POLITICAL VIBES OF PAKISTAN

THE PLIGHT OF PAKISTANI WOMEN IN CONDITIONS OF CONFLICT BY SHEHZADI ZAMURRAD AWAN, PUBLISHED IN, PAKISTAN TODAY, 4th DEC 2011

2011-12-05T10:55:00.000-08:00

SUFFERINGS OF WOMEN AND CHILDREN IN SWAT AND FATA BY SHEHZADI ZAMURRAD AWAN, PUBLISHED IN CUTTING EDGE, 6 JANUARY 2011

2011-01-07T09:52:00.000-08:00

CIVIC EDUCATION PROMOTES GOOD GOVERNANCE BY SHEHZADI ZAMURRAD AWAN, PUBLISHED IN PAKISTAN POST (NEW YORK), 18 NOVEMBER 2010

2011-01-07T09:26:00.000-08:00

A Review on Punjabi Play “ Kholo Surt Mat di Bari” Organized by ‘Simorgh Women’s Resource and Publication Centre’

2010-10-15T06:58:00.000-07:00

A Review on Punjabi Play “ Kholo Surt Mat di Bari” Organized by ‘Simorgh Women’s Resource and Publication Centre’

On 15th October 2010, a Punjabi play was organized by ‘Simorgh Women’s Resource and Publication Centre’ based upon the findings of an action research project “Ours by Right”. The focus of the play was women’s right of inheritance. The venue of this play was ‘Ali Institute Auditorium, Lahore’. According to the written invitation of the program, the play was to be conducted through a talk and followed by a question answer session with Justice ® Dr. Nasira Javaid Iqbal.
The program started after a delay of one hour, with an introductory note of Naleema Hussain, the coordinator of Samorgh. After the introductory session, Ms.Neleema requested Justice Dr Nasira for her sharing of views on women’s inheritance rights. Dr Nasira, intellectually presented her views focusing the negligence of Pakistani women, over the sensitive issue of inheritance, especially those of women. She enlightened the audience over the proportion of women share in the property of their family as a daughter, sister, wife and even a mother. She further reiterated that women can ask for assistance from court over this issue of inheritance but she should be aware of her rights and she should also make her children aware of their proper rights and responsibilities from childhood. Moreover, she stressed upon the significance of Islamic laws, regarding women share in inheritance, by saying that Islam is the only religion which acknowledges the women equal rights with men but unfortunately our society, due to its patriarchal mind-set is unable to ensure women equality even in such an obvious issues, as inheritance. After the sensitized arguments of Dr Nasira, the theater performance tried to highlight the women share in inheritance, especially in the prospect of rural setting.

After the play, Madiha Gohar, a talented theatre personality was invited to express her views. She disappointed the audience by ignoring the significance of Islamic laws regarding women right of inheritance. She totally disagreed with the views of Dr Nasira and even the views of those performers, who tried to inform the audience about the clear Islamic principles in respect of women inheritance. She further stressed on equal share of women in inheritance instead of the share as described by the Quran. She offended the audience by setting aside the justification of Islam regarding the due share of women in property. Her rather illogical arguments over this sensitive issue were not approved by even her supporters and left the audience in dejection. Before the advent of Islam, the women could not inherent any property and were treated as a house-hold property. Islam granted full share to the male members along with responsibilities regarding their old parents, widowed sisters and other related issues.

According to the program, in interaction and discussion session with participants, when the students from F.C. University and Kinnaird Colleges tried to ask questions over the remarks of Madiha Gohar, but they were “shut off” and the program was concluded by Ms Neelma.

It was completely an inappropriate way to conduct a program, particularly in which the comments of audience (students) were neglected. Moreover, to make this program effective, there was a need to highlight the issue of women inheritance in both rural and urban settings with the addition of academic discussion, accompanied by moderate views.

Shehzadi Zamurrad Awan
Senior Lecturer at Political Science Department
Kinnaird College for Women

POLITICALLY PRONE BY DR SYED FAROOQ HASNAT & SHEHZADI ZAMURRAD AWAN PUBLISHED IN 'THE NEWS' , SUNDAY, 10 OCTOBER 2010

2010-10-11T07:38:00.001-07:00

MQM ON A ROLLER COASTER BY DR SYED FAROOQ HASNAT & SHEHZADI ZAMURRAD AWAN PUBLISHED PAKISTAN POST (NEW YORK),THURSDAY, 07 OCTOBER , 2010

2010-10-11T07:31:00.000-07:00

STRATEGIC IMPORTANCE OF GILGIT-BALTISTAN BY SHEHZADI ZAMURRAD AWAN PUBLISHED IN PAKISTAN POST (NEW YORK), 09 SEPTEMBER , 2010

2010-09-08T12:59:00.000-07:00

GILGIT-BALTISTAN STRIVING FOR POLITICAL MATURITY BY Dr SYED FAROOQ HASNAT & SHEHZADI ZAMURRAD AWAN PUBLISHED IN "THE NEWS", AUGUST 29, 2010

2010-09-03T02:24:00.000-07:00

PAKISTAN SUFFERS UNDER FLOOD WATERS BY SHEHZADI ZAMURRAD AWAN PUBLISHED IN PAKISTAN POST (NEW YORK), AUGUST 26, 2010

2010-09-03T02:17:00.001-07:00

VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN BY SHEHZADI ZAMURRAD AWAN PUBLISHED in THE NATION, AUGUST 22, 2010

2010-09-03T02:13:00.000-07:00

In Pakistan, the issue of domestic abuse has been a focus of attention
for the human rights activists, as well as for the educated women.......

The Pakistani women can achieve their equal status in domestic matters
by equipping themselves with proper education.........

Pakistani society needs to understand the basic principles of Islam,
regarding the equal status of women, so that the miss-interpretation of
Islamic law by orthodox and semi educated mullas, does not take place.........
The first hindrance is deeply entrenched in the social prejudices
against women in the society. Even within families, the mothers
themselves are the biggest culprits, as they provide full support to
their sons, in contrast to their daughters.............
It is vital that the
worth of a woman is taught to boys from early childhood and they are not
brought up to believe that they are of a rank superior to their sisters
and second is to recognise the housework she does is for the male
members of the family to share domestic responsibilities equally.

Click below to read the full article:

http://splus.nation.com.pk/pakistan-news-newspaper-daily-english-online/print/Comment/22-Aug-2010/Violence-against-women

PAKISTAN, AS IT STANDS TODAY BY SYED FAROOQ HASNAT & SHEHZADI ZAMURRAD AWAN: PUBLISHED IN PAKISTAN POST (NEW YORK),

2010-09-03T02:09:00.000-07:00

INDIAN WOMEN UNDER SOCIO-CULTURAL PRESSURES By SHEHZADI ZAMURRAD AWAN

2010-09-03T02:05:00.000-07:00

PAKISTANI WOMEN IN DISTRESS BY SHEHZADI ZAMURRAD AWAN PUBLISHED IN PAKISTAN POST (NEW YORK), 02 SEPTEMBER , 2010

2010-09-03T01:56:00.000-07:00

A Report by Zamurrad Awan on 2nd session of CCEP at Kinnaird College for Women,Lhr

2010-03-28T04:09:00.000-07:00

Second Session of CCEP (Centre for Civic Education Pakistan) on the “Impact of Terrorism on Youth” at Kinnaird College for Women

On 12th of March 2010, Political Science Department of Kinnaird College for Women Lahore arranged the second session on the “Impact of Terrorism on Youth” with the collaboration of “Centre for Civic Education Pakistan”, which is a non-profitable organization based in Islamabad. The purpose of this session was to sensitize Pakistani youth about the growing threat of terrorism and to make them aware of their responsibilities as an active citizen of their motherland. The session was well-planned as it started with an introduction by Syeda Scherbano Abbas, in which she introduced the efforts of CCEP (Centre for Civic Education in Pakistan) regarding an awareness of Youth and their active role in ensuring good governance. After the brief introduction, a Hamd was recited by Sana Iqbal depicting the current insecure situation due to terrorism. Next to this, Sana Iqbal and Namrah Arooj gave a PowerPoint presentation on the concept of terrorism and the role of youth against unbridled terrorism in Pakistan.

After the presentation the guest speaker Mr. Abrar-ul-Haq delivered a thought provoking lecture on an inspirational role of youth in ensuring peace and harmony in Pakistan which is dreadfully at stake because of acute threats of terrorism. Abrar ul Haq is famous for his Pakistani pop, bhangra and folk singing. At one time, Mr. Abrar was also a part of faculty at Aitcheson College. He is the Founder and chairman of Sahara for Life Trust, which is a charitable organization promoting health and education in remote areas of Pakistan. Mr. Abrar ul Haq is also the chairman of Youth Parliament of Pakistan, which is patterned after the National assembly of Pakistan as a model parliament for young people. The Youth Parliament is a largest youth network in the country and its objective is to educate Pakistani youth about politics and democracy and to serve as a useful forum to voice the views of youth about a range of national and international issues.

While delivering a lecture, Mr Abrar introduced his “Sahara Trust for Life”, which is working on 39 projects of Youth Parliament in Southern Punjab as this area is famous for Extremist Madrassas. The purpose of these projects is to provide opportunities to Pakistani youth especially who belong to an underprivileged area so that they could not only polish their own skills but could also represent Pakistani Youth on national and international fronts. Mr Abrar emphasized on youth involvement in non-governmental Organizations which actually play a role of safety wall in current scenario of Pakistan as this could not only help them to get a clear understanding of an issue but simultaneously it would lead them towards a relevant solution.

After Lecture, while answering in Question/Answer Session, Mr Abrar stressed upon the inter-provincial harmony, deep understanding of Religion and promotion of our instigated values which could play a pivotal role in diluting fundamental elements in Pakistan. At the end, he spelled out the audience with his thought provoking poem ““Sar Utha Kar Daes Main jeeny Ka Mosam A Gaya” and revolutionary Punjabi song “Yad Khudayi kar ly k sanwain muk jana, Awain na kar zulm k ek din muk jana”. Moreover Maria Malik recited a Dua for the safety and integrity of Pakistan. In addition to this, Mr Abrar was presented with a gift and bouquet as a token of appreciation by Political Science Department. The format of the session kept the students involved till the end and a tremendous feedback made this event successful.

The whole program was assisted and guided by Ms. Saira Malik (head of Political Science Dept), Ms. Zamurrad Awan (Senior Lecturer of Political Science Dept) and with faculty of Political Science Department. The media coverage of the event was done by Geo television and City 42, Din News and Khabrain.

Zamurrad Awan
Senior Lecturer at Political Science Dept
Kinnaird College for Women, Lhr

Lecture on Structure and Functions of Bureaucracy at Kinnaird College for Women

2010-03-04T10:33:00.002-08:00

Lecture on Structure and Functions of Bureaucracy at Kinnaird College for Women
On 24th February, Political science club of Kinniard College for Women had arranged a lecture of a senior bureaucrat and a chairman of TEVTA (Technical Education and Vocational Training Authority), Mr Saeed Ahmad Alvi on Structure and functions of Bureaucracy in Pakistan. Mr Alvi had started his lecture by defining the term bureaucracy derived from two words Bearu and Cracy, Bearu is a French word means an office and Cracy is a Greek word means rule or power. Therefore, the word bureaucracy reflects the rule of Bearu to handle the administrative actions in any state. The prime function of bearcats is to formulate policy by keeping in mind the needs and demands of public and to execute those policies after getting them pass by legislative branch of government. While defining the structure of bureaucracy in Pakistan, Mr Alvi told that the Federal Public Service is an authority to recruit the civil servants on the basis of merit. He coded Max Weber who presented three points while defining bureaucracy. First is that its a merit base achievement, second is that its bound by rules and the one who deviate from those rules is not been accommodated, thirds is that it’s a non-partisan service and the one who is being selected should not have any party affiliation.
Mr Alvi said that Bureaucracy is in hierarchy, and it has its own grade structure from 1 to 22. The first category is from 1 to 5 which includes peons, office boys and low cater staff, the second category is from 5 to 15 which include ministerial staff (clerks), and the third category from 16 to 22 includes the executive hierarchy. There are special services staff that are outside the hierarchy as they are not recruited through the proper channel but they serve on certain terms and conditions for short or a long time period on the basis of their expertise in certain fields. There is a miss-perception among people that the policies are formulated by legislature (parliament), but the fact is that the policies are initiated and formulated by bearcats, which make a draft law then legislature pass it through a proper debate.
While answering one of the questions Mr Alvi expressed his views about civil bureaucracy and Military Bureaucracy. He said that there isn’t any such kind of division in any country of the world. The bureaucracy is always civil but as we all know we have been a victim of long military rule therefore the history witnessed military intervention in governmental affairs of our state. So it’s a miss-conception. He also encouraged the women in bureaucracy as he stated it’s a good profession for women although they do face chauvinistic attitudes but they have all abilities to stand with men in all fields. If they remain firm about their roles, they can prove their visible presence in every field.
Zamurrad Awan
Lecturer
Kinnaird College for Women

A Report on the First Session of “Role of Youth in Good Governance” at Kinnaird College for Women with Collaboration of CCEP by Zamurrad Awan

2009-12-29T11:55:00.000-08:00

A Report on the First Session of “Role of Youth in Good Governance” at Kinnaird College for Women with Collaboration of Centre for Civic Education Pakistan

On 24th of November 2009, the Political Science Department of Kinnaird College for Women Lahore arranged the first session on the “Role of Youth in Good Governance” with the collaboration of “Centre for Civic Education Pakistan”, which is a non-profitable organization based in Islamabad. The purpose of this session was to sensitize the youth and to make them aware of their responsibilities as a citizen of their motherland. The session was well-planned as it started with the introduction of first session in which Syeda Scherbano introduced the CCEP and its efforts in regard of awakening Youth for their role in ensuring good governance. After the brief introduction, Maria Malik gave a PowerPoint presentation on the concept of good governance and how to improve the participation of Youth in good governance.

