Allow reason to clear the fog that leaves everyone grasping for a hand that will guide them to the promised end rushing through time and age. The incident involving Abdul Qadri Gilani, his security guards and the slain 23-year old Malik Tahir occurs during a time when misguided political discourse and media hyperactivity are found collaborating, making it ever more difficult to view matters without prejudice and in their true context. Progress is hardly ever abrupt. It occurs over time, requires a conscience and consistent effort and remains forever at the mercy of values and behaviors.
Offering blood to the masses, if they so desire, will not satisfy the thirst for justice. Wrongs of a century will not be corrected in a fleeting moment of rage and self-righteousness. In any case, in every case, the one path defined by law and reason will have to be travelled upon to achieve the balance we seek. The much talked about VIP culture will not end with Abdul Qadri Gilani’s demise nor will the PPP have fallen victim if he is found guilty and punished for acts he may have committed.
So far, the Gilani family appears to be co-operating with the police, which has booked the FIR in accordance with the demands of Tahir’s family. Punjab Chief Minister has taken keen interest in the case and asked the police chief to investigate the matter. If there is anything that ought to be demanded, it is that the investigation is impartial and transparent; that the law is allowed to take its course, and not to be deviated by wishes of either party. It is true that the powerful tend to get away with murder here. It is also true that innocents are held guilty. The relevant authorities will have to prevent either of the two from happening.