sufficient amount in the national kitty to fulfill the promises. Like Zardari, Nawaz too started taking decisions on his own without taking parliament or cabinet into confidence. He and most of his key ministers even did not bother to attend the Lower or Upper House sessions regularly. It was the PPP’s co chairperson Asif Zardari who termed the 2013 general polls as “ROs” polls.Then PTI chief Imran Khan started raising his voice against the alleged rigging demanding recounting of votes in four constituencies. Nawaz should have listened to the demands of Imran Khan but he opted to host Asif Zardari twice, once in PM’ House and then in Lahore to discuss the “Mutual” issues. Now Nawaz Sharif is finding ways and means to deal with the protest drive launched by the PTI. Imran Khan now not only demanding probe into alleged rigging and punishing all those if found guilty of committing. Government must take Khan seriously when he announced Sunday that the government will find it very difficult to operate after his rally in Islamabad on November 30. Now Imran Khan has put forward some very important suggestions to the government to resolve the political impasse. He has demanded of the PM Nawaz Sharif to formulate an impartial commission to probe into rigging. He has shown flexibility by allowing PM to remain in power until the rigging is proved. Government must response positively in the larger interest of the country.

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Younis brings Aussies down to earth with a thud

Rizwan Haider
ISLAMABAD: Prior to the test series Younis Khan was under pressure to perform in the two test match series against Australia as he was left out from the one day squad, but as the series is in process he showed such marvelous performances with the bat that the Chief Selector is under pressure that either he would maintain the post or not for the sin of excluding Younis from limited over matches. Before the first test match Younis Khan had scored test hundreds against all the test playing nations excluding Australia, but he showed his class and elegance with the bat by hitting three tons, including a double hundred in three consecutive innings. He not only became the highest century makers for Pakistan by surpassing Inzamam with 27 test hundred under his belt, but also broke 90 years old record by scoring three hundred in a test series against Australia and became second batsman to hit two tons in same test match back to back against Aussies after 1974. He became third Pakistani batsman to surpass 8000 tests runs in 93 matches with better average than Inzimam and Javed Miandad.

Putting a glance at the test matches average of Younis, one would find him in the list of the greats of the game. He is the fourth batsman in the history of test cricket to maintain average above 50 in all the four innings, to be exact he maintains the record of 1st Innings – 2180 runs at 51.90 2nd Innings – 2642 runs at 56.21 3rd Innings – 1990 runs at 51.02 4th Innings – 1118 runs at 53.23. On average he scores a hundred after every three tests, which is much better than some of the greats of the game like Sachin Tendulkar, Jacque Kallis, Ricky Ponting, Biran Lara and many more. Amongst all the greats of recent cricket history only Sachin Tendulkar is closer to him with an average of scoring a hundred after 3.89 test matches.
One of Pakistan’s modern batting greats; Younis Khan is the kind of man who responds best in adversity, he remains the last hope in tough batting conditions. He has a triple-hundred and a famous double-hundred against India in India under his belt. He played the anchor role to clinch Pakistan’s 3-0 test whitewash over England in UAE couple of years before, leave no doubt about his quality and class. He has great fielding and catching skills, at the age of 36 he is still one of the fittest fielder in the team. He has shown that he possesses great skills of leaderships as he lead Pakistan to the world Twenty20 title in 2009. Administration of Pakistan Cricket Board must realize that Younis is the pride of Pakistan and must handle him with care and respect, ever smiling legend deserves it.

http://dailythepatriot.com/younis-brings-aussies-down-on-earth-with-a-thud/
 

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‘Go Nawaz Go’ haunting PML-N for not living up to masses expecations

