“Afghanistan’s Survival” Post NATO Withdrawal

The US led NATO forces have been in Afghanistan for so long now that it is almost hard to remember why they went in. (Frank Gardner talks to former Afghan Intelligence Chief Amrullah Saleh) 28 January 2013 Last updated at 00:06 ET= http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-21225926. However, the officials often justify by asserting that it was in direct response to Al-Qaeda's attacks of 9/11, planned from Osama Bin Laden's Afghan base. Surprisingly, there is no explanation as to why there have been more than 100,000 troops from 51 countries for more than a decade. And, despite the large number of highly trained army combatants, the insurgency remains a major threat.

Reportedly, by the end of this year, the NATO combat units will quit which means the Afghanistan's national security forces will be on their own when faced with the insurgency.

Initially, the U.S. led NATO forces went into Afghanistan to free the people from the allegedly oppressive regime and to stop terrorism worldwide, yet nothing worked as intended except the country ended up in a real mess. Consequently, there is heightening in the terror activity/insurgency in and around Afghanistan. The expensive “NATO forces’ stay” in Afghanistan reminds of Vietnam-like scenario. Thousands and thousands have been killed that includes the innocent, the elderly and the children. But the bloody conflict is still far from over and of course the financial strain is tremendous.

Wars can be partially won by first hitting the ‘command-and-control’ centre by the air force just to overpower the enemy through destroying its offensive/defensive/ capability. The combatants on the ground have rough time fighting an asymmetric warfare because of the the general population around. Trying to win the "hearts and minds" doesn't work either especially when the locals have suspicions about the intruders or foreign occupiers. The Afghanis are born fighters who love to fight to save each inch of their land. They never compromise when it comes to foreign dominance. Historically, in the past, no foreign army has ever been able to conquer Afghanistan. It’s the tough resistance that makes the attackers retreat. Having lost another war, the NATO is now in ‘retreat mode.’ Billions and billions of dollars have been wasted in Afghanistan.

Mr Obama finally is realising the gravity of the situation: "We have to recognize that Afghanistan will not be a perfect place, and it is not America's responsibility to make it one," Obama said. And, recently, he admitted the lengthy U.S. presence in Afghanistan is proof that "it's harder to end wars than it is to begin them." He outlined a plan to withdraw all but 9,800 American troops by the end of 2014 reducing the number to half by the end of 2015. A complete pull out would take place by the end of 2016.

The left over troops will have advisory role, train Afghan forces and help guide missions to weed out the remaining al Qaeda remnants The U.S. military presence beyond 2014 is conditional upon Afghan government signing a bilateral security agreement. In this regard, the outgoing Afghan President Hamid Karzai has already flatly refused to sign the said treaty. But, the two leading candidates in Afghanistan's presidential race, Abdullah Abdullah and Ashraf Ghani, seem more than willing to sign the treaty quickly right after one of them wins in the second round of voting set for Saturday June 14.

Apparently, Pakistan is nervous adjusting to changes in Afghanistan after 2014. It wants its own influence in Afghanistan where India has little or no presence. The problem is the “non-Pakhtun Afghanis” view Pakistan suspiciously in its power struggle with “Pakhtun Afghanis.” Pakistan’s concern is the non-Pakhtuns’ friendship with Iran and India.

President Obama acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts to support an ‘inclusive reconciliation process’ in which Afghans can determine the future of their country. In this regard, both Obama and Nawaz Shareef are in agreement to let the Taliban join the political process and enter into dialogue with the Afghan government.

Furthermore, Pakistan’s policy depends on the ethnic division in Afghanistan. It seems as if Pak-Afghan relations will not undergo much change because Dr Abdullah or Ashraf Ghani will not waste time in correcting anti Pakistan feelings of Afghanis. The chosen president will surely work for stronger ties with India.

