Contesting space

This is in reference to an incisive piece, ‘Space for the individual’ (Dec 4, TNS), by Dr Kamran. According to the writer, in a modern egalitarian state, a dialectical relationship is developed between the state and society. In such a relationship, space is provided for the individual in which he/she asserts himself/herself. In most post-colonial and authoritarian states like Pakistan, space for the individual is considerably squashed because the state establishes a complete sway over society. After the passing of The Objectives Resolution in 1949, the bureaucratic state completely impinged upon the social sphere. Legitimacy by the state was drawn not from history and tradition but from religion. This trend further intensified in the 1980s.

The way forward for leftist scholars in Pakistan is the primacy of society over the state. Intellectual leadership and stimulus should emanate from academia. The individual should also be allowed to challenge the state and societal narrative.

Akbar Jan Marwat

Islamabad