Go Nawa Go is haunting Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif as well his party leaders now a day. The protesting parties’ leadership had advised their activists, supporters as well general public to raise slogans in any domestic or international forum being attended by the ruling party members. The move has added fuel to fire as the already frustrated by the sit-ins continued by the PTI and PAT for the 47 consecutive days. The first victim of Go Nawaz Go slogans was the Joint Secretary of the Pakistan Medical Association, Dr. Sohail, who was subjected to physical torture for chanting anti-government slogans in a ceremony held in Lahore. Then the overseas Pakistanis staging protest and chanting the same slogans outside UN headquarters in New York during PM Nawaz Sharif address to the General Assembly General Assembly. Later from school going children, lawyers and flood victims followed the same course. On Wednesday, he went to Wazirabad to meet flood victims. He also assured the affectees for every possible support to rehabilitate them. But the flood victims started raising Go Nawaz Go slogans complaining that they haven’t been given any financial or other assistance which was promised by the government
The political uncertainty continued creating panic among the general public due to the ongoing confrontation between the government and the protesting parties. The dialogue process has come to halt as none of the stakeholders ready to resume dialogue any further. The protesting parties have refused to meet with the government team while the political jirga trying on its level best to convince the PTI and PAT to end the deadlock. PPP has apparently changed its stance and watching the entire episode carefully. From Asif Zardari, Bilwal Bhttoo Zardari, Khursheed Shah, Kaira to Eitizaz Ehsan , Raza Rabbani and Yousaf Raza Gilani are changing their stance. They fully backed the PM during the joint session and assured him that PPP would continue supporting the incumbent government besides asking PM not to resign under any circumstances. Some of the heads of parliamentary even went extra miles by terming the participants of sit-ins as ‘ghusbethiay’, termed their demands totally undemocratic and unconstitutional and asked the PM to take stern action against the protesting parties who according to him have besieged the parliament and entire capital by occupying the venue.
Now all those parliamentary parties are not openly supporting the PML-n government and most of the parties have opted wait and see policy. The voice strongly raised by the PTI chief, Imran Khan against the alleged rigging is now being duly considered by these parties’ leaders who remained ignorant to the PTI’s demand of counting of votes in the four constituencies. The incumbent government used various tactics to delay the process on one or the other pretext. But since the serious revelations or rigging made by the former official of the election commission, Afzal Khan confirming the rigging stance of Imrn Khan, the ruling party had to face severe criticism by those parliamentary parties who stood shoulder to shoulder with the PM Nawaz Sharif. Now from former president Asif Ali Zardri to JI Ameer, Sirajul Haq is urging the incumbent government to pay serious attention to the very issue and resolve it without any delay. The government has announced formation of judicial commission to prove in to the alleged rigging in 2013 polls but of no use as the protesting parties are not ready to accept the legal status of the rulers arguing that present government came into power through fake ‘heavy mandate’.
The incumbent government stands on weak ground as both the protesting parties by successfully launching drive against the incumbent government, had developed consensus among various segments of the society over the alleged rigging. PAT chief is still seeking arrest of the PM, CM and the ministers for their alleged involvement in the Model Town tragedy, dissolution of assemblies, formation of national government for two years, introducing electoral reforms and across the board accountability. While the PTI Chief has repeatedly made it clear to all and sundry that his party did not want to derail the democracy but working to strengthen the system by purging the black sheep out from the election commission and introduction of electoral reforms. The government instead of taking in to account the demands of the protesting parties, tried to use force to move them from the venue that again turned the situation from bad to worst. Now PTI chief remained successful in creating awareness among the masses about their democratic as well constitutional rights and definitely matured the masses especially those who do not have access to educate themselves or their loved ones. ‘Go Nawaz GO” is not an anti-government slogan but it gave the people right to express their sentiments against the incumbent government to remind it any wrongdoing on the part of its leaders or bureaucracy.

