The government’s sudden realization to take out anti-talk militants should not be seen as an answer to all of our prayers, but instead a meek attempt to placate the public and pretend like things are going according to plan. Rumors are abound about an all-out offensive in key areas such as North Waziristan and South Punjab but the reality is that our experience with this government so far negates any such possibility. Anti-talk militants as a label is flawed, because currently all terrorists are against the negotiation process, or at least those that matter, such as the higher-ups in TTP and LeJ. Hence if the state is targeting ‘bad’ terrorists, the list is endless. The degree of force used is also an unanswered question which the state needs to think about if they really are considering doing something that actually makes a difference.
A decisive decision is required along with the firm will to do what is necessary, which is precisely what are rulers are currently lacking in. Recent interviews of party notables such as Chaudhary Nisar and Khawaja Asif have indicated disagreement within the government as to the steps to be taken going forward. Tensions are reflected in the words of the PML-N cadres because some seem to prefer talking, while others are more inclined towards a comprehensive end to this bloody mess. The shaky stance can be seen through every action of the state and the increased frequency of attacks which the government has been helpless to prevent. The internal tussle needs to be resolved before which is proving tricky because both sides are adamant on using their model.
If anything, Nawaz Sharif only has a moderate retaliation in mind, because the effort required to do anything more seems to be beyond him. Some terrorists, will die, along with some of our own, and then more will take their place. Nothing will change. TTP and all the others will continue to enjoy open access to all their financial links and will still be able to travel throughout the country, destroying and brain-washing at will. Safe houses will still be impenetrable against the defense forces of Pakistan in the heart of our most populated province, but there will be no safety for those on the hit-list of the militants. For every citizen that falls, there will be a prayer and condolences for their families.There is no point in hoping, and we should all just resign ourselves to the fact that the present order will continue.