The Torkham border

This refers to the editorial, ‘Trouble at Torkham’ (May 13). One of the key reasons for militancy is the uncontrolled entry/exit of people crossing our border with Afghanistan. There is no country in the world where such unchecked movement is permitted. Divided families exist in Pakistan and India as well, but there are strict checks and controls along with proper documentation consistent with international norms. Why should the Torkham border be made an exception?

In fact there is a need for stricter border management not only to stop the movement of undesirable elements, but to also eliminate large-scale smuggling, which is playing havoc with the national economy.

Huma Arif

Karachi