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Mid-term polls or Go Nawaz Go: Clock is ticking

The mid-term polls seem inevitable under the prevailing circumstances as the end of political confrontation between the government and the protesting parties continued. The PTI and PAT continued sit-ins for the 50^th consecutive day while the PTI Chief Imran Khan once again told the rulers loud in clear that he would not end sit-in until the resolution of his demand i.e. resignation of the Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. His commitment was visible during his address to another successful procession held in Mianwali on Thursday. Imran Khan challenged Nawaz Shairf publicly to arrange even twenty percent of this crowd in a meeting and he (Imran Khan) would concede that there was no rigging in the elections.
PTI chief maintained that PML-N has won the 2013 polls through massive rigging and assured the gathering that he has caught Nawaz Sharif while cheating and will not leave him. Imran Khan also told that he will get Pakistan free as he had never surrendered in the past and will not allow the people to surrender to rigging now. He asked the Prime Minister not to resign in haste. PTI chief also vowed to make a new Pakistan where the poor will feel that the government was standing with them, introducing best local government system to resolve local issues he also told the people that the Parliamentarians would not be allocated development funds.
The ruling party facing numerous problems due to bad governance and its failure to fulfill the promises it made to the general public before winning the 2013 polls. Taking corrupt practicee to the task, ending nepotism, VIP culture and provision of cheap and speedy justice to the common man were the promises he and his party leaders made to the people. Most of the Pakistanis were not politically matured before 2013 polls but credit definitely goes to the PTI chief Imran Khan in particular while the PAT chief Dr Tahir ul Qadri who encourage the masses to stand up for their rights. Imran Khan no doubt by launching anti-government movement has created awareness among the masses about their democratic rights and how to fight for achieving their rights as enshrined in the Constitution of Pakistan.
The PTI received overwhelming response of the people of all walks due to his just struggle to expose the rigging committed in the 2013 polls. The Prime Minister, Chief Minister and rest of their cabinets as well party leaders are not ready to accept the charges of rigging. If their hands were cleaned, then they should have contacted PTI and other parties who also raised voices against the rigging and the role played by the Election Commission’s officials and the ROs. Had the Nawaz Sharif decided earlier to form commission to probe the charges of rigging, he would not have to face the current political crisis. The political crisis has reached to an extent that now holding of mid-term elections seems inevitable. The PML-N government is under severe criticism for not paying any heeds to the genuine demand of the PTI, mishandling the Model Town tragedy, failing to end corruption and VIP culture etc.
The involvement of two ministers has been reportedly aired on electronic media with footage. Punjab Law Minister Rana Mashood once again caught in the video openly talking about accepting bribes and unveiling the misdeeds on his part while acting as mediator. Another story of mall-practice has also been surfaced on the electronic media showing electricity being supplied to his house directly from the pole outside the house. Later a meter installed by the GESCO and a bill for the month of August amounting to Rs 27,000 was also shown in which connection number or which year/month the meter was installed was not mentioned. The reports of involvement of alleged corruption by the ministers would definitely damage the ruling party’s popularity which is already on the decline.
Most of the parliamentary parties are now appeared changing their stance as PPP’s Senator who during joint session termed the demand of PTI unconstitutional arguing that despite having reservations PPP decided to accept the results for the sake of democracy, now ready to issue white papers on the rigging in 2013 polls. Whereas JUI-F, PKaWMP’s heads are keeping low profile and even issued any statements with regard to the political deadlock and sit-ins in Islamabad.
The Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif after assuming power focused his attention on the power crises and started touring abroad to lure foreign investors to help resolve the energy crisis. He paid little attention to put and to inflation, employment, corruption and worsening law and order situation.The PM still have time to revisit the policies and take steps to address the genuine problems of the masses. PM has to take to the task to corrupt practice either belong to PML-N or any other party besides showing flexibility while dealing opponents otherwise he would have no option but to announce mid-term polls.