After the presentation the guest speaker Taimur Rehman delivered an inspirational lecture on the role of youth in ensuring good governance in Pakistan. Mr Taimur Rehman is currently pursuing a Research Degree (PH.D) on the “Class Structure of Pakistan” from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) University of London, and associate with Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS), Lahore School of Economics and Lahore College of Arts and Sciences as a visiting faculty of economics and international relations department. Simultaneously, he is a founding member of a music group known as Laal Band which is famous for its revolutionary songs based on social and political issues of society.

The political science department also made a play of 20 minutes with the title “is paikar-e-khaki main bher lo ma’e muhabbat-e-watan”, which was written and directed by Namrah Arooj and Sana Iqbal. The play was on the prevailing environment of social and political unrest in Pakistan which is a main cause of hopelessness in the new generation. The purpose of the play was to aware Pakistani youth about their responsibilities towards this country and the theme of the play was well-received by the audience. After the play, the Principal, Dr Bernadette L. Dean shared her views on the active participation of youth in promoting good governance. At the end, Mr. Taimur spelled out the audience with the magic of a revolutionary song “Umeed e Sahar” written by Faiz Ahmed Faiz. The format of the session kept the students involved till the end and a tremendous feedback made this program successful.

The whole programme was assisted and guided by Ms. Saira Malik (head of Political Science Department) and Ms. Zamurrad Awan. The media coverage of the event was done by Geo television and City 42 and Khabrain.
Zamurrad awan
Political Science Dept
Kinnaird College for Women Lhr

History of Indo-Pak Relation

2009-12-02T07:29:00.000-08:00

History of Indo-Pak Relation

The year 1947 came with the partition of subcontinent in two separate independent states called India and Pakistan which is being considered pre-module by one school of thought however the other school of thought consider it instrumental. Both countries do share much of their common geographic location, and religious demographics yet the unsatisfactory relationship with each other is defined by psychological, ideological and territorial difference which resulted in numerous military conflicts and territorial disputes between them. The hostile relation started between India and Pakistan on the unequal distribution of assets, canal water dispute, and inadequate territorial division which caused serious threat to Pakistani state.

The relationship between India and Pakistan since independence has been troubled and hostile marked by wholesale communal massacres at the time of the partition of British India and three wars and innumerable minor conflicts and disputes subsequently. One critical factor in this history has been the pre-partition heritage of the two political movements that dominated the political environment in the subcontinent both before and after independence – the Indian National Congress and the Muslim League. Most of the political and social concepts that dominated the ideology and psychology of the narrow elites that controlled these two movements survived into the independence period and have not disappeared. This has been particularly true of their intensely negative perceptions of each other, which, moreover, were retained in most respects by a younger generation that otherwise rejected much of the ideology of the older elite.

The importance of this pre-partition heritage is evident in the rhetoric Indians and Pakistanis used in reference to each other a quarter-century after independence. Political literature from both sides, for instance, continues to be filled with discussions of the relevance of the “two-nation” theory, moreover the military regimes have nurtured such sentiments between India and Pakistan. Sumit Ganguly writes in his book “Conflict unending: India-Pakistan tensions since 1947”that the “images of Indian perfidy and duplicity pervaded Pakistani official publications and educational material. The popular press which failed to develop norms of dispassionate reportage and analysis, contributed to chauvinist accounts of Indian malfeasance s and Pakistan grievances.” The sentiments of hatred were further being endorsed by the people who faced brutal attitude by Indians while migrating from India to Pakistan after independence.

The ideological differences between both states before their emergence widened even after their independent stature. For centuries Hindus, have dominated the population of South Asia with a smaller but also prominent Muslim minority, concentrated in the northwest and east, areas that eventually formed the modern countries of Pakistan and Bangladesh. Many political and religious leaders of both groups have seen this religious and cultural split as a key to the dispute, especially in Kashmir, where there is a significant Muslim population living under the rule of New Delhi. Currently, Kashmir remains in a state of military occupation, and both sides continue to incite rebellions on either side of the dividing line, hoping to break off parts of the other's territory.

India and Pakistan since the very moment of their birth have grown ever further apart; and their policies both domestic and international have evolved in increasingly divergent ways. Pakistan is locked in other territorial disputes with India such as the Siachen Glacier, Kori creek and especially over the possession of the State of Jammu and Kashmir, over which India and Pakistan fought two major wars in 1948. 1965. and 1971. The third war between India and Pakistan was fought in 1971 which started from East Pakistan but after that spread to the western border. As a result, the Kashmir state again became the theater of same battles, and the old ceasefire line was upset at many points, moreover, in result of 1971 war, Pakistan lost East Pakistan which became Bangladesh. However, in Simla agreement in 1972, both states agreed to resolve their differences through bilateral negotiations or by any other peaceful means mutually agreed upon between them and in accordance with the United Nations Charter. But the tense relations between Indo-Pak continued and in 1998, India and Pakistan did their nuclear tests to display their nuclear technology. In 1999, Kargil war started in Kashmir. India with its propaganda mechanism projected Pakistan as aggressor and alleged Pakistan with promoting cross-border terrorism in Kashmir. Pakistan emphasized that Kashmir is the core issue between Indo-Pak hostile attitude and stresses that Indo-Pak relations cannot become friendly until Kashmir imbroglio is resolved. Pakistan has declared time and again that it is ready to negotiate with India any time, anywhere and at any on the issue of Kashmir. But India wanted cross border terrorism to be discussed. This was the reason for the failure of Lahore declaration and Agra summit in past.

There was an east been observed in Indo-Pak relation in the result of a ceasefire between the two countries in 2003 and fencing of the Line of Control being carried out by the Indian Army. Both India and Pakistan have launched several mutual confidence-building measures (CBMs) to ease tensions between the two. These include more high-level talks, easing visa restrictions, restarting of cricket matches between the two.

Unfortunately the peaceful environment could not work for a long time and in 2008 ten terrorist attacked on Mumbai and killed over 160 people. India blamed the Lashkar-e-Taiba, a Pakistan-based Welfare group, for planning and executing the attacks. Islamabad resisted the claims and demanded evidence which they had not been provided as such. India provided evidence in the form of interrogations, weapons, candy wrappers, Pakistani Brand Milk Packets, and telephone, sets which were not enough to accept the involvement of Pakistan in Bombay attack.

No doubt, India is recognized as a biggest democracy of the world but its hegemonic aims to get dominance in the region has troubled the relation between India and Pakistan. As India is focusing on its agreement and pacts with Israel, United States and China instead of paying head on relation with its next door neighbor Pakistan. Both countries need flexibility in their attitude by putting behind their differences, so that they could develop healthy relation which would not only consolidate their socio-economic ties but would strengthen the whole region in the long run.
Lecturer
Zamurrad Awan
Kinnaird College for Women

A Report on the Lecture of Defense Analyst Dr. Ayesha Siddiqa at Kinnaird College for Women Lahore

2009-11-27T03:09:00.000-08:00

Lecture of Defense Analyst Dr. Ayesha Siddiqa at Kinnaird College for Women Lahore

Dr. Ayesha Siddiqa Agha is an independent security analyst and strategic affairs columnist of Pakistan. She is also a regular op-ed contributor to Dawn, and before that to Daily Times. Dr Siddiqa visited Kinnaird College for women for her lecture on Friday ,20th November 2009 and refreshed her old sweet memories as an old kcite. She delivered her lecture on “US Presence in South Asian Region” and handled the question answer session at the end. The lecture was of 40 minutes and Dr Siddiqa smartly handled this short time however the topic of her lecture was broad.
According to Dr Siddiqa, the countries built relation on the basis of their interests and US has erratic relation with South Asian region which was build during the cold war when Afghanistan played its role as a buffer state between US and USSR. Indian’s had a socialist policy during that movement. In 1958 Pakistan opted to join two arrangements CEATO and CENTO which was not liked by Muslim countries especially Egypt however Pakistan received military and financial assistance by US and made it clear to satisfy India that “weapons provided to fight would not be used against India to combat communism”. The relation between US and USSR had been affected the South Asian region. In 1962 when tension started between China and India, US was eager to help India instead of Pakistan’s unhappiness. US realized that its presence in this region means if they would help India, Pakistan will remain be unhappy and vise versa. In 1965 war Pakistan faced embargo. During 1970s India signed friendship treaty with USSR and received equipment on concessional rates. For Pakistan, US and China both are important, Pakistan is the only non-communist state to receive economic aid from US. So US contained USSR with the help of China by thinking its better to use a minor enemy against the big enemy.
After defining the history of relation between US and South Asia, Dr Siddiqa said that Amercia’s relations with this region developed gradually as there is a long geographical distance between both and the end of 1970s changed the situation when US had zero sum game with South Asian countries. In 1979, Soviet invasion in Afghanistan and Iranian revolution further reshaped the relations between US and South Asian countries. Pakistan started the training of Jihandi’s during 1970s, the last days of Bhutto’s government. The Soviet invasion in Afghanistan was to reach warm water in Pakistan but resulted in disintegration of USSR in 1990s.In 1990s, there was a new world as US happened to be the only supper power and were thinking to be the only supper power and were thinking to have a new relation with South Asian region and has started building economic and military relations and India became significant in this regard. The significant role of academia can not be neglected; who worked on India-US relation after Indra Gandhi who supported socialism in past but the new leadership propagated the capitalist state. The tension emerged between US and Pakistan. 9/11 incident was a miles tone between US/South Asia and resulted in first war in Afghanistan, second the emergence of non-state actors as a force, third the expansion of South Asia (when US joined SAARC), fourth the Bill Clinton started this strategy that we will engage in both India –Pakistan at the same time and China followed the same policy. China builds up the relation with India as they don’t want to be hostile to anyone out of both. Dr Ayesha remarked that American engagement in South Asia was build on the principles that what the other states will offer to them, but this relationship strategy can not be understand without the conspiracy theory. The important thing is that some important personals of government institutions had been caught in connection with Al-Qaeda, which shows the actual presence of Americans in this region. While concluding her lecture, Dr Siddiqa said that US can leave this region on two conditions, first if Pakistan agrees to leave and say good bye to democracy, second if Pakistan and India have bad relations.

Lecturer: Zamurrad Awan
Political Science Dept
Kinnaird College for Women Lhr

The Madrassah Challenge: Militancy and Religious Education in Pakistan by C Christine Fair

2009-06-28T06:28:00.000-07:00

BOOK REVIEW: The madrassa puzzle in Pakistan —by Khaled Ahmed
The Madrassah Challenge: Militancy and Religious Education in Pakistan; By C Christine Fair; Vanguard Books Lahore 2009; Pp145; Price Rs 500

On the face of it, no madrassa looks either jihadi or sectarian, but research has shown that the seminarians are more narrow-minded and intolerant than the pupils of normal schools

Christine Fair served at the Centre for Conflict Analysis and Prevention of the United States Institute of Peace, and currently is a senior political scientist with the RAND Corporation. She is co-author of Fortifying Pakistan: The Role of U.S Interim Security Assistance (USIP Press, 2006).

According to an estimate in Jang (January 6, 2006), there were 11,221 religious seminaries (madrassas) in Pakistan in the year 2005. This number had grown from 6,761 in 2000. This meant that in the five years that also saw the terrorist attack of 9/11, the apostatising seminaries had almost doubled in Pakistan. There were 448 madrassas for women too.

The largest number of madrassas, 8,191, belonged to Wifaqul Madaris Arabiya, 1,952 to Tanzimul Madaris and 381 to Wifaqul Madaris Shia. The majority seminaries are Deobandi. For instance, in Punjab 444,156 pupils are Deobandi as opposed to 199,733 Barelvi, 34,253 Ahle Hadith and 7,333 Shia. The largest number of madrassas is not in Lahore but Bahawalpur, then in Lahore, in Bahawalnagar and Faisalabad.

It is accepted that South Punjab is home to the most aggressive and poisoned of all madrassas. South Punjab stretches from Jhang to Bahawalpur, dotted with madrassas that private citizens from Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Kuwait fund generously, thinking they are spreading the message of Islam. This is the region where the countryside is dominated by feudal lords with large landholdings and cities teeming with the poor masses controlled by jihadi groups.

Only in Dera Ghazi Khan, the origin of the dreaded clerics of Lal Masjid in Islamabad, there are 185 registered madrassas, of which 90 are Deobandi (with a total of 324 teachers), 84 are Barelvi (with a total of 212 teachers), six are Ahle Hadith (107 teachers) and five are Fiqh-e-Jafaria (10 teachers). Multan is the traditional base of madrassas, while Rahimyar Khan and Bahawalpur have seen their proliferation in recent years.

Together with Peshawar, Islamabad is the most vulnerable city as far as the possibility of a sudden takeover by the Taliban is concerned. Islamabad was supposed to have 80 madrassas just two years ago. Reported in Jang (June 18, 2009), the government had discovered that there were 260 madrassas in Islamabad, out of which one dozen were illegal. Some madrassas were busy spreading hatred against the armed forces of Pakistan. One Jamia Masjid Qasimiya in F-8/3 and its leader Ehsanullah Khan were warned by government to give up these activities in 15 days.

