This is in reference to the clash between Pakistan Awami Tehrik workers and Punjab Police in Lahore, which led to the deaths of innocent people including women, which is absolutely deplorable and inappropriate. Incidents like this one need to be avoided, especially at a time when the armed forces have launched a full-fledged military operation in North Waziristan as sanctioned by the government. All segments of society including the media and major political parties supported the government’s decision to launch the operation to eliminate the menace of terrorism. However, it is very unfortunate that some elements in pursuance of their political interests appear to have lost sight of our collective national goal of eliminating the scourge of terrorism, and continue to allege that the army and the government are not on the same page on the issue of militancy.
Pakistan is passing through a critical phase and is facing terrorism and other challenges which can be countered only through national unity. In this critical juncture, political parties and religious leaders must postpone their schedules of train marches, protest rallies and political meetings as the country is facing serious security issues, and concentrated efforts by the whole nation are needed to combat the menace of terrorism.
ANZA KANWAL,
Rawalpindi, June 19.