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Murder of a single person: Murder of entire humanity

Mufti Azam Saudi Arabia, Sheikh Abdul Aziz Bin Abdullah delivered Hajj sermon on Friday in Masjid-e-Nimra at Mount Arafat and said that murder is a great sin and ‘haram’ in Islam.
He also urged the Muslims to shun evil, practice unity and teachings of Islam. “Islam is a complete code of life, it’s a perfect and definite religion of Allah, it teaches brotherhood among Muslims and provides spiritual, moral and social training. He also urged Muslims to keep away from heinous crimes like murder, violence and other evil deeds.
“The murder is great fitna (mischief) in Islam. Islam prohibits obscenity as haram and sin, murder of a single person is the murder of entire humanity, and the one who committed this act unduly shall burn in the hell forever.” He urged the Muslim rulers to discharge their duties honestly and said that they should not forget that they are answerable in front of Allah. The Mufti said un-Islamic forces are hatching conspiracies against Islam and Muslim countries. He urged Muslims to observe patience in their lives in testing times, protect each other’s lives and properties and work together for the success and prosperity of Muslim societies.
The sermon highlighted major issues Muslim countries are facing in today’s world, despite being the second largest population in the world based on almost 57 Muslim countries in the world, some of them the richest in the world, Muslims are facing brutalities by internal and external elements. The Hajj sermon from is appreciable however; we will have to see that who taught the lessons of oppression and brutality and who is the source of all this terrorism. International terrorist have made the lives of Muslims and other human beings miserable, Muslims are killing Muslims, after taking benefits and gains from the those called Mujahideen, the same are declared as terrorists, and Muslim countries are being attacked under the garb of fighting terrorism. Yemen, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, Miyanmar, Bahrain, Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria and Pakistan are special targets. The Hajj sermon from the Mufti e Azam of Saudi Arabia is appreciable within its own words however; we will have to see that who taught the lessons of oppression and brutality and who is the source of all this terrorism.
In Muslim countries, Syria, Iraq, and Afghanistan Muslims are fighting with fellow Muslims to gain the political goals, people in thousands were killed and extremism was on its peak as the pictures and videos of beheading and mass killings are floating on the internet, portraying the false picture of Islam which has nothing to do with the religion of peace and brotherhood. From last couple of years Syria is in fighting a war and hundred of thousand have been killed, people in huge numbers have migrated to other parts of the region, even the neghbouring countries like Jordan and Lebanon feeling the threats of the extremism. International War against terrorism has weakened the Al-Qaeda but a new extremely violent terrorist group ISIL threatening the peace of the world. It is an irony that Islam is being defamed by the heinous crimes of terrorists in the Muslim countries.
If the Muslims would keep fighting amongst each others than anti-Islam forces would keep exploiting the few groups of terrorists in Islamic world to gain hidden agendas. If Muslims would not be united then a country of few thousands like Israel would keep killing the Muslims of Palestine and rest of the Islamic world would be a mere spectator. It is the time to spread the message of brotherhood and peace, killing of any innocent person is condemned in the religion but what about the animals in shape of humans killing the fellow Muslims. It is the obligation of the clerics to spread the true message of Islam, which is peace. Muslim countries should also take serious actions to make OIC a powerful organization which could solve the issues faced by the Muslims of the worlds. After many decades of its establishment OIC could not play the role it was formed for, it is the need of the hour to give a powerful umbrella to the Muslims of the world. Leaders of Muslim world should play their duties efficiently in line with Islamic teachings and spend all the resources on the welfare of their nations. Islam preaches peace and abhors terrorism. Islam is against all sorts of terrorism and teaches to spread the word of peace in the universe, but need is to strictly follow the teachings of Islam. Islam does not allow terrorism at any cost. Islam condemns all violence and terrorism plaguing the world today. Muslims should demonstrate a love for peace and unity. Muslims are facing problems today because they have forgotten the true path. Success of Muslims lies in the unity and they must end their ethnic, regional, and sectarianism differences.