The war is still ongoing: Once a war on terror begins it never ends. Whether there is a treaty with Taliban is not clear. However, non-intervention is affordable medicine because that keeps everyone safer by not getting involved in foreign conflicts."We never signed up to be the permanent security force in Afghanistan to fight against the Taliban," the official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told reporters. The United States now has about 32,000 troops in Afghanistan. U.S. military leaders had pushed for a force of at least around 10,000, saying it was the minimum required. Remaining U.S. and NATO forces will advise Afghan forces, focusing on functions such as budgeting, logistics, and support for security institutions. It’s claimed that the NATO countries have helped build Afghanistan’s military and other forces from scratch since 2001. The Afghan forces have progressed to independence level, yet they lack skills in intelligence collection and air power. Therefore, a small number of U.S. soldiers is expected to conduct counterterrorism operations against al Qaeda and other hardline militants, located mainly in remote areas along Afghanistan’s eastern border with Pakistan. (Re: presence in Afghanistan by 2016 by Steve Holland Washington Tue May 27, 2014 6:28pm EDT).

The partial withdrawal deadline nears, so does the need to regenerate “friendly environment” in the region. There is still a role for Islamabad; however, its ability to influence the outcome has been compromised a little due to the ongoing anti Pakistan propaganda. Nevertheless with passage of time, the Afghans would feel the reality of real love for them that actually stems from Pakistan. Certainly, Pakistanis and Afghanis are related and are sincerely in friendship in deed from the depth of their hearts. Pakistan can still be part of the solution; it can become a relevant and significant player provided it adjusts to the fast-changing situation in Afghanistan as well as in the region. There is strong belief that without Pakistan’s active involvement, Afghanistan will remain highly vulnerable politically, economically and militarily.

Better Leave the 'Bitter Past' Behind!

A journey of thousand miles begins with first step. But, if the first step reminds us of thousands of Muslims who were butchered during the “state orchestrated pogroms” in Gujarat, the initial step automatically becomes too heavy. There is frustration, anger, hatred, and trust deficit - all in one. Most of the people with good conscience know well who really was the chief culprit or abettor of the massacre at the time. The ruthless mass murder can’t be forgiven under any circumstances.

pic face book

Congratulations to India for having Prime Minister with a heavy mandate. Based on his past record of good governance Mr Narendra Modi successfully worked his way up from the position of chief minister to the hot seat of prime minister of India through polls.

With Modi in the driver seat, the well mandated BJP (Bharati Janta Party) has already begun to run the show with full confidence. Yet, it’s too early to suggest whether India’s addiction to keep denting the image of Pakistan would pause for a while to continue later or there would be actual benefits showing up sooner or later. From his body language and facial expressions, it seems as if Modi’s perception hasn’t changed a bit towards Pakistan. Therefore, his pre election “anti Pakistan rhetoric” cannot be taken so lightly.

During the one on one meeting on Tuesday between the Indo Pak leaders, both prime ministers admitted that war was not the solution, so peaceful negotiated settlement is the only option left.

Habitually, PM Modi mainly asked PM Shareef for stopping terrorism, yet he failed to show his intention to disengage Indian involvement in Baluchistan, the Fata and other parts of Pakistan. That’s really depressing. Apparently, Modi copied the ongoing style of maintaining momentum of Indian claim merely to build up pressure on the visiting Pakistani group of high office bearers and the PM Shareef.

According to Pak resources, the Mumbai ordeal was an inside job that was carried out only to defame Pakistan so that the international community has soft corner for India. The problem is Indian propaganda always has been aimed at getting Pakistan declared a rogue state and epicenter of terrorism.

Maybe, Modi’s invitation to PM Shareef is signal that India intends to make the south Asian region to be its sole area of influence. Eye brows are being raised at the BJP’s projected foreign policy to control the region with good economic muscles as promised during the election campaign. This should not apply to Pakistan simply because the nuclear equipped neighbors can move towards the acceptable direction only on the basis of parity and equality.

Under Modi “India will be the regional boss,” is merely India’s over confidence. The fact is Pakistan can’t be under-estimated, because it’s rich with immense natural resources and reserves with a price tag of trillions of dollars. If Baluchistan has gold mines, the FATA has copper mines. There is manpower and there is brain power. Only foreign sponsored terrorism is the main hurdle in the way of development.

Inherent disease: It’s true that because of poverty some people in Pakistan are vulnerable; they can be suppressed, oppressed, manipulated. They end up being corrupt, while the successive regimes tended to be corrupt as well. It’s the obsolete system which needs overhauling for sure.

