The status of Urdu is one major issue that does not seem to be getting its due share of attention. In fact, it seems to be getting no attention at all, either from the government or the citizens. The current policies have caused a pathetic downfall in the status of our national language. The language policy according to the constitution of Pakistan is: 1) The national language of Pakistan is Urdu and arrangements shall be made for it being used for official and other purposes within fifteen years from the commencement day. 2) The English language may be used for official purposes until arrangements are made for its replacement by Urdu (Article 251 of the constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, 1973). It has been 62 years but, unfortunately, our government has failed to take appropriate measures to replace English with Urdu. We have seen the nations progressing because they took pride in their national language and identity. We on the other hand, are actually embarrassed to the point of hiding our identity and abusing the status of our national language through deliberate dis-use or abuse through adulterations. Those who talk in Urdu are considered backward in our society. English, on the other hand, is a symbol of status. If Urdu is not saved by the state and the people now, it may face extinction in the near future. -FARIHA SAGHIR, Karachi, via e-mail, July 14.