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Eid- ul- Azha in the backdrop of political situation

Like Eid-ul- Fitr, the celebration of Eid-ul-Azha involves some unpleasant events that are usually experienced by the general public. The masses are all set to celebrate Eid ul Azha. The PTI and the PTI has decided to mark the festival at the D Chowk,. PAT Chief has permitted his activists to go to their native towns and after celebration, return back to same venue. The PTI chief Imran Khan has announced that he would stay at the venue while PAT Chief Dr Qadri would lead the Eid prayers. This would bring some relief for the Isoolites to share greetings with their relatives without any fear of getting caught between the protesting parties’ activists and police. Most of the time the inhabitants of the sit-ins areas confined themselves in the home, but due to peaceful sit-ins by the PTI and PAT has gave them courage to move freely in and around the twin cities.
But the other factor which has always been ignored by those sitting on the helms of affairs, is overcharging. Like in the past this time masses are too being fleece by the transport mafia. They have been suffering a lot to buy tickets on regular prices as the transports have raised the fares again without fearing of getting caught. First of all being overcharged then the fear of delay in departure due to change in  schedules or dilapidated  roads always create anxiety among the people who wanted to celebrate  the events with the loved ones in their native towns. Likewise the city administration continues remain a silent spectator. There is no check on the buses stands for overcharging while it is almost next to impossible to get ticket on time without greasing the palm of the officials of the Pakistan Railways. Masses sufferings peak when they get stuck up in long queues on major highways due to heavy traffic. These are the plights recurring in the case of homebound people on the festive occasions of two Eids as all modes of transports and communication network are not capable of withstanding the mad rush of passengers that are witnessed on the eve of two festivals.
Eid-ul-Azha, the second largest religious festival of the Muslims being celebrated today across the country, is all about sacrifice, both spiritual and worldly.  As the Holy Quran mentions, Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) did offer, at the behest of the Almighty, to sacrifice his most beloved son, Hazrat Ismail (AS), nearly 4000 years back. He had thus set a unique example of spiritual love for the Almighty Allah. Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) had showed his readiness to make any sacrifice and prove his unalloyed allegiance to Allah. But the Almighty recognising the true intentions, spared Hazrat Ismail(AS) and sent a lamb to be sacrificed. The followers of the religion of Islam do draw inspiration from this significant event and slaughter sacrificial animals during the Eid-ul-Azha every year recalling the submission the Prophet Ibrahim had made to the Creator.
The core essence of the celebration is that people should strengthen their mental resolve to avoid what is bad for them, their families, relatives, neighbours and the mankind as a whole and make sacrifices for any good cause not just for once in a year but for the year round. In doing so they should concentrate more on serving the humanity selflessly, particularly those who are in distress, financial or otherwise. As the world is getting more complicated, the people belonging to all faiths have become more self-centred. But the spirit of the Eid-ul-Azha teaches them not to be so and asks them to be sympathetic to the poor and needy. This time the political confrontation has created panic among the masses. None of the stakeholders ready to show any flexibility that may lead to end the political impasse despite the hectic efforts of the political jirga to resolve the issue peacefully. The PTI chief is in no mood to leave the D- Chowk until the resignation of the Prime Minister Nawaz Shairf. Saturday, he came up with another surprise by telling his supporters he is expecting mid-term polls are going to be held before next Eid.Well the possibility of clash between the PAT, PTI with the government is not being expected which is good news for the masses. But there are some other problems that worry the citizens. The heaps of leftover meet of sacrificial animals lay unattended for days in most of the areas of the twin cities.
The wastes created through the sacrifice of animals pose a big health threat to people living in cities and towns unless those are collected and disposed of promptly and hygienically. And this year, there has been an additional fear about prior use of steroids for fattening cows etc., in order to go for a higher ask-price for sales of sacrificial animals on this occasion. This has some severe adverse implications for human health.