Coming back to the topic, it’s pretty interesting to note that Indian press reported: The former Indian diplomats and intelligence officials did advise Modi to invite all saarc members as part of a foreign policy masterstroke at the beginning of his tenure to establish India as regional boss. On the contrary, PM Shareef did not have any clue as to what was actually cooking. He should have consulted Pakistani intelligence personnel ahead of accepting the invitation.

The looming fear is the BJP government appears to be adopting a more aggressive nationalistic foreign policy and a more confrontational course with Pakistan.

A big lesson for Pakistani Political elite: The winning secret of the BJP is their past delivery including excellent performance, faster economic growth, infrastructure development, more jobs and less corruption. Mr. Modi has a track record of excellent delivery. He is seen as a competent economic manager now at the national level as well.
Also, the BJP is committed to reconstruct the Ram temple in Ayodhya on the site of the destroyed Babri masjid (anti-Muslim pogroms). By the way, Mr Modi used a picture of Ram as the backdrop at a public meeting at Faizabad near Ayodhya defying the election laws forbidding the use of religion for political purposes.

Quite obviously, India’s massive tilt to the right is expected to put the country on a path to becoming a more assertively Hindu society which is intolerant of other faiths. The question is, where would the Secularism go? Furthermore, BJP campaign was obsessed with the anti-Muslim flavour all the way. Not condemning last year’s anti-Muslim violence in Muzaffarnagar is serious. Not condemning the recent murder of over 40 Bengali Muslims in Assam by Bodo militants is intolerable as well. Modi also warned that once in power he would send the Bangladeshi infiltrators (Muslims) back to Bangladesh.

Good thing:  Pak army remains fully awake to watch the strategic national interests and the vulnerable assets. No matter what, it stands with the government to help protect them and is never interested to sabotage Indo-Pak relationship in the making. Beyond doubt, the Pak Military and ISI (the inter services intelligence) have been competent enough to defending the remainder portion of Pakistan. The two nuclear-armed rivals have fought three conventional wars with no gain.

Prime Minister Shareef suggested the neighbours should use their cultural and traditional similarities to help improve ties."We should remove fears, mistrust and misgivings about each other. Both countries should rid the region of instability and security that has plagued us for decades, he added.

Since the Indo-Pak issues are age old and new ones are creeping in as a result, there is a desperate need for urgent composite dialogue to resolve the outstanding core issues as follows:

·         Kashmir issue on the basis of UN resolutions allowing the right of self determination (Plebiscite).

·         Water issue on the basis of international rights for the lower riparian countries.

·         Ending Indian sponsored terrorism in Pakistan to promote peace in the region for economic prosperity and the bilateral trade.

·         India and Pakistan must jointly help out each other to defuse tensions and the related crises in the region.

Despite the tough stance of BJP towards Pakistan, let’s give it a sincere try to turn a new page in our mutual relations for the benefit of present and future generations.

Plight of the Islamic World During 2013

Another year has almost ended, yet the ‘unfriendly status quo’ continues to irritate the Muslim world, whereas, the Islamic countries are perceived as the worst nations on the planet. Serious crises, worst form of terrorism, and the general unrest is the ongoing fate of these States. Nevertheless, the foreign meddling by the vested interests is usually blamed for all ills.

The problem adds further as the mutilated history of the Islamic World is allowed to spread maliciously based on the ulterior motives.

The fact is the Islamic world has been continuously experiencing loss of life of innocents including children and the elderly. An irreparable damage done to the movable and immovable property runs into billions of dollars because of the ongoing terrorism.
Terrorism: As the word terrorism is not properly defined, we need to be clear about the concept of terrorism in order to fully understand the menace: This barbaric attitude is applied through a ‘systematic use of violence,’ intimidation and threats aimed at coercing to achieve some goal, especially the political ones. In other words, it’s a state of fear and submission.

