THE Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, the organization responsible for carrying out a series of deadly terrorist attacks, killing hundreds of innocent Pakistanis is fast crumbling down. At one time, when it was in full swing, staging attacks like the one on ISI headquarters in Lahore, it seemed almost impossible that it could ever be checked and defeated. But the military operation, the death of its top leader Baitullah Mehsud and arrests of some of his main aides dealt a big blow to the outfit. With reports of infighting and rift in the TTP leadership, the recent development is that Maulvi Muhammad Faqir is claiming to be its new chief. What's more, he is not the only member who aspires to lead the group; there are other contenders fighting for power as well. Both Hakeemullah Mehsud and Waliur Rahman see themselves as rightful successors of Baitullah Mehsud. Likewise, serious differences over support for the leadership issue have emerged as the chunk of the outfit based in tribal areas appears desirous to assert itself. Apart from the succession issue, the infighting is also over the sharing of resources and booty. Reportedly, several members belonging to the TTP have been killed because of this intra-outfit conflict. While this state of affairs is a far cry from the cohesiveness that the organization had under the command of Baitullah Mehsud who has now been confirmed dead, it is an ideal moment for the army to strike and eliminate the existing part of the network. A lot is at stake in the fight against militancy. The important thing is that the writ of the state must be restored. The TTP forces stand badly demoralized. The authorities must have a close look at the ground realities and act fast keeping in mind the best interests of the country rather than launch an operation at the instance of an outside power that ultimately militates against them.