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Mounting political intolerance

Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) workers on Thursday stormed the hotel in Multan where Awami Muslim League (AML) chief Sheikh Rasheed was due to address a press conference and raised anti-Imran and anti-Sheikh Rasheed slogans. N League workers also threw stones, rotten eggs at the building and tore down Sheikh Rasheed’s campaign posters. A number of PML-N workers also surrounded the Multan Press Club where Sheikh Rasheed was due to address the media and threw rotten eggs and stones.
PML-N Multan leader, Billal (Billu) Butt, said that Sheikh Rashid deserved to be treated like this. He said that Sheikh Rashid deserved to be treated like this. Rashid, while talking to various private TV channels from the hotel said that PMLN leadership had sent these hooligans under the auspices of police only to scare him away. He was of the view that he was seeing situations far worse than this and a bunch of hired goons cannot make him change his mind and he expressed his views in the press conference latter. PMLN workers, who were chanting slogans like ‘Sheeda Talli Haye Haye’, ‘Ro Imran Ro’, ‘Go Imran Go’ etc, also showered eggs on the hotel doors and posters bearing Rashid and other leaders.
It is not the first incident of intolerance in the recent political turmoil in the country; leaders of the political parties are encouraging their supporters and workers to involve in violent activities to embarrass the other political parties. Daughter of the Prime Minister, Nawaz Sharif seems busy in provoking the workers of PML N to get aggressive against anti-government elements in the country. In spite of condemning the shameful act of the workers of the party, Maryam Nawaz backed Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz workers who attacked and tweeted in the social website that, “Now N-leaguers from Lahore and Islamabad should also show some honor (by following the daring example of PML-N Multan). She expressed that time is nigh when Imran Khan will fear stepping out of the container”.
On the one hand, leaders of the PML N are trying to get all the credit for showing political flexibility to let the protesters demonstrating in the capital, outside the parliament building but on the other, leaders are encouraging to the workers to get brutal and attack the anti-government protesters. Quite surprisingly the notion ‘Go Nawaz Go’ has gone viral. Nawaz Sharif went to Kashmir and the people assembled there hurled ‘Go Nawaz Go’. Later on he went to Sargodha and received the same response from the public. Protesters also gathered outside the United Nations (U.N) headquarters and chanted ‘Go Nawaz Go’ slogans when Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was there to address to the General Assembly of UN. The slogan of ‘Go Nawaz Go’ haunted Pakistan’s Prime Minister even in New York as PTI and PAT workers reached the building well before Nawaz Sharif. Holding placards in their hands, the protesters demanded his resignation with the slogan of ‘Go Nawaz Go’. This slogan has created annoyance in the party leadership of the PML N and they are passing embarrassing statements in retaliation to answer go nawaz go slogan.
The rising vicious trends in the politics of the country would not leave a good impact on the masses and it would damage the democracy. It is a free country and laws permit free association with any political party and also freedom of speech and expression of thoughts. But the Political leaders and workers of all the parties must act with in the boundaries of decency. They must also give a second thought to their aggressive behaviors against each others.

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Standing against VIP culture

A case has been registered against Syed Abdul Qadir Gilani, son of former prime minister Yousaf Raza Gilani, and his guards after they allegedly killed a student in Lahore.
The victim, Tahir Malik, and his brother Waheed, were going to a relative’s house on their bike to distribute sacrificial meat, when they came across Qadir Gilani’s motorcade.
Waheed in his statement to the police told that the guards shouted at and abused them, forcing them to stay away from the motorcade and by the time they crossed motorcade the guards opened fire at them, killing Tahir on the spot and he got injured. FIR has been lodged and guard has been arrested and is being interrogated.
Whether this family gets justice or not is another matter. The other family, of course, handed over the guard who was just pawn acting at someone’s orders but what about the master? Murdering any innocent human being is murder of the whole humanity.
Shameful VIP protocol culture of our political elite families, time is changing and elite must mend their ways, else they would be left with no place to hide. People are getting awareness about their rights and they have the feelings against VIP culture that enough is enough and this must be ended.