Ms Fair thinks that in some ways the madrassas in the Islamic world are the centre of a civil war of ideas. Westernised and usually affluent Muslims lack an interest in religious matters, but religious scholars, marginalised by modernisation, seek to assert their own relevance by insisting on orthodoxy. She writes: “Poor students attending madrassa find it easy to believe that the West, loyal to uncaring and aloof leaders, is responsible for their misery and that Islam as practiced in its earliest form can deliver them.”

But she is careful to point out that a study had revealed that terrorists in involved in the 1998 bombing of two US embassies in Africa, the September 11, 2001, attacks, the Bali nightclub bombing, and the London bombings in July 2005 were not madrassa graduates. The masterminds of the attacks had had university degrees. (p.5) In a survey she scans, of the 141 mujahideen in the data set, the vast majority served and died in Kashmir. Of these mujahideen, only nineteen were reportedly recruited at a madrassa—the same number recruited at a public school.

But she can’t completely absolve the madrassa of all blame. She says: “Available evidence suggests that madrassas are important sources of supply of suicide attackers in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Attacks in Afghanistan are relevant because many are attackers from madrassas in Pakistan’s tribal areas. The reasons for this are not quite clear. In the case of Afghanistan, the validity of suicide attacks as an acceptable means of warfare are contested, with many Afghans seeing them as suicide rather than a legitimate mode of waging jihad.” (p.68)

According to her the registered madrassas in Pakistan number just over 6,700. Since a Pakistani will usually accept 20,000 as the total number, one must assume that the state will have a tough time registering those that stand outside the record. One reason could be the condition of rendering annual audit account, telling the government how much money was contributed by whom.

She finds the madrassas in the following order: Wafaq-ul-Madaris Arabia Pakistan (Deobandi) founded in 1959 in Multan; Tanzeem-ul-Madaris (Barelvi) founded in 1960 in Lahore; Wafaq-ul-Madaris Salafia (Ahl-e-Hadith) founded in 1955 in Faisalabad; RabitatuI Madaris Islamiya (Jama’at-e Islami) founded in 1983 in Mansoora Lahore; and Wafaq-ul-Madaris (Shia) founded in 1959 in Lahore.

Fair also finds the terrorists better educated than the average Pakistani: “Of those thirty-three madrassa products, 27 attended a madrassa for four or fewer years, and most also attended public schools. In contrast, 82 of the 141 were very well educated by Pakistani standards, with at least a matriculation qualification tenth-grade education, in stark contrast to the average level for Pakistani males. Only 9 of the 141 had no formal education, the militants in this sample were much better educated than the average Pakistani male.” (p.69)

She finds that many madrassas refuse to accept government funding because they think the money is coming from America. She discovered it to be true as “the amount allocated to Pakistan through USAID exactly equals the funding pledged by the government to the religious sector”. (p.86)

The madrassas insisted to her that there was no evidence that their students were involved in illegal activities. She could recall that the younger brother of Hanbali, Al Qaeda’s organiser in Southeast Asia, and mastermind of the Bali blasts, was arrested along with 17 people from Malaysia, Indonesia, and Burma, and in raids on three madrassas in Karachi.

Fair writes: “I did confirm during fieldwork that substantial numbers of foreign students from Africa, Europe and the United Kingdom, the Middle East and Central, South, and Southeast Asia were at many of the madrassas visited. In fact, Jamia Banuria at SITE in Karachi still has a large foreign students’ section, and one can still visit its Website to obtain information about applying for the foreign students’ programme’.” (p.90)

Some facts are well known about the madrassa background of some jihadi leaders. For instance, the leader of Jamia Banuria, Mufti Nizamuddin Shamzai, was the patron of both Harkatul Mujahideen and Jaish-e-Muhammad and inclined more to the latter as the two bickered and split. The leader of Jaish, Maulana Masood Azhar, was his student at Jamia Banuria. So was the leader of Sipah Sahaba, Maulana Azam Tariq.

Shamzai headed many madrassas and was funded generously by Saudi Arabia. On the face of it, no madrassa looks either jihadi or sectarian, but research has shown that the seminarians are more narrow-minded and intolerant than the pupils of normal schools. *

Report on Training Workshop organized by Centre for Civic Education Pakistan written by Zamurrad awan

2009-05-02T00:53:00.000-07:00

Report on Training Workshop organized by Centre for Civic Education Pakistan

Centre for Civic education (CCE), which is a nonprofit organization, organized a training workshop on Civic Education and Youth participation from 30th January 2009 to 26th April 2009, based on five modules held Islamabad. The workshop took place in the lecture hall of Allama Iqbal Open University, Islamabad. The stay for the non-resident participants of Islamabad was also arranged by CCE in the hostel of AIOU. The workshop was highly organized as hereafter the CCE reimbursed the travel and food allowances. Moreover, to make this workshop more interactive and timely, Mr.Quresh Khattak, Mr.Murtaza Noor and Ms Hafza worked efficiently under the kind supervision of Mr .Zafaraullah Khan, Executive Director of Centre for Civic Education. The workshop exclusively involved the students accompanied by their teachers from different colleges and universities. Therefore, the students were being invited from Kinnaird College for women Lahore, Quaid-e-Azam University Islamabad, Peshawar University, Preston University Islamabad, Comsat College, Punjab University Lahore, Allama Iqbal Open University, and Islamic University Islamabad.
The purpose of this workshop was to sensitize students as well as the teachers regarding their positive and active role in democratic structure of Pakistan. Moreover, the objective of this training was to give them a sense of shared responsibility regarding their different role in society. Therefore, CCE organized lectures of renowned scholars, arranged activities and encouraged youth for participation through proper dialogue techniques.

The methodology through which this organization started its work was to inform, inspire and involve the youth in respective fields so that the social justice and equality which is not more then a dream for the down trodden class of our society can be ensure. To achieve this objective the interactive exercises were being arranged.

The first module was held on the development of communication skills in effective citizenship. The basic purpose was to enlighten the participants about the significance of effective communication skills for an active citizen. The 2nd module was based on civic activism, rule of law and Good Governance. The scholars who delivered their lectures on Good governance and the responsibility and role of citizens further highlighted its importance in the active citizenship.

The 3rd module was particularly addressed the most debatable issue of extremism which make the participants aware of its effects on the lives of common people. Moreover, the strategies have been discussed through which the violence can be counter. The 4th module particularly addressed Islam in contemporary world, which highlights the modern approach of Islam, so that the students get a better understanding of Islam which is not merely a religion but also a full code of conduct for living a life. The last session of this module focused on the activities which these students would organize in their own institutes after going back to their universities and colleges. It was told to them that they could take any of the topics addressed in these 5 modules to arrange a one day workshop. So that the motive to sensitize the youth of Pakistan could not stop, as the students are the real policy makers for future.

The 5th and the last module based on the citizenship in the age of Globalization, the purpose was to view the diversities and commonalities in contemporary civilization. In this last module the certificates were even distributed to the students qualified in this training workshop. The ceremony of certificate distribution took place in Sareena Hotel Islamabad.

Zamurrad Awan
Lecturer at Kinnaird College for Women, Lhr
zamurredawan@yahoo.com

Fake Video to Sabotage the Peace Agreement in Sawat by Zamurrad Awan

2009-04-10T11:01:00.000-07:00

Questions in mind after watching such a fake video

• Does Islam allow any punishment to the women over any sin, in such an exposing way?
• Is it possible that after receiving these lashed, a women feel herself ok to get up and to move any place as has been seen in the video?
• If it really happened, didn’t the Taliban aware that they are being captured while doing such act, when we find them highly alert and organize in their all violent actions?
• The timing of sending such video is highly addressable as it was send when the peace agreement was in its way to be discussed?
• Can’t be West as a beneficiary of this video, who are already in search to prove Pakistan in respect of Islam an antagonist and fundamentalist country, where they think, there is no respect of any human lives?

Zamurrad Awan
Kinnaird College for Women, lhr
zamurredawan@yahoo.com

Gender Biased Society of Pakistan (A Case-Study of Mukhtaran Mai) by Zamurrad Awan

2009-04-09T23:16:00.000-07:00

Gender Biased Society of Pakistan
(A Case-Study of Mukhtaran Mai)

The status of women in Pakistan varies considerably across classes, regions and the rural/urban divide due to uneven socioeconomic development and the impact of tribal, feudal and capitalist social formations on women’s lives. The Pakistani women of today enjoy a better status than most Islamic and Middle Eastern women. However, on an average,, the women’s situation vis-à-vis men is one of systematic subordination, although there have been attempts by the government and enlightened groups to elevate the status of women in Pakistani society.

Pakistani society is male dominated society where women are the centre of attention and life but this society also consider women as no more than secondary citizens which is perhaps due to the traditional; norms prevailing in the whole society. The role and status of Pakistani women in all walks of life has been highly undermined. Though over the years this scenario has changed and the awareness of woman’s abilities, her rights and her status has reached almost all parts of Pakistan which is a third world country. but this privilege of the right acknowledgment is limited as the majority of Pakistani women belong to the rural areas who work in the fields and in the industrial centre. It is a pool and virtually illiterate majority, which leads a life of physical hardship involving long hours at tedious chores for which there is neither compensation nor recognition. Most of these women bear the double burden of housework and outside work. Not only do these women have longer days than the rest of the family, but also being the last to eat, they eat less well and suffer from anemia and malnutrition.

The violence against women in Pakistan is dilemma of our society. Feminists and women’s groups in Pakistan have criticized the Pakistani government and it’s leaders for white washing the prosecution of women and typing to suppress information about their plight in the international arena. Skepticism and biased attitudes against women’s complaints of violence are common among prosecutors, police officers and medicolegal doctors in Pakistan. According to reports from 1990s, such complaints often delayed/mishandled processing and inadequate/improper investigation. The crimes against the women in Pakistan has its various forms like Sexual Abuse, Women Trafficking, Dowry abuse, Domestic Violence, Honor Killings, Marriage to Quran and many other form. After many ups and downs in the case The Lahore high court ruled on 6 June 2005 that the accused men could be released on payment of a 50,000 rupees ($840) bond. However, the men were unable to come up with the money, and remained in jail while the prosecution appealed their acquittal. Just over two weeks later, the Supreme Court intervened and suspended the acquittals of the five men as well as the eight who were acquitted at the original 2002 trial. All 14 would be retried in the Supreme Court.

The daunting step of a rural woman with an un-influential background is no doubt a source of inspiration for those women of Pakistan who never dares to break the barriers and bear the physical and mental victimization of their rights. Mukhtaran never stopped here; she was picked up by women national and international NGOs, and Human tights activist. She was nominated for many awards and souvenirs.
On 15th March 2009, Mukhtaran Mai, 37 years married to Nasir Abbas Gabol, a 30 years old police officer who was assigned to protect her as her case gained notoriety. She has been criticized for her legal marriage, when she reserved all rights regarding every decision about her life. That is totally her personal decisions, and it comes in to the personal liberty of one individual. She did lot of work for the development of her region despite of the reality that her region witnessed the cruel act of human history with her. A decent society is not easy to attain, it can only he achieved when the society has a deep sense of responsibility regarding its citizens and when the state ensure the personal privacy to its citizens. It’s the time to change the set pattern of society; in fact it’s the time to broaden our minds regarding the most sensitive issue of women rights. It’s high time now that we bear the brunt of the patriarchal mind set of our society, which make many women in relation with daughters, sisters, mothers and wives.

Lets finish the case of Mukhtaran with a thought provoking statement of an unknown writer “She’s not a feminist, she’s not an educated person, she does not have any personal politics. Yes, because of her own experience, she has an oppositional consciousness, but without really knowing why. She has a right to get along with her life”

by Zamurrad Awan
Kinnaird College for women Lhr
zamurredawan@yahoo.com

Problems of South Asian Countries by Zamurrad Awan & Yawar Hayat Shah

2009-04-09T02:17:00.000-07:00

Problems of South Asian Countries

Pakistan
• Progressive Deterioration of Internal Security
• Terrorism/Extremism/Sectarianism
• Energy Crisis/Limited Energy Resources/High Dependency on imported Furnace Oil/Country wide Power Shortage
• Scarcity of Irrigation Water/ Water Crisis/Mega Water Reservoirs
• Food Shortage (e.g. severe flour shortage)
• Currant Account/ Trade Deficit
• Fiscal Deficit
• High indigenous and foreign debt
• Staggering Unemployment & Poverty
• Inadequate Health Facilities (e.g. High infant/maternal mortality rate)
• Exploitation of Women
• Violation of Human Rights
• No Agricultural taxation
• Droughts and famine
• Adulteration of Fertilizers
• Low growth rates in industry manufacturing and service sector
• Low per-capita income and HDI
• High Population growth rate
• High Defence Budget
• Lack of Foreign Direct Investment
• Frequent disruption of democratic governance due to military coups
• Dynastic Politics
• Absence of internal democracy in Political Parties

Bangladesh
• Frequent Military Take over
• Sharply polarized political environment
• Population Explosion
• Fail to reduce poverty
• Fail in delivery of basic services
• High illiteracy rate
• Low pace of development
India
• Human Rights Abuses
• Insufficient economic growth
• Political challenges slowing down the pace of economic development reforms
• Low per-capita income
• HIV/AIDS pandemic
• Environmental degradation
• High population rate
• Female infanticide
• Communal Violence
• Terrorist incidents
• Separationists and cessationists insurgencies (e.g. Kashmir, Mewos, Nagas, Maos)

Sri-Lanka
• Terrorist insurgency by LTTE
• 18 years old civil war
• Tension with India over Tamil issue
• Ecological Problems
Nepal
• Low per capita income
• High rate of poverty
• Bad governance
• Social injustice
• Distorted distribution f income, wealth and human capital
• Lack of social harmony

Zamurrad Awan & Yawar Hayat Shah

Responsibility of Media towards Ensuring Good Governance in Pakistan by Zamurrad Awan

2009-04-06T04:04:00.001-07:00

Responsibility of Media towards Ensuring Good Governance in Pakistan

One of the most important elements of good governance in any country is the existence of free and impartial media which could make the access of common citizen possible to any happening or event. media consists of multifarious organizations such as Radio, Television, newspaper, web explorer, which serves as channels for a limitless range of conflicting views on virtually all issues, and which are frequently in competition with each other. In Pakistan, according to the All-Pakistan Newspaper Society (APNS), the total combined circulation figure for daily newspapers and other periodicals was 3.5 million in 1997. Print media included 424 dailies, 718 weeklies, 107 fortnightlies, and 553 monthlies. However, the Nation wide local access was established in Pakistan within one year, and by 1999 was available to 600,000 computers, 60,000 users by 3,102 Internet hosts. These figures expose the important role of media in this age of advancement. The primary role of the media is the dissemination of information, a process through which it provides the citizens of a country with information about the programs, policies and activities of the government and also serves a watchdog function.