All terroristic methods of governing or of resisting a government fall under this category. True, some are freedom fighters, but they have been re-categorized as terrorists. This is also a fact that some terrorist groups are proxy warriors employed only to weaken the writ of the targeted country. The rebels are freedom fighters and are terrorists too depending on which side they are on. So it’s a complicated phenomenon, and unfortunately, the so called Muslims (fake ones) are hired to do the dirty job in the Muslim lands through insurgency, militancy and terrorism. But the media is bound to speak for the benefit of its pay master; that paves the way for the stakeholders. In nutshell, terrorism is said to be in existence when National or International laws are disrespected. Some examples of the unpleasant scenarios are as follows:
Bangladesh:

Sadly, a Bangladeshi citizen ( an Islamic scholar of prestige possessing high caliber) has been put to sleep in a rush; the victim had been booked for his pro-Pakistan role dating back to the 1971 Indian sponsored insurgency aimed at clipping the eastern wing of the country.
After 42 years, the government suddenly wakes up to eliminate the opposition leader on the basis of fabricated charges through Kangaroo court. Indeed, this is unlawful judicial terrorism which is nothing but a politically motivated judicial murder just ahead of controversial Jan 5, 2014 general elections. Now, the Bangladeshi officials are busy arresting the protesters/activists from the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and its key ally Jamat-e-Islami in five districts, where police had been clashing with protesters. The BNP keeps refusing to field candidates for the January election, fearing the poll under Hasina will be rigged. Jamat-e-islami, the country’s largest party is barred from contesting the polls. Thus, the opposition is muscling up to topple Hasina.

Egypt: After a prolonged endeavor, Egypt embraced a legitimate democracy briefly and the democratically elected President Morsi was replaced by the illegitimate government with illegitimate constitution. More than 6800 innocents have been mercilessly killed in the last 5 months alone.

Afghanistan: After more than a decade, the country is bracing for the expected consequences once the 2014 withdrawal of foreign troops actually takes place.

Pakistan: Recently, the General Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution calling on the States using drone strikes as a counter-terrorism measure to comply with international law; the UN acted on a range of issues relating specifically to the violation of human rights. The use of remotely piloted planes (DRONES) against the suspected terrorists contained in a comprehensive 28-paragraph resolution: titled “Protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism” has now been regulated. It’s worth mentioning here that the portion about drone strikes was included as a result of intensive efforts made by the Pakistani delegation.

On the other hand: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has ordered the formation of an anti-terrorist task force to combat militancy. The Punjab government intends to employ 400 instructors from Turkey and Pakistan army to train 2000 new recruits. Helicopters and advanced weapons will be provided to the proposed anti- terrorism force.

Another positive development is the European Union has allowed Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP+ package) to Pakistan. The scheme is likely to give a major boost to Pakistan’s exports to Europe, especially the textile and apparel exports. The ‘All Pakistan Textile Mills Association’ (APTMA) expects the GSP Plus status would double the country’s textile exports to US$ 26 billion from the current US$ 13 billion over a four-year period.

Syria and Iran: President Obama was so eager to send his cruise missiles into Syria without having approval from the UN and the Congress. Now, there is no immediate threat of war, also Syria agreed to give up its chemical weapons. However, the furious opposition forces are disappointed because they have been counting on the US air cover to advance their rebellion. Quite apparently, the Syrian rebels are supported by Saudi Arabia, Qatar, while Russia, China and Iran back Syria.

Furthermore, lifting of economic sanctions on Iran has encouraged Iran to give up developing nuclear weapons. Though the interim deal between Iran and P5+1 looks a little fragile at the moment, yet the Muslim countries have to forget about any sectarian differences in order to stand united on single page. Surely, a collective voice is the best path for promoting the world peace.

The Taliban Factor

In view of the Russian invasion of Afghanistan, more money and resources were poured in the madrassa system. Saudi Arabia and the US were more than happy to help Pakistan to win the war on the basis of ideology. Since the motivation was pretty strategic, the wide net work of Islamic madressahs (schools) were engaged as “mujahedeen making factories” to ensure a continuous supply of the trained willing fighters.

Later on, the same mujahedeen were re-labeled as Taliban (Taliban is plural of Talib that means student).
After defeating the soviets, Pakistan encouraged and helped the formation of Taliban regime in Afghanistan to safeguard its own strategic interests. No doubt, having a friendly government in Kabul would secure Pakistan’s western border, but that was never allowed to continue.

Many years afterwards, the relations between OBL (Osama bin Laden) and America deteriorated to a point where Osama was declared as a fugitive criminal. And, the presence of OBL in Afghanistan paved the way for the US military intervention leading to the demise of Taliban government.
With the U.S. control in Kabul, came Mr. Hamid Karzai in power.

