Break the silence

Kashmir Day was observed across Pakistan on Monday (Feb 5). Throughout the country, state-sponsored seminars and rallies were held. It is commendable that our country has taken a firm stance against Indian oppression in the valley. Additionally, the country has always condemned atrocities committed against the Palestinians without caring for the wrath of the mighty and powerful of the world. But what about following what you preach? What about the atrocities committed against the Pakhtuns and Baloch living within Pakistan? Pakistan has a vibrant civil-society that has the ability of making itself noticed. It has taken up and highlighted many issues in Punjab and Sindh. But it hasn’t taken notice of the same issues taking place in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). The response of the civil society to two identical tragic rape cases of two minor girls, one that took place in Punjab and the other in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, validates my point.

And then there is our independent media. The Pakhtuns are protesting against the unjust killing of Naqeebullah Mehsud for the last six days in Islamabad. But our ‘independent media’ is acting as if the protest does not even exist. Reham Khan’s statements can make headlines, but the Pakhtuns just demands do not deserve even small mention. It is good to express solidarity with Kashmiris, the Palestinians and the Rohingya, but we must also show solidarity with the Pakhtuns and Baloch. We must put our own house in orders. The continuation of such discrimination and atrocities can only lead to deadly consequences. Pakistan cannot survive in such situation. Let us save Pakistan by voicing against such discrimination and atrocities committed against the citizens of Pakistan.

Saqib Ullah Khan Chamkani

Peshawar