Media is a vehicle which guarantees the free flow of information and ideas necessary for an effective functioning of a democratic society. Although media is not formally a institution of government, but it is considered as fourth institution of government machinery after legislature, executive and judiciary. As the matter of fact, media professionals are the representatives of the people but they are not been elected but they serve as an agents of the people in that they act on behalf of the people when they seek out and disseminate information on which the people need to make political judgments and other decisions that are important for their well-beings.

The case of developing countries in regard of media policy and practice is different from the developed countries. In Developing countries, the high rates of illiteracy and widespread ignorance among a majority of their populations about the most basic issues of national importance and unavailability of basic necessities does not let them analyze the routine policies of government. Thus the prevailing disorder in the developing countries demands high responsibility on the part of media to inform the citizen and to enlighten them about political, economic and social issues. It also has a responsibility to subject government policies, programs and activities in to scrutiny and to expose corruption, misconduct and incompetence in government.

Unfortunately, this is often difficult for many leaders to do. They see any demand for accountability as a challenge to their power and authority, as an attempt to control them. They view demands for transparency as an insult to their integrity, even when they are stealing the people blind. They see the media, which embodies all of these, as a nuisance, at best, and as an enemy, at the worst. They therefore devote their resources and energies to fighting these “enemies” who seek to introduce instruments or establish institutions of accountability and transparency. All that is required is for governments and political leaders to recognize that they have a batter chance of making progress and bringing development to their countries when they expand the pool of ideas available to them by allowing effective pubic participation in the governance process.

In respect to Pakistan, the1973 Constitution provides for its citizens' fundamental rights, one of which pertains specifically to the Press, Article 19, Freedom of Speech:

Every citizen shall have the right to freedom of speech and expression, and there shall be freedom of the press, subject to any reasonable restrictions imposed by law in the interest of the glory of Islam or the integrity, security or defense of Pakistan or any part thereof, friendly relations with foreign states, public order, decency or morality, or in relation to contempt of court, commission of or incitement to an offense.

This particular article guarantees the freedom of expression and freedom of the press, but it also talk about the "reasonable restrictions", so that the check could be made on the given freedom of individuals as well as of organizations to avoid any encroachments of rights. The media history in Paksiatn exhibits the bitter realities that whenever the military take over the rule, media had to face certain restrictions. In 1963 the Press and Publications Ordinance (PPO) came into being containing the harshest of laws curtailing freedom of expression and the progressive development of the media and leading to the March 1969 relinquishing of power by President Ayub Khan to General Yahya Khan who imposed martial law. In 1977, General Zia ul Haq ousted Bhutto from the prime minister position and once again imposed martial law under which abuse of journalists became public rather than covert. Journalists were flogged in public at Zia's whim. Not one single law or regulation of any progressive character was created during Zia's rule. In 1988, Benaiz Bhutto as a successor of Zulfiqar ali Bhutoo became a first Women Prim Minster of Pakisatan, She brought with her a new phase of liberalism toward the mass media laws and regulations. For example, Bhutto's government allowed government-controlled radio and television to provide daily and well-balanced coverage of the speeches and statements of its opposition in news bulletins and current affairs programs. Because the print media reaches such a small percentage of the population, this change had a significant impact on the pubic, but was returned to the old, one-sided coverage after only four months because of pressure on Bhutto by her party, the Pakistan People's Party. Specifically, the Ministry of Information no longer required issuance of permits to import newsprint and allowed a free and open system of importing newsprint at market prices.

In1997, when Pakistan Muslim League (N) came in to power , Sharif used many heavy-handed methods to deal with journalists who dared to criticize his government. He put tremendous pressure on independent journalists, using both covert and overt means of retribution. In 1999: General Pervez Musharraf overthrows Sharif, suspends the constitution, and declares martial law; government agents raid the country's most influential newspaper, Jang, because it was too critical of the government. On 1^st March 2002, Pakistan electronic regulatory authority ordinance was promulgated to regulate broadcast media in Pakistan, which was further criticized as it put restrictions on the freedom of broadcast media.

Its worth mentioning here that somehow or the other, the media is somewhere neglecting its positive an effective role to inform the citizen and its now become a tool to harass the viewers regarding the particular happening or event. To expose the dead bodies, to show the blood shed to a large scale can not give the public a food of thought in fact it prevail chaos and disturbance in society. The Television channels are being high jacked by the political parties, the journalist are writing for the particular political parties, the impartiality of the media is begin effected by such policies. The Pakistan peoples party came in third time rule after the general elections 2008, and Prime Minister Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani in his first address on 25^th March 2008 to the parliament showed his willingness towards the freedom of media by declaring the Pemra ordinance null and void which was implemented in Musharaff regime to put the jinee of Media in the bottle. In this regard the role of former information Sherry Rehman can not be over looked who did not only allow media to record the regular proceedings of the parliament session but only resigned as she was not being discussed in some decisions related to her ministry. In such situation the media has an imperative role of not only the provision of quick and unbiased information but also to educate people socially and politically. The pessimist role of media being observed now a days, as electronic media isn’t reluctant to show the undressed dead bodies with blood which is no doubt a psychologically a bad effect on the minds of people. It’s the true fact that the people who watch television and who expire web belongs to every age, it is against the dignity of human being to expose violent actions resulted in the form of massive lose of lives in such a inhuman way. No developed county allow to on air such kinds of videos on media. Though the free media is one of the important element to ensure good governance but media need to be well aware of its responsibilities and it should not be allowed to disrespect humanity under the cover of freedom of expression.

Reference:

1. Owais Aslam Ali. Pakistan Press Freedom Report 2000. Available from http://www.oneworld.org.

2. Sarah Chaudhary, Voice of the Nation in Nation:Sunday plus,Vol.25,November 2007, pg 18

3. "Country Profile: Pakistan." Facts on File News Services. Available from http://www.2facts.com.

4. Jabbar, Javed, and Qazi Faez Isa. Mass Media Laws and Regulations in Pakistan and a Commentary from an Historical Perspective. Singapore: Asian Media Information & Communication Centre, 1997.

Zamurrad Awan
Lecturer
Kinnaird College for Women, Lhr
zamurredawan@yahoo.com

Women in Politics by Zamurrad AWan

2009-02-28T09:21:00.000-08:00

Women in Politics

Pakistani society from its outset exhibits the patriarchal mind set with the dominance of male members over their women folk. The cultural obligations of Pakistani society predominantly supported the conservative elements; consequently women participation in social, economic and political spheres was substantially curtailed. Before going in to the details of women political status in Pakistan it would be worth mentioning that the women struggled for their rights even in Europe to whom we idealize in regard of liberal society. April Carter in his book “Politics of Women rights” reveals that prior to the First World War (1914-1918) women were fully involved in household work. By the end of the Second World War (1939-1945) however women role underwent a complete transformation. In 1960 the doors for the higher education were opened up for them that was the time when in Europe, women started participating in economic, social but political spheres.
The history of women participation in Pakistani politics started from the days of Pakistan movement, when these women worked day and night along with their male colleagues with the unflinching commitment and reposed full faith in their leader Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. However, their participation could not ensure them about their future in the new social and political settings of an independent state. After 1947, though the Pakistan attained its independence from the colonial rule, however, women continued to play a role that of a second fiddle to their male counter parts. After independence, in the first constituent assembly there were only two women to represent all the women of Pakistan. Paradoxically, when the second constituent assembly was constituted not even a single woman was given representation in it. Similarly, in the process of the framing of the first constitution of 1956, not a single woman got opportunity to represent the women of Pakistan. In 1956 constitution the female suffrage and right to vote for women on the general and reserved seats was accepted but the Martial law was imposed in 1958 and the first constitution was abrogated. However, under the strenuous pressure of a prominent organization ‘All Pakistan Women Association’ with other newly constituted women NGOs (Non Governmental Organizations) Muslim Family Law Ordinance was promulgated in 1961. Ulema started a massive agitation against MFLO but the ordinance was welcomed by the civil society. In 1965, Ayub Khan decided to hold national elections in which Fatima Jinnah emerged as his opponent. Ironically despite his modernist pretensions he acquired the services of certain ulema and entrusted them with the task of issuing disparaging statements against the women leadership in an Islamic state. The election results witnessed massive rigging in polls and Ayub Khan unexpectedly won the elections, though apparently he became the president but he lost the credibility. The women candidate for such a prestigious office demonstrated how active the women in Pakistan were; moreover, it infused a new lease of life among the women activists thus the struggle for their equal status was greatly re-enforced.
In 1970 elections, women participation was not only encouraged by the political parties , establishing women wings to further motivate women in polls. The political parties included the women related issue in their manifestos. Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto assumed powers in 1971, who had a liberal approach towards women empowerment. During his election campaign he mobilized women section of society to come out of their houses to cast their votes. But when the constitution making assembly was formed, only three women had been included to represent the women of Pakistan. In 1973 constitution Article 25, 27, 32, 34, and 228 ensured non-discrimination on the basis of gender but unfortunately it failed to emancipate women. In parliament, 10% seats were reserved for women; all high posts of executive and political level were opened up for women. However, the number of women seats in parliament was very small in comparison to their proportion in population.
Amrita Basu in her research paper “Women Political Parties and Social Movement in South Asia” stated “the Zia regime (1977-1988) was engaged in far-reaching programs of Islamization that sought to rescind women’s rights and reduce their public visibility.” He constituted discriminatory laws against women with the full support of religious political parties in the form Hudood Ordinance, Law of Evidence, law of Qisas and Diyat, which marginalized women in social, economic and political spheres. These laws targeted the women section of society to appease the conservative mind sets in government, consequently women role was confined in every field of life. The ambivalent stance of the Political parties in Pakistan towards women empowerment marginalized them from the rest of the society. Therefore they remained dependent on male members, in matter of their participation in social, economic and political spheres. However, this regime created such circumstances which led to setting up of the women organizations like Women Action Forum, Shirkat Gah etc. These organizations subsequently played pivotal role against women policy of discrimination against women. They made oppressed women aware of their rights and provided them a platform to launch struggle against government’s biased policies.
From 1947 to 1980 the women activism remained quite marginal. In fact the women who participated in politics belonged to the political families, having male relatives already active in politics. Thus those women didn’t represent the middle and lower class women and were not motivated enough to put forward the demands of women section to the Assemblies. Because of patrilineal structure of society the women from middle class found it almost impossible to enter in politics and if few of them managed to succeed; they worked as a rubber stamp to their male counterparts in politics. The same case happened with Benazir Bhutto who was elected as a Prime Minister of Pakistan twice. She faced the Criticism of Mullahs on women leadership during her government. It’s ironical to say that she was assassinated on 27 December 2007 in Rawalpindi on the land where the people called themselves Muslims however Islam strictly condemn the women beating. This was a murder of human rights, women rights both.
In regard of women status in Politics we need to change the mind sets of society. Thought to bring a change is not easy itself and changes are not easily acceptable and mostly they face resentments but this dream can become the reality if we try to educate our society and if we present the true picture of religion by interpreting the Islamic jurisdiction over the women participation in every field whether it is economic, social or political. In this regard we need to provide equal opportunities at par with men.
Zamurrad Awan
Lecturer
Kinnaird College for Women, Lhr
zamurredawan@yahoo.com

Book Review: " Pakistan: Sovereignty Lost" by Khurram Iqbal Awan & zamurrad Awan

2008-07-28T04:23:00.000-07:00

Pakistan:Sovereignty Lost

Pakistan: Sovereignty Lost

By Shahid ur RehmanMr.Books, Islamabad

ISBN: 969-8500-01-4

252 pp. Rs 395.00

……………………………………..

Reviewed by Khurram Iqbal Awan & Zamurrad Awan

zamurredawan@yahoo.comM.phil, political Science

Government College University Lahore

…………………………………….