Ever since the opportunist India has been successfully exploiting the situation; twelve consular offices are reported to be operative along the PAK Afghan border. It’s one of the major irritants that make Pakistan very nervous.
The armed to teeth militants of the BLA (Baluchistan Liberation Army) and the TTP are equipped with top of the line weaponry. Pakistan always blames the Indian involvement behind terrorist activity throughout Pakistan.

This scenario keeps Pakistan on its toes as its writ continues to remain challenged and compromised. The FATA area menace of militancy on both sides of Pak Afghan fenceless border has destroyed the region economically.
Since the dream of military victory hasn’t come true, as the 2014 withdrawal of the US forces is nearing; a negotiated settlement seems to have potential for some viable solution. However, all stakeholders are to be in agreement.

Pakistan claims that drone strikes are counterproductive; nevertheless, Washington advocates its effectiveness for countering terrorism, and of course this serves as pressure tactics to bring the Taliban to the negotiating table.

The US has already facilitated the opening of office for negotiating with ‘Afghan Taliban’ in Doha, Qatar. Currently, it’s in the midst of peace talks with the Afghan Taliban.
Furthermore, Washington has no objection if Pakistan goes ahead with having dialogue with the banned TTP (Tahreeek-i-Taliban Pakistan).

Nevertheless, the prevailing skepticism makes the critics think that the current universal crisis of terror has been cleverly created by those who have no respect for human values. The terrorists worship money even if they have to create crises.

Indeed, the chaotic scenarios have left the flood gates wide open for the unlimited opportunities to make material gains at the cost of life and property of the innocent. Mysteriously, the media remains addicted to the opportunities as well for monetary gains.
Obviously, it’s not hard to figure out that there are certainly some criminal factions (the so called Taliban) who are like ferocious animals employed to work as merely proxy warriors. These monsters have absolutely no religious affiliations.

Some critics argue against the negotiated settlement. Because, there have been a few peace deals in the past including Shakai, Sargodha peace accord, Miran Shah peace deal, but none worked.
Swat is also a case in point, where the peace deal was messed up, as the Taliban militants attempted to introduce their version of Islam. Thank God, Pakistan armed forces succeeded in liberating Swat after a highly successful military operation.

Facilitating the development of an effective apparatus is needed to control the un-leashed monsters, because the prolonged war against the highly equipped TTP has not yielded any significant result.

The US support for Pakistan’s initiative to hold dialogue with Taliban is like one NOC (no objection certificate). Briefing Pakistan journalists on last week, senior US officials acknowledged that Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif had shared with them his plan to engage the Taliban. “And we told them we have no objection to it as long as the Taliban agree to recognise the Pakistani constitution and respect the rule of law,” said one US official.
Mr Sartaj Aziz said “the government had already covered a lot of grounds and talks with Taliban are likely to start in the next few days.”

In the past, some countries eventually ended up having dialogue with the militants. For example: the IRA in Great Britain and Ireland, the Tamil Tigers in Sri Lanka, and the Naxalites in India and peace talks between the US and the Viet Cong took place when all military means failed.

Acknowledging Pakistan’s efforts to support an inclusive reconciliation process in which Afghans determine the future of their country, both Obama and Nawaz wanted the Taliban to join the political process and enter into dialogue with the Afghan government.

Unfortunately the Muslims have already been divided in sects such as Shia, Sunni (Deobandi, Brailvi), Wahabee, Malki, Ahle Quran, Ahle Hadith, and many more with their own agendas not to serve Allah but others.
"As for those who divide their religion and break up into sects, thou have no part in them in the least: Their affair is with Allah: He will in the end tell them the truth of all that they did." (The Quran Surah Al-An'am (6:159).

Let’s give the peace deal another try to save the innocent lives.
Only as a last resort, Pak Army would need a clear mandate for an all out operation for completely wiping out the militant element.

“Ray of Hope amid Climate of Mistrust”

Most probably, the political leadership in India is addicted to score political mileage through cursing Pakistan. Higher the degree of allegations and hatred against Pakistan, more are the chances to be elected to come into power. If that’s really the case, Dr Manmohan (81) has been up to the mark with his anti Pakistan tough tone, while addressing the General Assembly recently.
Following the speech of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif in the general assembly, the prime minister of India had to target Pakistan labeling it as the “epicenter of terrorism” in South Asia.
The Indian premier didn’t even hesitate a bit while repeating the same “memorized version” of his story during his one on one meeting with President Obama.