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Loc violatoins: UN, world community must intervene before situation gets worst

Pakistan despite being a nuclear power never violated the ceasefire and always offered Indian government to resolve the core issue of Kashmir through negotiations. Islamabad held several dialogues with the previous Indian governments to resolve the conflict through talks on the ground that peace can not be achieved in the region without the resolution of Kashmir issue. Pakistan approached in 1949 to United Nations which after carefully listening to both sides passed resolutions asking Indians to resolve the issue as per the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. But New Delhi never honoured the resolutions of the United Nations and instead reducing its forces keep sending more troops to suppress the freedom movement launched by the Kashmirs seeking right to self-determination. Pakistan once again approached the United Nations with a hope that the Secretary General Ban Ki Moon would take the issue seriously and force Indians to honour United Nations resolutions. Since coming to power, the Indian Prime Minister Modi has launched an ‘undeclared war’ against Pakistan by continuously violating the ceasefire at LoC and working boundary. India has now escalated the situation along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir and the Working Boundary. Persistent shelling and firing by Indian forces has resulted in heavy civilian casualties on the Pakistan side. During the period 1-10 October, 2014, 20 ceasefire violations along the Line of Control and 22 violations along the Working Boundary were reported, resulting in 12 civilian casualties, 52 injured civilians and 9 injured military personnel on the Pakistani side. From June to August 2014, there were 99 ceasefire violations along the Line of Control and 32 along the Working Boundary. In all, during 2014, 174 ceasefire violations along the Line of Control and 60 along the Working Boundary have been reported.
While defence analysts are of the strong opinion that further escalation would damage New Delhi’s reputation as a responsible nation and could rekindle a separatist insurgency on its side of Kashmir. Modi’s new policy is being orchestrated by Ajit Doval, Indian’s national security adviser, a retired intelligence official notorious for his role in dangerous counter-insurgency missions. Ajit Doval has been strongly campaigning tough action against Pakistan-based militant groups. Before joining Narendra Modi’s government, Doval reportedly told India must lay down core security policies, one of which was “zero tolerance” for acts of aggression.
In August, after days of cross-border firing between India and Pakistan, Doval reportedly attended a meeting along with the head of BSF in which a decision was made to give free hand to the commanders in held Jammu and Kashmir. There are also some elements in India who do not favour such kind of skirmishes with Pakistan. The Indian defence annalists comparing the policy of the previous government noted that most of time the previous governments only keep blaming Pakistan of helping insurgents, but BSF or the army was never given a free hand by those governments. The Modi government has taken very tough stand against Pakistan that could lead to war which can not be afforded by the both governments, they maintained. India is deliberately putting pressure on Pakistani security forces by opening the new front. The message from Modi administration seems very clear: ‘We will teach you a lesson.’ He has been also criticized by the Congress and other parties for pushing Indians towards another war with Islamabad. Even the Indians living in the border areas of Held Kashmir for decades are raising voices against Mode administration for ruining the peace in the areas bordering Pakistan.
The violations of ceasefire by the Indian forces at a time when our armed forces are successfully achieving the goals of operation Zarb-e-Azab appeared to be well-planned conspiracy on the part of New Delhi. World community especially the US must notice the situation immediately and stop Indian naked aggression against Pakistan as it could be harmful for the Washington too which is already in the process of pulling its forces out of Afghanistan.
Modi must not underestimate the power of the Pakistan armed forces. Our armed forces are fully capable to defend every inch of the country’s soil besides giving befitting response to any aggression. Islamabad has told New Delhi not to test its patience. Pakistan has exercised utmost restraint and responsibility in responding to these provocations. Our security forces are only responding to the continued unprovoked Indian firing along side LoC and working boundary. Indian army and BSF know very well that Pakistan forces have the capability to respond with full might but as responsible and civilized nation, Pakistan demonstrating maximum restraints. Indians must not consider our policy as our weakness. Islamabad hopes that better sense would prevail on the Indian side as war is no solution to conflict as it brings nothing but destruction. Prime Minister Modi must understand that he is playing with the fire that could engulf his house too.

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