Foreign Dept is a matter of serious concern when u especially look the situation in to a national security paradigm. It does not only determine the internal condition of a state but also vibrantly communicate the international settings of a that particular state. The real problem arises when the heavy external borrowing could not be used appropriately, therefore no productivity could be ensure.such type of situation leave a deep impact upon the sovereignty of a an independent state.

Mr Shaid ur Rehman, a veteran journalist known for his economic and diplomatic reports, has beautifully figure out the the details of loans which has been miss-used by the governemnt of Pakistan. He said pointed out that the Pakistan contracted loan of worth $80 billion, however $70 billion has been repaid and $ 35 billion yet has to repay. the highly criticised point of the government strategy is that the government of Pakistan in different point of view keep on asking for resheduling or dept relief without realising the heavy burden on Pakatan’s economy in future.
while defining the history of indeptedness in Pakistan, writer shifted the blamed from economic to political decisions, as he said “it’s a national tragedy that not a single Pime Minister, President opr a a military ruler , in the peiod of 59 years, honourably left his office.”In 1947 the first loan was sought by Quaid-e-Azam, worth $2billion immediatelty after independence from the United States, as Pakistan was unable to meet their expenses being a newly born country.anopther request was claimed under the signature of Liaquat Ali khan after the after two days of his assasination, which was really a susopecious act as US envoy Avra Warren met to LiaquatAli khan, four days back and asked for Pakistan to contribute towards Middle East defence. Liaquat made the contribution contingent on a Kashmir solution and not on $2 billion. In fact, Liaquat was broaching a joint defence with Iran and Egypt, against the western bloc.

Shahid ur Rehman tells that in 1952 Wheat was importated to Pakisatn From US with the signs of “Thank you America” hanging from the animals’ necks. that show the serious sign of soveregnity lose in Pakistan, at the same time India on such an aid didnt show any gratituide to the US. Moreover, Writer consider Ayub Khan hihgly responsible to grant the Badaber Base to US to get economic assistance, which add insult to the injury.Shahid ur Rehman reveals that 1989-90 was the first financial year during which debt repayment came first in the federal budget, getting ahead of defence and development (P.74).

Writer veilout that Since 1990, Pakistan is paying $39 million every year to encash one National Highway Authority bond worth $22 million and “nobody knows when, how and why these bonds were issued” (P.84).During 1988-99, loan packages were concluded with IMF by caretaker governments and later signed by prime ministers Benazir and Nawaz Sharif governments the most suprising reality is this, there is no accountablity on these debts.

Every new governemnt didnt try to deal with trhe issue of hight debt crisi , moreover they put t he3ior 100% effort to hide the real view of Pakistan economy from their country man.In 2002 Mr Shuakat Aziz, the then finance minister reportedly told the Paris Club that he would be unable to go back to Pakistan, if he did not get debt relief. The Musharraf government has repaid $27 billion ($20.5 billion principal and $6.5 billion interest) and has reduced the debt by $1 billion. It indicates the borrowings by the military-led government.Shahid ur Rehman figure out that the total external debt of Pakistan is now 54% GDP.

Writer clearly tells that the forign assistance is a serious matter which should be dealt intelligence. if the country take such issues causually then the country would be subservient to out side powers and lending agencies by creating perpetual dependence on them. the same happend to Pakistan.Though, the writer by using original source matrial make a view of debt history of Pakistan but at the same time he has figured out the present scernario with the implications of weak economy on Paksiatn in future.

Kartarpur Corridor: Gateway to South Asian peace

2008-07-12T11:53:00.000-07:00

Kartarpur Corridor
Gateway to South Asian peace
Tridivesh Singh Maini

If one glances through journals and newspapers, or is in an erudite gathering, religion/faith is represented as one of the major causes of global conflict and whenever any discussion about religion begins, the topic is subtly changed. The general refrain towards religion is either, that “religion is a personal issue” (which is not incorrect), or that “religion is responsible for most of the world’s conflicts”, (which is definitely a very half baked thought, though perhaps those who follow this strand of thinking can not distinguish religion from religious fanaticism/false interpretation of religion). Scholars tend to forget that religion can also help in acting as a peacemaker/bridge. It really depends upon how we define “faith” and who propagates it.

In this article, I will use the case study of the “Kartarpur Corridor” (an arrangement where Sikh pilgrims wanting to pay obeisance at then historical Sikh shrine of Kartarpur Sahib located in Pakistan can enter the Pakistani territory without a visa, on the premise that they will return to Indian territory on the same day) being demanded by Sikhs to illustrate how the tenets of Sikhism have helped and are helping in “building bridges” between India and Pakistan [i]. It may be argued that the desire of Sikhs to visit their sacred religious shrines like (Gurdwara Janam Sthan, Nankana Sahib, Punja Sahib and Sacha sauda to name a few) has played a crucial part in improving relations between the two Punjabs (this has contributed positively to Indo- Pak relationship) [ii].
Sikhism as a “bridge” between India and Pakistan

It is a fact that Guru Nanak Dev, founder of the Sikh faith, is revered by many Muslims who respectfully refer to him as Baba Nanak. In fact, the essence of Sikhism is evident from a very famous painting in which one sees Guru Nanak Dev surrounded by both a Hindu (Bala) and a Muslim (Mardana). In one of my recent books titled “South Asian Cooperation and the Role of the Punjabs”, I myself have laid stress on this aspect of Sikhism, which none of us should forget [iii]. In view of the fundamental Sikh message of religious co-existence the Kartarpur Corridor can act as a bridge between two important nations of South Asia namely India and Pakistan.

The other clear illustration of this very aspect is the fact that, the foundation stone of the Golden Temple (Harimandir Sahib) was laid by Mian Mir, a Muslim Sufi Saint (this in spite of the strained relations between the Sikhs and Mughals of that time) [iv]. It is also important to remember that important verses of Baba Farid and other Sufi saints were included in the Guru Granth Sahib [v] by Sikh Gurus.

Before talking about the Kartarpur Corridor, I would like to make it clear that while most Sikhs respect other religions including Islam, some are under the influence of religious bigots who depict Sikh-Muslim relationship in poor light to further their narrow agendas. Organizations like the Rashtriya Swayam Sewak Sangh or the RSS, a Hindu nationalist organization depict Muslims and non-Muslims (especially Sikhs) as natural enemies; such organizations keep harping on the Sikh suffering during Partition of 1947 and on the historic Mughal-Sikh rivalry (they conveniently forget the sacrifices made by Peer Buddu Shah and his family, not to forget Bhai Mardana’s unflinching loyalty to Guru Nanak Dev) [vi]. So, sometimes serious attempts are made to obliterate an important aspect of Sikhism, namely religious co-existence, and it would not be incorrect to say that the attitude of most Sikhs toward their Punjabi brethren across the Wagah [vii] is best described as below:

“After coming to this side of the border we have no alien feeling as we belonged to this area and you belonged to East Punjab, our forefathers were born and later buried in this land besides it was the land of our Guru and we are here to pay homage and offer rituals especially to celebrate Basaikhi with our Pakistani brothers."
A background to Kartarpur Sahib

It is as a result of the efforts of Captain Amarinder Singh (former Chief Minister of Punjab) that the Amritsar-Nankana Sahib bus service has begun and the efforts of overseas Sikhs (especially those based in the United States) that Sikhs have gained access to important shrines like Nankana Sahib (the birth place of the first Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak Dev) and Punja Saheb. In doing so the Sikh ardas (daily supplication) “Hey Akal Purkh! Apne Panth de sada sahai Datar jio! Sri Nankana Sahib te hor Gur-duarian Gur-dhaman de, jinhan ton Panth nun vichhoria gia hai, khullhe darshan didar te seva sanbhal da dan Khalsa ji nin bakhsho” which if translated into English would mean “O immortal God! The constant Helper of his own Panth (Sikh Community), kindly confer the gift of visiting, maintaining, controlling and worshipping, without any restrictions, the Gurdwara of Nankana Sahib Ji, other Gurdwaras, and Gurus Mansions, of which the Khalsa has been deprived” (by the Partition of India) has been answered [viii].

Sikhs are also looking for a religious corridor from Dera Baba Nanak (Indian Punjab) to Kartarpur Sahib, which is located on the Pakistani side and is less then 2 miles from the border [ix].
Guru Nanak spent 17 years of his life in Kartarpur, where he attracted followers from the Hindu and Muslim communities. Kartarpur is a perfect illustration of the pluralist culture of the sub continent, as when Guru Nanak Dev passed away at Kartarpur (in 1539) both Hindus and Muslims laid claim to his body. Ultimately it was decided that overnight, flowers would be placed by both Hindus and Muslims on his body. Whoever’s flowers withered next morning would lose claim. The next morning when the cloth was removed, the body was missing and flowers of both communities were found in the same shape as they had been put in. The two communities finally decided to divide the cloth, and the Muslims buried it while the Hindus consigned it to fire [x]. Therefore both a grave and a smadh exist here. It is correct to say that Dera Baba Nanak, is sacred to all religions as three shrines of Guru Nanak exit in the form of an Islamic grave, a Hindu samadh and the Sikhs’ angitha. Nowhere else in the world three shrines of a single person coexist [xi].

It might be pertinent to mention here that while Sir Cyril Radcliffe (the man in charge of the partition of the sub-continent) was able to divide India and Pakistan but could not divide Kartarpur. When Radcliffe drew the line between India and Pakistan in 1947, the declaration gave the entire Gurdaspur district to Pakistan, but the plan fell threw and the re-division put Kartarpur on the border. A bridge, which joined the two Gurdwaras was bombarded during the 1965 Indo-Pak war. [xii] Perhaps the Almighty desired that this part of the Punjab would once again act as a “bridge” between the two Punjabs and between India and Pakistan.
The demand for a corridor at Kartarpur
The Sikh demand for a religious corridor has been gaining momentum in the last few years and two organizations have been working for this cause -- the Darshan Abhilashi Sanstha led by Kuldip Singh Wadala a senior politician from Indian Punjab and Mr. BS Goraya a peace activist who has set up an organization Kartarpur Sangat Langah. They have been working earnestly since 2001 for the peace corridor proposed to be built between Dera Baba Nanak and Kartarpur Saheb [xiii]. While Wadala has been using political platforms and the media to promote this veritable cause, Mr. BS Goraya brings out a Punjabi magazine which carries articles on the Kartarpur Corridor and other Gurdwaras in Pakistan.

It might be pertinent to mention here that “It was during Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s Lahore visit in 1999 that the Pakistan offered to build a 2 km corridor to enable Indians to visit Gurdwara Dera Sahib without a visa or passport, he points out” [xiv].

As a result of the sincere and earnest efforts of the Darshan Abhilashi Sanstha and Kartarpur Sangat Langah (with support from Captain Amarinder Singh former Chief Minister of East Punjab), the Pakistan government has agreed to the demand of Sikh devotees and this corridor, would be fenced on both sides and no passport or visa would be required, but pilgrims would have to go back the same day [xv]. The Government of Pakistan has now left the ball in the Government of India’s court. According to a newspaper report:

Recently on a visit to India, The PSGPC(Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee) president said the government of Pakistan had already accepted the demand of the Sikh community to construct a corridor between Dera Baba Nanak (India) and Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib (Pakistan). He said Pakistan expected a reciprocal gesture from India so that Sikh devotees could undertake pilgrimage of these gurdwaras without any visa hassles [xvi].

The babus (government functionaries) in the Government of India should pay some heed to the following lines of WH Auden’s poem “Look before you leap” [xvii]:

The sense of danger must not disappear:The way is certainly both short and steep,However gradual it looks from here;Look if you like, but you will have to leap.

On the pretext of “national security” there has been enough procrastination on this issue. The time has come to leap and move forward with the religious corridor at Kartarpur. Perhaps the best tribute to Guru Nanak Dev’s philosophy and the ecumenical principles and tenets of Sikhism is to go ahead with the Kartarpur Corridor, which could act as the gateway to South Asian peace and prosperity.

REFERENCES

[i] Mr Aitzaz Ahsan, former Law, Justice, Interior and Education Minister of Pakistan and Author of Indus Saga made this important point while delivering his speech during the third annual Sher-e-Punjab Maharaja Ranjit Singh Memorial Lecture held at the India Islamic Culture Centre in New Delhi on December 15th 2006. For understanding the influence of both the Bhakti Movement and Sufism on the Sikh faith see Singh, Patwant (1999) “The Sikhs”, pg.16-18 (Harper Collins, New Delhi) ,Also see Neki JS(2007) “Guru Granth Sahib and its context”, pg. 229 (Bhai Vir Singh Sahitya Sadan, New Delhi) for an explanation of the spiritual commonalities between Sikhism and Islam.

[ii] For the improvement in relationship see Maini, TS (2007) “South Asian Cooperation and the Role of the Punjabs”(Siddhartha Publications, New Delhi)

[iii] Maini, TS (2007) “South Asian Cooperation and the Role of the Punjabs”, see pg.87 for the painting of Guru Nanak Dev

[iv]For information on Mian Mir’s links with Sikh Gurus, see Interview with “Makhdoom Syed Chan Pir Qadri on Sikh Muslim Relations”, Issue No.5, October 2002, Sikh Spectrum Website: http://www.sikhspectrum.com/102002/pir_sahib.htm

[v] For the influence of Baba Farid on the Guru Granth Sahib see Neki JS (2007) “ Guru Granth Sahib and its context” pgs. 219-227, 228-229 also See Maini TS, pgs.86-93

[vi] Such propaganda was at it’s peak in 2000 during the earlier Akali-BJP Government in Punjab. Unfortunately many BJP/RSS acolytes still try to promote the view that Sikhs are Anti-Muslim.