Is it a reality that the Indian voters hate Pakistan so much that their PM felt so pressured to shift most of the blame of his regime’s failure towards Pakistan in order to get elected again next year? The audience can easily figure out the answer. Here, Indian premier’s attitude suggests there is a significant political mileage in Indian politics through blaming Pakistan. The fact of the matter is Mr. Singh’s party faces an electoral challenge early next year against the extremist Hindu parties that have called for a tougher position against Pakistan.

On the contrary, Nawaz Sharif (63) was more optimistic while telling the United Nations last Friday that he wanted “a new beginning” with India. “We stand ready to re-engage with India in a substantive and purposeful dialogue,” he said during his speech to the United Nations General Assembly. Vow!

Yet, India stubbornly creates negative arguments by complaining about non-action on the Mumbai attacks and blames Pakistan’s inability to suppress jihadi elements and the recent LoC violence. But, Pakistan has been rightly upset due to India’s lack of willingness to take up the core issues including Kashmir, Sir Creek and Siachen and the issue of Pakistan’s share of water from the flowing rivers.

Thank God, subsequent to the “heavily polluted Indian speech” in the general assembly, the ‘aftershocks’ changed into friendlier atmosphere to bring the rivals closer during their one on one meeting in the larger India Pakistan dynamic. Though, many claim it was just a waste of time as it ended up with nothing but inaction, yet any benefit of the said meeting cannot be overlooked either. Mr. Singh was very cautious during his meeting with Mr. Nawaz. Probably, there is a great deal of trouble for his political party to survive the 2014 election.

In spite of all this, Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif believe that normalization of ties is the desired outcome between India and Pakistan. Moreover, Prime Minister Sharif asserted for a sustained dialogue between the two countries. The two countries can prosper while making movement on the issues which have adversely affected relations. Sadly, both sides failed to come up with a workable mechanism to achieve the goal of normalization.
Positive development: According to Shivshankar Menon (India’s national security adviser), Mr. Singh and Mr. Sharif are in agreement to remove Kashmir related tensions which triggered three wars between Pakistan and India since 1947. The leaders have also pledged to push senior military officers to find “effective means” of restoring a 2003 cease-fire in Kashmir, said Mr. Menon.

Both the premiers agreed to pay visits to each other's respective countries. Of course, something is better than nothing.
Other problem is the economic position of India is not as sound as it was four years ago. The future condition of diplomatic relations between India and the U.S. is also preparing for a rough ride ahead. If the BJP assumes power in India after winning the upcoming Indian elections, a different scenario is quite predictable: The next expected Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, has been twice denied visas to go to the USA, in 2005 and again in 2013, on the basis of his record of human rights violations. Therefore, it’s quite likely that the entire ball game with respect to Indo-US relations changes.

It may safely be presumed after the Manmohan’s recent visit to the U.S., that the era of U.S.-India understanding is almost over.
Friendly relations between India and Pakistan are of crucial importance for mutual trade and economic well being indeed.
Since, Indian water terrorism is costing Pakistan in terms of agriculture and its economic prosperity, India must stop violating water rights of the low riparian Pakistan.

Beyond doubt, there is a desperate need for improving the India-Pakistan equation. Mr. Sharif seems moving slowly and carefully. And, Mr. Singh is not so sure for his re-election. So, at end of the day, there is nothing but inaction.
Quite obviously, the words without action are meaningless.

Thus, without wasting further time and resources, a resolution of all outstanding matters, including Jammu and Kashmir, foreign interference in Balochistan, Siachen, Sir Creek and water issues must be a top priority to pave the way for viable friendship between the long time rivals.
The key word is security; prosperity follows it.

Civil Armed Forces Rescuing Microcosmic Karachi

It has never been so difficult to figure out the significance and the negative impact of bringing public life to a standstill in the country’s commercial city. Obviously, if Karachi sinks, it would take rest of the country with it.
Most probably, that’s what serves the enemy. Amid various ongoing national crises, the enemy benefits the most by engaging criminal elements and other professionals best suited for proxy war against the country.

On the other hand, Pakistan’s problem number one is its fake democracy which is usually based on unfair means. The unfair pressure tactics which work very well in favour of the potential candidate to get elected or re-elected over and over regardless of his lacking integrity or his poor past role.

Unfortunately, the influential political mafia is habitual of always getting actively engaged for grabbing power at whatever cost. Like it or not, the vulnerable naive public goes along quietly just to avoid any probable reprisals.
Not only, the fear factor but the rigging and over stuffing the ballot boxes are causes of valid concern, hence, there are many question marks about the legality of polls.

Furthermore, from time to time, fingers are pointed and the eye browS raised about the efficacy of electoral process in Pakistan.
If electing the dishonest or incompetent electable is a democracy, then it’s highly unfair with the politically aware masses who want to exercise their right to choose brilliantly based on nothing but merit. But, the current system opens gates of national and provincial assemblies for all sorts of people including the human vultures that now are in as representatives of the voiceless majority.

As seen, the status quo of malpractice continues to grow unchecked, thus, burdens the national exchequer, and because keeping incompetent ruling elite and the sleepy opposition is way too expensive and a big financial burden on the tax payers’ pockets.
Painfully, these politicians turn out to be nothing more than worthless national asset, hence a major liability.
A fake politician only safeguards his own/personal interests, hence, is unable to go beyond a lip service leading to nothing more than a poor delivery.


With all that said above, it becomes quite clear how the situation becomes quite ripe for the anti social activity. Actually, the motivated bad groups are actively involved in doing maximum damage to commercial hub of the country.
The way Karachi presents its shameful picture, and the momentum of destruction continues to strengthen the deadly scenario, Pakistan's vulnerability becomes thought provoking.
Looking at Karachi issue for a close analysis, we need to be assured first if the targeted operation is really working favourably. And, in case the civil armed operation doesn’t backfire, of course, that really means positive news.
Nevertheless, it’s too early to expect the desired goal as targeted, because the intended correction is time consuming, of course.

No doubt, it has been a severe headache handling a number of proxy forces. And the Taliban factor, Liyari Gangs, target killers, extortionists, transport mafia, land mafia, water mafia, aliens, selfish elite of politicians have already gone out of control.
MQM’s recent request for targeted army operation is unacceptable for a number of reasons.
All we need is a de-politicised police force and the Rangers. Surely, they can deliver if properly equipped and given more powers to fight out the armed to teeth thugs and terrorists.

In fact, recently, the Rangers and the Police have been equipped with better quality of State apparatus plus communication devices and an improved investigation system. So, they should be able to get good results soon.
We are hearing that the provincial government has prepared a strategy under which Sindh Police is being strengthened by virtue of its total strength, effective training, raising their mobility, its equipments, provision of latest arms and ammunition, incentives, legal protection and creating new wings of special force to combat the criminal at any time on permanent basis. Hopefully, with this type of commitment, there will be good results.

The ongoing targeted operation against the ‘target killers,’ ‘terrorists,’ ‘extortionists and the kidnappers’ seems to be really followed by an effective strategy to ensure a viable peace and tranquility in Karachi.
Importantly, the return from his visit abroad, Sindh Governor Dr. Ishrat ul Ebad is back to his office. That is likely to help defuse the sky rocketing temperature.
However, the self exiled MQM chief Altaf Hussain, a British citizen has his own addiction at will to remote control Karachi from London. Whatever the case maybe, the MQM should show its love for Pakistan by supporting the current ‘Karachi Operation,’ because otherwise, it would be impossible for the operation in the city to continue.
Furthermore, there is high chance for the city to experience worsening circumstances without all parties on board actually.
The other important reality is Karachi is inhabited by around “twenty million” people who belong to different sects and ethnicities, so an autonomous local government is a genuine need of the hour. Otherwise, deprivation of the fundamental rights of Karachiites to govern themselves will keep causing the painful frustration and the siege mentality.
Summing up, it’s worth mentioning that only a careful “diagnosis of the real enemy” is a must to minimize the collateral damage.
I must add here that an efficient and totally fair “surgical cleansing” of Karachi will bring a viable peace.
Certainly, upon return of normalcy, the city will be back to where it was before the deterioration began originally decades ago.

Giving Peace a Chance !



Withdrawal deadline of NATO forces from Afghanistan nears, so does the  need to regenerate “friendly environment”  in the region. Indeed, negotiating with Afghan Taliban is of crucial importance at this hour.