[vii] Bhatti, A “Sikh Pilgrims feel at home in Pakistan”, The News, Lahore, April 4th 2007[viii] English translation of Ardas taken from Harbans Singh Doabia “Sacred Nitnem” (1998)

[ix] For Captain Amarinder Singh’s role see The Times of India “ Buses to Sikh shrines in Pakistan” , May 25th 2004, Walia, V “ CM to raise Gurdwara upkeep issue” The Tribune, Chandigarh, January 31st 2004

[x] For the history of Kartarpur Sahib, see Kartarpur Sahib website: www.kartarpurcorridor.com[xi] The Tribune “Call for support to gurdwara corridor”, April 29th 2004

[xii] See Kartarpur Corridor website: Maini, TS (2007) “South Asian Cooperation and the Role of the Punjabs”

[xiii] Interviews with BS Goraya and Kuldip Singh Wadala, See The Tribune “ Wadala threatens dharna at PMO” May 15th 2007, The Tribune, “ Allow visa-free travel to Pak gurdwaras says Wadala”, November 1st 2007

[xiv] The Tribune “Call for support to gurdwara corridor”, April 29th 2004[xv] See Maini, TS, pg.74

[xvi] Walia, V “ Representation for women in PSGPC”, The Tribune, Chandigarh March 21st 2007

[xvii] “Leap before you look” WH Auden,

Book Review: "South Asian Cooperation and the Role of Punjabs" by Zamurrad Awan

2008-06-28T00:34:00.000-07:00

Punjab-Punjab Cooperation

South Asian Cooperation and the Role of Punjabs
By Tridivesh Singh Maini
Siddharth Publications, New Delhi
ISBN: 81-7220-186-9
161pp. Rs 275.00
……………………………………..
Reviewed by Zamurrad Awan
zamurredawan@yahoo.com
student of M.phil, political Science dept
Government College University Lahore
…………………………………….

Regional cooperation in present world scenario is considered as an important ingredient of developmental process in a region. But a region like South Asia which shares its long history of bi-lateral disputes usually has lot of challenges for its future endeavors. In this region, the regional cooperation appeared in a form of South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation (SAARC) which was formed on the initiative of Mr. Zia-ur-Rehman in 1985. The Association consists on India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan as current members but China, European Union, Iran, Japan, Unite States of America and Korea have been given a status of observers. The organization was made originally with the intention of the trade and investment promotion in the region but social and political environment does not let these objectives towards their attainment. Although the countries of this region do share a long history of its heritage, especially its member countries India and Pakistan and Bangladesh passed several years with each other so that’s why few provinces of these countries share common culture and heritage. The peculiarity of this region can surely help to enhance generally social, political and particularly economic cooperation among the countries of this region.

By giving a road map of regional cooperation the author of South Asian Cooperation, Tridivesh Singh Maini being a writer and peace activist emphasized on the contribution of East and West Punjab in the development of SAARC. Miani being a proponent of Indo-Pak healthy relations struggles to highlight the role of Punjabs in both countries for the betterment of not only the strain relations between them but also for the promotion of economic development in the region. He proves that by using the tactics of dialogue the objectives of peace and stability can easily be achieved. For this purpose in his book, after elaborating briefly the important developments in SAARC, he discusses the issues of main concern (Kashmir) in between Pakistan and India with his suggestion of economic and functional integration among countries of South Asia.

While emphasizing the effective role of Countries in regional cooperation, the author of the book skillfully highlights a strong linkage between the Punjabs of India and Pakistan as they share common culture and heritage. They make their attitudes flexible from last 5 to 6 years through the initiative of bus service from Amritsar to Lahore and after that from Amritsar to Nankana Shahab. The flexibility is more vibrant on the part of Pakistani government as they agreed to the demand of Sikh devotees to visit their shrines in West Punjab which was highly appreciated by Amarinder Singh who is a Punjab Chief Minister of east Punjab. Miani attract the reader by giving glimpse of the work of great writers, poets, professionals, saints and Sufis from East and West Punjab who worked without the boundary constraints of their countries and spread the message of peace, love, freedom and welfare, ultimately promote the Punjabiat. Baba Guru Nanak, Baba Bully Shah, Peer Waris Shah are those Punjabi poets who through poetry spread the great message of unity between both provinces. The promotion of Punjabi culture was further highlighted by the ruler Maharaja Ranjit Singh and after that generous contributor Dyal Singh Majitha and Gnaga Ram worked for the welfare in the period of pre-partition. After independence Fakhar Zaman as a chairperson of World Punjabi Congress worked for the promotion of Punjabiat in the country. NGOS with the name of Lok Sagat and Sachet Kitab Ghar further promoted the Punjabi scripts through seminars and their publications.

A smooth transition form the cultural homogeneity to the economic ground in between the West and East Punjab can be superbly identified in Miani’s book, as he after defining the strong common heritage comes to the economic field where both side Punjab can support each other through the productivity of their agriculture. In productivity, where Pakistani Punjab is best in cotton production Indian Punjab is ahead in other crops. The reasons of low production in both Punjabs are almost the same. In this regard Writer gave some recommendation to overcome the issue of production through well networking, efficient marketing system, Joint India–Pakistan Basmati Patent project, through cooperative system of Canal irrigation and last but not least through more flexible and trust worthy attitude towards not only each other but towards the other countries effort who are the part of South Asia. In this regard Miani pin point the other fields of cooperation to ensure further development in the region generally and in Punjab of both sides particularly. He very rationally consider governments, professional, common citizens, public opinion, efficient communication system, business endeavors, funding and the religious harmony as the tools of diplomacy for both Punjabs to make them close.

Miani, at the end of this book give some suggestions for the improvement of relations not only between both Punjabs but also among the South Asian countries. he recommended, free movement of people through making the visa process easy, opening up of trade routes, modernized structure of trade, improved communication facilities on national level, formation of a joint trade office at Wagah, setting up of a joint Punjab of Commerce at Wagah and politically the welcoming attitude of all countries of region towards each other.

Nonetheless, through a ground breaking research work the author visualized the vigorous picture of future in his imagination through the trust worthy cooperation and hard work among South Asian countries, which would ultimately not only boost the economic and socio-political development in both Punjabs but finally would contribute in to the development of this region.

Post-Election Scenario of Pakistani Politics by Zamurrad Awan and Yawar Hayat Shah

2008-06-13T05:29:00.000-07:00

Post-Election Scenario of Pakistani Politics

The result of polls held on February 18, 2008, has spoken unambiguously the will of the people of Pakistan, in favor of two main stream parties the Pakistan Muslim League and the Pakistan Peoples Party. Theses two parties cherished majority votes in National Assembly as well as in four provincial assemblies. The mainstream parties, PPP and PML (N) along with Pakistan National Alliance joined their hands for a new coalition government. No doubt these parties have their own agendas and manifestos but they united on a single platform in the interest of the whole nation. In the politics of reconciliation for the broader interest of the country, the MQM was also requested to work as coalition partner in the new set up, which was after few deliberations was to be accepted despite of the past rivalries between the PPP and MQM as there is no permanent friend and foe in politics.

The unexpected results of these elections further veil out the fake policies of previous government who left the sever challenges for the new government. The consequences of these policies came out in the form of inflation, whole day black out, suicide bombing, cut back on jobs and last but not the least a national staple from the market. Along with these problems, the demand by ‘pro-active’ lawyers for restoration of judiciary further confronted the situation. The prevailed unrest in country immediately demanded from a democratically elected government with the smooth transfer of power and, no doubt the winning parties tried to make a new set up accordingly. However, the reconciliatory approach of winning parties could not come out with the expected results and the unpleasant events kept on diverting the attentions of new government along with the public. The most objectionable event was the harassment of prominent members of Pakistani Muslim League (Q), former Chief Minister Sindh, Mr Ghulam Arbab Raheem in the Sindh Assembly session, when an angry mob of activists encircled him and hurled abuses on him. Meanwhile one man hit Arbab’s face with a shoe where as other workers did try to hit him with fists and shoes. Similarly, Former Minister of Parliamentary affairs Dr Sher Afgan Niazi was swooped down by the mob apparently showing themselves lawyers, when he was brought out of his advocate office under the secuity of police to rescue. The series of such events was an organized afford from the people who wanted to snuff out democracy.

The former government left the Pakistan’s economy in a quagmire. The socio-economic condition of Pakistan is becoming intense day by day; therefore the state appears rudderless, even in the presence of two major political parties together with their allies in government. From its day first the new government is handicapped by the lawyers’ movement for restoration of judges. The PML (N) included in its manifesto for elections, the restoration of judges the key point, however, thought PPP was in favor of independent judiciary but they did not make any commitment to the people regarding this issue. It’s an ultimate reality that both parties are agreed on the restoration of judges however, the difference is just only on the method of re-instatement of judges. PPP wants a restoration through a constitutional package, conversely PML(N) want the restoration of judiciary first without the compulsion of constitutional package at the same time. Consequently, the most awaited talks between the head of ruling parties ended up on a sad note on 12th May, when PML(N) head Nawaz Sharif decided to quit from the Federal cabinet as he could make his promise to restore judges in the confined time period. While talking to the Press conference, he said that his party would not become a part of any conspiracy against the democratic government and would not strengthen the President Musharraf camp. He further insisted that his party is still in coalition with PPP and would support the government according to the Charter of Democracy.

To get rid of all evils of the former government, newly elected Prime Minster Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani declared a 100 days package after getting the unanimous vote of confidence from the National Assembly. The judicial crisis has crippled the whole governmental machinery. Lawyers have become a pressure group. They have become an obstacle on the way of resolution of other issues which are directly related to the common masses. The restoration of judiciary is a constitutional matter and it will be resolved constitutionally. As Co-chairperson of PPP Asif Ali Zardari has stated that he would not amend an illegal act by another illegal step. PML (N) and lawyers’ community should wait for some time for the restoration of the judiciary. Now lawyers have called for the Long March. That will be the first step of agitation against the newly born government. Though it’s their democratic right but matters should be resolved amicably. On the other hand there is no clear demarcation of powers and authority between the President and the Prime Minister. According to the 1973 constitution, the form of government is parliamentary, however, the tempering with the constitution by the presidency along with his ally parties, the presidential system is working in the country. Where all the powers reside in the office of president, who has already generated strained relations among the institutions. There is no system of checks and balances; consequently, the political system of Pakistan lacks the doctrine of separation of powers. Due to this deficiency the political system is in mayhem. Therefore, the public have serious resentment against the president Musharaff, who despite of the defeat of his ally party PML (Q) in general elections, is not ready to resign.

While keeping in view socio-political vulnerability along with economic deficits of the country, now people are desirous to hear the debate of Finance Minister while presenting the annual budget for the fiscal year of 2008-09. There is a ray of hope; people think that they will get some relief in the upcoming budget as government is saying again and again that next budget will be the people friendly budget. At this point of time people are more concerned about the wheat crisis, energy shortage, increasing inflation and unemployment. The people of Pakistan are desperate and hopeless because of the situation emerging in the country. This situation is resulted in frustration among youth who are the real builders of future. After passing a long journey of education they can not get suitable jobs according to their academic qualifications. Whole system is victim of the corruption, nepotism, red tapism and bribery. Many qualified but poor youngsters have been deprived from their right to job, as the jobs are given to the sons, nephews and relatives of the powerful people. The current situation of Pakistan is same as Thomas Hobbes’ state of nature. Where people were living under the principle of ‘Might is Right’ and there was a ‘perpetual war of everyone against everyone’. The need of hour seeks serious action to tackle immediate issues, which the country is facing. Though the institutional independence is significantly an important demand to deal with, however, there are so many other issues related to the common man of the country, which should be resolve first.

Zamurrad Awan & Yawar Hayat Shah
e.mail:zamurredawan@yahoo.com

Dismembered Coalition Reveals the Truth by Yawar Hayat Shah & Zamurrad Awan

2008-05-13T13:47:00.000-07:00

Dismembered Coalition Reveals the Truth

The most awaited talks between the head of ruling parties finally ended up on a sad note, as it was feared by a number political pundits that the honeymoon between Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and Pakistan Muslin League- Nawaz(PML-N)or, more specifically, between Asif Ali Zardari and Nawaz Sharif will not last. Since the government formation has completed, the judicial crisis was seeking an immediate resolution, though the other issues remained a matter of serious concern for the newly elected government.

The coalition government promised the nation in the ‘Bhurban Declaration’ that judicial crisis will be solved within thirty days of the creation of the government. Thirty of the April was set as the deadline for the restoration of the judiciary as it was on November 2, 2007. Due to some complexities it would not be happened on the April 30, 2008 and the new deadline was announced in Dubai Talks by both parties that was May 12, 2008.

Last fifteen days made an environment of the country more suspicious as the PPP and PML (N) hold discussions for hours together to sort out a way, but both parties told the media that they had failed to bridge differences over the route to take for the reinstatement of the deposed judges. Leadership of both parties was there in London to hold talks on the issue. Despite the last minute intervention of the US Assistant Secretary of State Richard Boucher, London Talks collapsed.

Finally 12th May proved itself a decisive one and PML leaders reached back to Pakistan. After having long meetings with the headship of Pakistan People Party in London, Pakistan Muslim League (N) decided to quit from the federal cabinet. Nawaz sharif while talking with media that his party will not become a part of any conspiracy against the democratic government and will not strengthened the President Musharraf camp. He told the media that his party will sit on the treasury benches and will support the government according to the Charter of Democracy.

On the other hand, Co-chairman of PPP Asif Ali Zaradari has requested to Nawaz Sharif through a phone call and requested to hold his decision of resignation from the Federal Government till his return from London. He also has announced that the portfolios of the PML (N) ministers will be kept vacant and no candidate will contest against Nawaz Sharif in by-poll. He advised the Prime Mininster Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani not to accept the resignation of PML (N) ministers. He is confident that the PML ( N) would return to the fold of the coalition soon.

PPP’s stance is that an illegal and unconstitutional action cannot be undo by taking equally illegal and unconstitutional step. This domino effect will cause the fall of whole administrative system of the state. Party is reiterating that judiciary will be restored through a resolution in parliament along with a constitutional package that wil ensure the supremacy and independence of the judiciary. PML (N) stressed government that it should announce the reinstatement of deposed judges through an executive order.

So it can be analyzed that the differences between the two parties were over the modalities and not on the objective of the restoration of the judiciary. As both parties are still emphasizing that judiciary will be restored as it was promised with the masses of Pakistan,

At this point in time, media is playing a role of catalyst, different news channels are telecasting diverse version of news. Every channel is interpreting the issue in its own way to create more ambiguity among the masses. Some News channels had telecasted the news that Nawaz Sharif has declared the end of coalition. In reality he did not talk about the break up of the coalition. In the time of this kind of deadlock media should not play irresponsible role to create a state of disappointment among people. Both leaders have political heads and knew the hopes and aspiration of the people of the land. They are taking steps like shrewd politicians and playing their card tactically. As PPP’s Co-Chairman declared that PPP will continue the support of PML (N) government in Punjab. Therefore, it can be judged that coalition has not come to its end. In fact, the both ruling parties are not in the position to quit the alliance, which is pertinent to sustain democracy in the country.

Yawar Hayat Shah

Zamurrad Awan

A Blur Statement of Election Commission on delaying by-polls

2008-05-05T23:21:00.000-07:00

A Blur Statement of Election Commission on delaying by-polls

Suddenly, a suspected environment took place in the country over the postponement of by-polls in the country on 5th May. The plea presented by Election Commission, under taking such step was “deteriorating law and order situation”, which was undoubtedly an irrational statement according to the current security situation. It was an abrupt decision with out taking the ruling elite in to the confidence, therefore it provoked they democratic process once again in the country.

The quick reaction was seen by Pakistan Peoples Party, Pakistan Muslim League (N) and the coalition partners, who consider it a conspiracy against the new government under the order of presidency. These by-elections were of great significant as the important leaders like Mr. Shehbaz Sharif, Capatin Safdar from PML(N) whereas An important figure Barrister Aitezaz Ahsan and the co-chairman of PPP Mr Asif Ali Zardari was going to take part. These figures since the election commenced on 18th February are keeping on condemning the presidency. Resultantly, in make the Musharff’s restless as he is no more considered to be fit in this office. However, its important to note that ‘The Wall Street Journal’ reported on Monday that Musharraf seeks a deal with PPP to secure his position as he isn’t agree to quit his powers as president of the state. Conversely, he is worried about the restoration f judges, who ready after the re-instatement to ditch his rule

In this situation, its not easy for government to take the decision on the restoration of judges, on the other hand, they don’t have any other way to move without full-filling their promise as the expectations of the people of Pakistan are high enough. Therefore, it seems as the ruling parties are trying to find the middle way to secure both ends though the Musharff is keep on derailing the democratic system by planning intrigues against the new set-up. The situation could only be improved if Musharff accepts his defeat open heartedly as he has plundered the country by all means.

Shehzadi Zamurrad Awan

zamurredawan@yahoo.com

Politicize Justice by Shehzadi Zamurrad Awan

2008-05-05T15:04:00.000-07:00

Politicize Justice

The election of 18th February did not only decide the real will of the people of Pakistan but also gave a great sense of responsibility to the new government. The main alliance parties in government, Pakistan Peoples Party and Pakistan Muslim League (N), soon after the election results focused on the issue resolving strategy with the help of consensus building among the power sharing parties. The first issue which was acknowledged to be the most important one among all powers sharing powers was the restoration of Justice by re-instatement of all judges. After this, it was expected that the lawyers’ movement would exclude the element of violence from their struggle. However, the immediate events after the making of new government proved this expectation a fake one.

To re-instate the judges on the position of 9th March is not an easy task as it apparently perceives, especially when the government is bound to work with an un-constitutional man in the form of president. Though, judiciary being a separate institution has its sanctity which could only be maintained after the re-instatement of judges, however, for the smooth change, its important to give the government proper time to resolve this issue without emphasizing on the particular ultimatums.

The incident with former Minister for Law and Parliamentary affairs Dr Sher Afgan Niazi on 8th April in Lahore was an effort to defame the lawyers’ movement and lot of deliberations took place by the lawyers. However, the reverse action was seen in Karachi, in which eleven people were killed, at least six of them feared to be lawyers, and several others injured when violence broke on the clash between two groups of lawyers outside the City. These two events significantly affected the lawyers’ movement. Mr.Aitezaz Ahzan, the president Supreme Court, continuously kept on identifying some hidden hands that are doing intrigues against the lawyers’ movement.

The incident on 5th March in Rawalpindi Bar is an important one, where Aitezaz Ahsan was going to address about his contest in by-polls from NA-55; suddenly a fight had started between the two groups of lawyers. However, it was controlled by the senior lawyers. But again when Mr Aitezaz started his speech again, a lawyer used an abusive language against one of the correspondent of TV channel, which disturbed the whole gathering. Therefore, Media boycotted the conference; however it was patched up after a while.

Justice is not a matter of once own choice. It’s the universal phenomenon which should not be used for the personal benefit of any person or party. To keep the lawyers struggle alive, it’s important, not to politicize it. Otherwise it would loose its real objective and the struggle for the restoration of judges would be derailed.

Zamurrad Awan
zamurredawan@yahoo.com

Law of Necessity & the Constitution of Pakistan

2008-04-29T05:51:00.001-07:00

Law of Necessity & the Constitution of Pakistan

Constitution is a legal document, which undoubtedly provides a guideline to run the country affairs. Therefore the constitution is considered to be a supreme document. Its respect and sanctity is binding on every individual in the country. Unfortunately, in Pakistan it’s the most vulnerably handled document. It has been tempered many times under the catchphrase of necessity by the ruling elite.

On April 21, Supreme Court of Pakistan scrapped the condition of graduation which was imposed by perviaz Musharaf in 2002. The reason coded behind this action was that this condition is repugnant to the fundamental rights mentioned in 1973 constitution. However, on July 11, 2002, a five member bench of Supreme Court had upheld the graduation condition for legislators on a petition moved by the PMLQ.

From 2002 to 2008, the period of 6 years couldn't compensate the legality of this law and no one pointed out its confrontation with the fundamental principle mentioned in the constitution. As the matter of fact, in 2002 Musharaff used this order to keep some individuals out of the Parliament with out keeping in view its compatibility with the constitution. Now when the 2008 elections are over, government has been formed and only bi-polls are left, this condition has been lifted up by the Supreme Court. It should be done before the election 2008, so that the maximum people could get the benefit out of it. But now it would facilitate few important individuals who are going to file their nomination papers for bi-polls.

Pakistan is passing through its sensitive phase of its history. All decisions are under the spot light of media. Consequently, the people of Pakistan are vigilant enough to judge the political scenario. It’s the time for government to come out the influence of necessity law. It’s important on the part of law making bodies to discuss the policies and laws to avoid any ambiguity. It’s only the way to attain the general acceptability of any decision among the people.

Shehzadi Zamurrad Awan
zamurredawan@yahoo.com

"Violence: A Hidden hand" written by by Zamurrad Awan

2008-04-16T07:10:00.000-07:00

Violence: A Hidden hand

The act of violence started from the incidents of humiliation with Mr Arbab Raheem and Dr Sher Afghan. Soon after it the horrific events spread in Karachi and then in Multan. It’s hard to accept it as a co-incident when the reasons are not enough to make such happenings. There are many speculations about the force behind these sinful acts. Though it’s hard to point out but still the rumors are in their go.

First Mr Arbab Rahemm was beaten by some apparently PPPP activists and after 2 days Dr Sher Afghan was harassed by the lawyers who were not actually identified as lawyers. The wounds of these events could even heal when on 9th April in Karachi violence erupted consequently five people burnt beyond recognition were among seven persons who lost their lives. Many buses and vehicles were burnt off in the incident.

Another event happened on 14th April in Multan which is a hometown of Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gillani, where riots erupted when thousands of workers of local powerloom industry staged a demonstration against WAPDA for its failure to stop frequent load shading. The demonstrators attacked on offices, vehicles and bank buildings. It’s really some thing fishy to see the load shading in all over the country but the violence erupted in the town of PM only. It definitely makes the linkages between the above mentioned events.
The country is passing through its sensitive phase as the real sense of democracy is in its process of attainment. First the government should inquire all these incidents in less time and they should punish them before the media so that people could know the real faces behind these shameful incidents.

However there are some powers who want to derail the democratic structures because they didn’t accept the mandate of people whole heartedly. Therefore to destabilize the new government they are keep on doing intrigues. To avoid the further incidents it’s quite important to restore the real democracy by fulfilling the promises on the part of wining parties so that the common man could rehabilitate his trust in democratic system. However it’s the time for Mushraff to accept his defeat through political forces with the back up of public demand therefore he should actually think to quit now.

Zamurrad Awan

zamurredawan@yahoo.com

PPPP vs MQM: The politics of Alliance is the need of time

2008-04-16T01:19:00.000-07:00

PPPP vs MQM: The politics of Alliance is the need of time

Moving towards the politics of reconciliation is a new trend in Pakistani politics where the history witnesses the politics of revenge. Since the election results have been declared the major political parties Pakistan Peoples party and Pakistan Muslim Leagues stresses upon the policy of cooperation among political forces though it’s not an easy task to cling with however it could be only the way to survive in current circumstances.

PPPP, PML (N) and ANP joined there hands and with the processes of dialogue Muthida Qaumi Movement also agreed to sit with government in the national interest of Pakistan. To make them on table, Mr Zardari himself went to nine-zero in Karachi where he met with the important figures of MQM. No doubt he received warm welcome from MQM Consequently the differences were erased.

However after the violent move in Karachi on 9th April suddenly the strategy of MQM has changed although they were facing a pressure from opposition parties before. Therefore finally MQM decided to sit in opposition benches in National Assembly as well as in Sindh Assembly. Dr Farooq Sattar blamed the PPPP responsible for this dead lock in talks between two parties.

The first reason is that, MQM leadership thinks that PPP made an earnest effort to engage Mutahida. Therefore the same gestures were not made at their visit in Naudero which MQM made at Zardari’s arrival at nine-zaro.

The second reason is MQM have reservations on the appointment of Shoaib Suddle as the Inspector-General of the Sindh Police. Suddle is controversial figure as Mutahida bale him for the murders of activists carried out allegedly by the Sindh police in the mid-1990 when he was a DIG Karachi. However PPP-SB also condemned Suddle appointment as he was one of the accused in the murder trial of Murtaza Bhutto and six other men.

The third reason is that the MQM demand for a power-sharing accord based on the number of seats won by the parties involved which was remained unmet.

What ever are the reasons behind this deadlock but it will definitely effect the political environment of reconciliation. It can also strengthen the powers who want to derail the democratic process in Pakistan. The need of time is to engage all the political forces in to the political process by ignoring differences as it’s the only way of survival for democracy in the presence of immediate issues. The dialogue process should start again which should be above the personal interests.

Zamurrad Awan

zamurredawan@yahoo.com

Musharraf : trying to hang out with power

2008-04-09T23:56:00.001-07:00

political alliances vs conspiracies

2008-04-09T23:56:00.000-07:00

Karachi at fire, where not a sinlge leaf can move without one force

2008-04-09T23:40:00.000-07:00

Intrigues against Democracy

2008-04-09T06:07:00.000-07:00

Intrigues against Democracy

“Politics is a bloody game.” A common statement really has its strong message and the events of this week prove it exact. The shameful incident with Ghulam Arbab Rarhim in Sindh Assembly on 7th April was highly condemned by all political parties. The incident happened when Mr Ghulam Arbab was going out of the Assembly and an angry mob of activists encircled him and hurled abuses on him. Meanwhile one man hit Arbab’s face with a shoe where as other workers did try to hit him with fists and shoes. The security persons encircled him and took him to his car. The angry mob didn’t leave him yet and attacked to his car and broke its window glasses.

In response, MQM and PML(Q) threw up the responsibility of this incident on PPPP as the slogans were Pro-Bhutto however an immediate press statement from Bilawal House denied any link with the event by saying it a plot against PPP which involves PPP (Shaheed Bhutoo) workers.
The second incident happened with former Minister for Law and Parliamentary affairs Dr Sher Afgan Niazi when he was on a visit to Malik Noor Ahmad Awan, an advocate, to discuss his election petition and hundreds of lawyers converged there and kept waiting four hours for the former minister to come out. The lawyers were demanding to meet Mr Afghan as they were having eggs and shoes in their hands to throw.