Similarly, Taliban on Pakistan side have to give peace a chance too. There is no doubt that sectarian warfare has turned Pakistan upside down: To a great extent, there is  a justification in finger pointing towards Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Punjabi Taliban, FATA warriors, the secessionists in Balochistan, the Balochistan liberation army (BLA) as they keep defying WRIT of the STATE creating difficult scenario for the region unfortunately.

And of course, the warring gangs of Karachi have added further fuel to the painful reality, yet with the aggravating law and order situation, the authorities also are increasingly becoming too incapacitated to crack down on the (anti-Pakistan) proxy warriors.

The Taliban factions including the foreign intruders are successfully launching their attacks all over the country. They even have penetrated the security forces.

The fact is Karachi-the commercial hub now resembles a battlefield, where proxy war is being fought to satisfy the stakeholders.

Furthermore, the degree of looting, target killing and kidnapping for ransom is severe enough to scare off the peaceful citizens.

Sadly, the paralysis of country’s administrative machinery and the ongoing terror attacks in Karachi and elsewhere, especially the “Shiite-genocide” at different locations show that the enemy appears determined to dismantle the country at all cost by using all available tactics.  The patriotic Pakistanis are justified to suspect - a major game plan is at play to break up the country into pieces. God forbid! Certainly, the religious extremism is un-Islamic thing, which becomes a weapon (remote control) in the hands of mysterious stakeholders. The irony is, the security apparatus is only functional to protect the VIPs in Pakistan, while the vulnerable public remain prone to the deadly attacks 24/7. Hence, government’s commitment to the fight against terrorism is increasingly becoming questionable.

Some TV channels are suggesting the militants of Lashkar-e-Jhangvi (LeJ) and Sipah-e-Sahaba (SSP) in Karachi are involved in the recent merciless genocide of the ill fated Shias of Abbas Town and the killing of Hazaras as well.

Though, Taliban claim to establish a strict Muslim religious order, yet their track record of "brutality and terrorism" show their anti humanity (anti Islam) mindset. They have indulged in destruction of schools, places of worship, market places, housing complexes and public property. They have killed over 45,000 innocent Pakistani civilians so far. In complicity with other terrorist groups, these Taliban are still involved in target killings and massive genocide in the major cities of Pakistan.

Enough is enough: It’s time for sitting on the negotiating table for all parties in the region. Therefore, Pakistan is now fully supporting the Taliban’s new address outside Afghanistan.

In this regard, British Prime Minister David Cameron hosted Afghanistan's President Hamid Karzai and Pakistan's President Asif Zardari  for trilateral talks on Afghanistan's peace and reconciliation process. The three leaders agreed to open an office in Qatar's capital for negotiations, expecting the Taliban to soften their hardline stance against discussions.

Subsequent to the recent five days dialogue between the Afghan Taliban and the U.S. in  Doha Qatar, Pak foreign minister Khar’s visit there does indicate the  determination to bring peace in the region.  However, the Afghan Taliban at Doha once again insisted for the release of their prisoners and kept rejecting the government of President Hamid Karzai. On the other hand, Pakistani Taliban militants have welcomed the five-point declaration of an All Parties Conference (APC) called by the Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam (JUI-F) for steps to restore peace in Pakistan’s restive tribal areas.

It’s noteworthy that the political parties have sent a positive message by excluding the word "terrorism" from the 'Joint Declaration.' The Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) gives it high regards. (Dawn News). Thirty political parties agreed on forming a grand tribal jirga representing all schools of thought. However, the Taliban want to propose their own names for representing them in the grand assembly. It’s been agreed to negotiate peace with the militant elements through a grand tribal group comprising 17 representatives. The declaration added that practical steps were needed to end lawlessness in the country. The process of peace negotiations would be fully supported to establish a rule of law in the society.  

The APC announced that the incumbent government, the caretaker setup and the next government would be bound to follow declaration. Nevertheless, the declaration is inherently defective for following reasons: Firstly, not taking Pakistan Tehreek-e-insaf (PTI) on board is the biggest blunder which has been made by the APC. Secondly, the one-sided concessions to the Taliban can ruin whatever success the armed forces have achieved against terrorists.

Almost everyone now realizes that only a viable solution through negotiated settlement is in the best interest of Pakistan and the region, but time will tell where the dust settles.