When the situation went out of control, Lahore police Chief Malik Iqbal requested Chaudhary Aitezaz Ahsan to reach so that Mr Niazi could be rescue. Mr Aitezaz reached to the place and requested lawyers to disperse peacefully which couldn’t make any effect on the mob. As soon as Mr Niazi was brought out mob swooped down on him from all directions. They seized him by the collar and dragged him in to the vehicle. They thrashed him with fists and kicks and repeatedly were punching him after broking the windows of the Eidhi Ambulance in which he was being bored by Police officers and Aitezaz Ahasan. To see the violent mob Aitezaz climbed over the ambulance and requested them to leave it consequently he was rescued.

The event once again strained the environment of country, especially when the session of Punjab Assembly was going to be assembled next day. After the event Mr Ahsan called a press conference in which he highly condemned the incident and decided to resign from his office of President of the Supreme Court Bar Association after failing in his effort to persuade lawyers to allow Dr Niazi a safe passage.

These two shameful events have some similarities which leave some clue to reach the actual culprits. The first is that the security lapses definitely played their visible role in both objectionable occurrences. Mr Aitezaz told the press conference that he again and again asked officers to call more police but they didn’t pay heed on his request as the mob was extremely violent and the number of police officers was not sufficient enough to control them. And when with the great effort Mr Niazi was bored in an ambulance, the driver of was not there to drive which showed some pre-planned conspiracy behind this whole event. The same security lapses were identified in the event with Dr Arbab, when the administration and police allowed everyone to enter in assembly by issuing them passes without investigation.

The second similarity is that the two personalities which were targeted formally belonged to PPPP before their inclusion in PML(Q), so that the direction of this conspiracy could go to the ruling party PPPP. However the PPPP is continuously working on the policy of reconciliation since the results of election are declared. The co-chairman Mr zardari is continuously trying to make all political parties unit in the democratic process and at this point of time he himself cant afford any such incident.

The third similarity is that when these incidents happened the administrative control was under the caretaker government who was actually responsible to ensure security measures in both provinces, so the ultimate credit of both event go to them.

Another important factor cant be ignore that the environment of political reconciliation which emerged after the elections was totally negating the role PML(Q) in the form of opposition party which made them insecure about their status in new government. It can be possible and they maneuver these incidents to create chaos in country so that they could oppose the ruling parties on these grounds as after elections Shiekh Rasheed gave a statement that now the bloody politics would take place in Pakistan. Unconsciously he revealed the conspirators of these events in his statement.

The intrigues to sabotage the democratic process are active however the people of Pakistan are in quest of peace and progress in country. These incidents are defaming Pakistan on international level beside those who have the opinion that “democracy doesn’t suits to Pakistan.” The new government requires being vigilant enough to smell all conspiracies so that the heavy damages could be avoided.

However the situation demands from Pervaiz Musharraf to resign who didn’t even give a single statement on these incidents, therefore people of Pakistan are becoming violent to see him out of the scene so that bloody politics could end up. This situation could get a better turn only in the absence of Musharaff, who is continuously backing the conspirators in politics to derail the democratic process.

Zamurrad Awan
zamurredawan@yahoo.com

FATA: A sensitive region to deal with by Shehzadi Zamurrad Awan

2008-04-03T02:36:00.000-07:00

FATA: A sensitive Region to deal with

The Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) considers as a sensitive areas of Pakistan because of its religious extremism. This region comprises of 27,220 km with the population of 3,341,070 people according to the data collected in 2000 which is the 2% of Pakistan’s population. The area comprises on Seven Agencies, namely Khyber, Kurram, Bajaur, Mohmand, Orakzi, North and West area of Waziristan.

The geographical location of FATA is significantly important as it bordered by Afghanistan to the west, North-West Frontier Province, the Punjab to the east, and Balouchistan to the south. In past the people of this area were used by US against the Soviet Union in Afghanistan with Taliban (Organization of Afghanistan) and were well motivated under the concept of Jihad. The religious constrains hovered over the minds of people of this area consequently they started rebellious movements in the region.

Though the region is controlled by the central government of Pakistan but the main administrative body remained Pashtun tribes in this region. The strength of the tribal system even in the colonial age couldn’t let the Britishers rule over the region. As a result they made Frontier Crime Regulation in this area. Unfortunately after independence this area remained a neglected one and no government tried to declare the old laws of colonial rule null and void. Though the people of this area even not in favor of FCR and they demand for the equal rights as the people of 4 provinces are getting being the citizens of Pakistan.

The decision of new government to revoke FCR is daunting measure though this decision contains lot of risks in itself. Although the final decision would be taken through the parliament but it would be vigilant if the government acquires some changes rather then immediately finishing it. Otherwise it could cause the chaos in the area. Secondly the area has been neglected over the 60 years, it desperately need the developmental programs.

The Prim Minister Makhdoom Youaf Raza Gillani definitely throw light on the policy of new government regarding this area by keeping in mind the role of Pakistan in War against terrorism. He while understanding the sentiments of the people of this area decided to deal with the situation vigilantly. Therefore he asserted “I appeal to all the people to shun violence and join us in the journey of democracy. We are ready to talk to all those who will give up their weapons and opt for peace.” He acknowledged the need of socio-economic reforms in the area so that poverty and illiteracy could be removing to avoid social ills which are breeding the terrorism. Simultaneously, US is continuously blaming at the area to support Talibanisation which is a permanent threat to the world security paradigm therefore they considered theses people “irreconcilable militants” to which no talk is required. However the government policy regarding the problem is having its worth.

Another important step the government is needed to stop cross border infiltration by closing it borders so that this area could get rid of the influence of Taliban in Afghanistan. Right now the area demands for the sense of security from inner so that the out threats could be avoided. Therefore all the decisions with the consensus of people and all political alliances are required in near future.

Shehzadi Zamurrad Awan
zamurredawan@yahoo.com

US Reservation to the New Government of Pakistan

2008-03-29T02:29:00.000-07:00

US Reservation to the New Government of Pakistan

The scenerio of Pakistani politics has changed over the sudden visit of US Deputy Secretary of State John Negroponte and Assistant Secretary of State Richard Boucher with his diplomatic corps to Pakistan.

They met with President Pervez Musharraf, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani, National Assembly Speaker Dr Fehmida Mirza, PPP Co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari, PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif and Army Chief Gen Ashfaq Pervez Kayani and discussed various issues. This visit of US officials definitely creates suspicions regarding their discussion to all political forces of Pakistan as the country is passing through the sensitive phase of its political history.

Thought the US officials are now and then commencing their good will to the new government in the country but still in post their violent intervention in the state affairs dose not favor their statements. The analysts are stressing upon the two dimensions of their visit to Pakistan at this point of time.

The first one is that they want to make there reservations clear on war against terrorism to the new government. Conversely the government is looking forward all the decisions through debate. Negroponte while expressing his views negates the Pakistani government will to holding a talk with extremists as he considers them “irreconcilable” militants who are not worthy to be talk with. It’s a clear fact that every country has its own ground realities and without listening to the view point of others you can not reach to the conclusion so it would be better for the government now to take independent policy regarding its role though it remained a front line state in war against terrorism. The meetings of US officials with the coalition partners of government conveys the message that now the decision would take place from the flour of parliament which is the supreme authority of state.

The second dimension of there visit is a shelter to Presidency as Mr Musharaff remained very useful to US policies in past though US officials rejected this view by saying “it’s the part of political process in Pakistan and US will respect whatever would be decided about the former Army General.” They expressed that we are here just to congratulate the new government in Pakistan and we reaffirms or friendship and support to them.

The official statements of US officials seem fishy as it didn’t happen in past. The visit of US diplomat immediately after the oath taking ceremony does not appear a coincident. It shows that the new Assembly is not just having challenges inside the country but definitely having lot of pressure from out side on various issues of their concern.

Its really a time to take vigilant decision as the Assembly is under a spot light and its all conduct are deeply monitored by the people of Pakistan who gave the government a heavy mandate and also by the international players who wanted to attain their own particular interests in our country.

Shehzadi Zamurrad Awan
zamurredawan@yahoo.com

2008-03-24T11:12:00.000-07:00

The stunning gestures of New Prime-Minister

Makhdoom Yousaf Raza Gillani, who was named as the candidate of the PPP-led coalition of election won with 264 votes in Assembly where as the candidate of joint opposition Chaudhary Pervaiz Illahi got 42 votes only. That’s was undoubtedly a memorable movement in the history of Pakistan.

The stunning movement didn’t only remind the PPP workers the glimpses of Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto in the parliament but also ensure a new start to the people of Pakistan who are seeking a new and prosperous country in future. In this regard, the first address of Mr. Gillani being a prime Minister of Pakistan highlighted the agendas of government policies where he talk about the resolution of the hot issue of Pakistan “restoration of Judiciary”. He promptly ordered to make all the judges free from consequently the bars were removed from the premises of judges colony. Along t\with this he cleared the policy of his party (PPP) who has decided to ask UN for the investigation of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto.
In his address,Mr Gillani called himself “servant of the people” rather then a ruler. He vowed to the people of Pakistan that the new government will solve all the issues with the consensus of all parties. The prime responsibility of the newly elected government is the restoration of 1973 constitution so that the supremacy of parliament can be restore. While addressing to the Assembly he requested the Judges movement to stop protesting and if they have any reservations regarding their status then they should make it to the notice of Parliament which is a supreme authority of the country.

the first address of Mr Gillani definitely a healthy attempt of a democratic government. However the coalition government is seeking the resignation of Mr Musharaff whose ally party has been totally rejected by the People of Pakistan. It is an open question of debate that the policies which the elected government through the parliament is having on agenda are expected to have a confrontation with the presidency. To avoid this situation of conflict its better for Mr Musharaff to resign and submit his will to the new government his game is over now and the ball is out of his code.

Shehzadi Zamurrad Awan

zamurredawan@yahoo.com

2008-03-24T08:41:00.000-07:00

Asif Ali Zardari: A Shrewd Politician

The Co-Charmain of Pakistan Peoples Party and the husband of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Mr Asif Ali Zardari is proving himself as a profound and vigorous politician which is definitely his new look to the people who known him as a “Mr 10 percent”. The death of Benazir Bhutto definitely make Mr Zardari more conscious and alert then past where he was entrenched in various corruption charges. As for as his new look is concerned, he is giving a glimpse of a real politician with the qualities of openness flexibility and persuasiveness. The current policy of PPPP no doubt is making a smooth path for the upcoming leader of the house who can not only face all the challenges but could also play his role of cooperation among all the alliances in parliament. The countdown for the post of Prime minister has been begun. The people of Pakistan and the Media are very keen to know the official decision of PPPP for its candidate of PM. In this regard Mr Zardi is at his best. He is arranging his meetings not with the alliance of PPPP but the parties of opposition too that shows his mature politics. He has opened his doors for negotiation to all parties. Recently he talked to MQM learder Iltaf Hussain, consequently Dr Farooq Satar of MQM, who was a candidate for the post of PM from combined opposition his name in favour of PPPP and assured the peoples party for the MQM support. Farooq Sattar allegedly expressed his views that MQM is ready to play its positive role either the government PPPP wants them on opposition benches or to be an ally in the government making process we have opened our doors for cooperation. Such type of friendly statements will definitely strengthen the democratic values in the country. Although there are the rumors of confrontation over the nomination of candidate for the leader of house in PPPP as the party is facing a leadership vacuum after the sudden death of Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. Right now the four senior members of Pakistan Peoples Party are running in the race of candidature. One is Makhdoom Yousaf Raza Gillani, second one is Ahmed Mukhtar, third one is Shah Mehmood Qurasehi and the forth one is Makhdoom Ameen Faheem. It’s not at all an easy task to select one out of these senior and important members of party. The party under the guidance of Mr Zardari is trying to reach the decision under which the party can be united at the same time they could get a candidate who can run the affairs efficiently with the party Alliance in the Assembly. The responsibility is very sensitive for the co-chairman of PPPP as he has shown full honestly and consciousness for his all decisions up to now. The important thing is the consensus of this part for the nomination of candidature so that the government can deals with the real challenges of its time

Shehzadi Zamurrad Awan
e.mail: zamurredawan@yahoo.com

2008-03-24T08:31:00.000-07:00

Challenges of New Assembly in Pakistan

The first session of the 13th National Assembly of Pakistan was chaired by the outgoing Speaker, Chaudhary Ameer Hussain.
In future, this assembly will be grappling with various issues, created by the previous government in their 8 years rule, and further intensified by the caretaker government, which went away from its basic responsibility.
This parliament is a mixture of industrialists, landed Aristocracy along with manynew faces. Consequently the Assembly is a good and healthy combination of seasoned politicians along with young incumbents. The parliament started with a positive mood as for the first time the traditional opponents join hands for the collective purposes. In the past they were bitterly opposed to each other on almost every issue.
The first challenge to this newly elected legislature is the restoration of judiciary, which was the slogan of various Political parties, especially PML(N). This movement activated the whole country towards the change. Both PPPP and PML(N)being the important parties agreed to restore the judiciary. According to critics it seems an immediate point of confrontation between the presidency and the parliament. The rest of the challenges include the energy crisis, wheat shortage, and high oil prices. The price hike has totally disturbed the life of a common man. Apart from these challenges, the law and order situation is further creating chaos in the form of suicide bombing in different parts of the country.
Time will tell that how the dictatorial mood of presidency cope with the democratic trend in the parliament. These problems will definitely give a tough time to the government.In this regard the president should resign and let the new parliament elect a new head of the State. So that the country could be saved from internal and external threats.

Zamurrad Awan
zamurredawan@yahoo.com