The unfortunate 16/12 has taught me a few lessons:
First: We must talk straight. Stop beating about the bush. Say what we want to say, no rigmarole. This applies to all and everybody, especially media and politicians.
Second: The govt must establish a centralised databank to collect all available facts about incidents and perpetrators of terrorism during certain period: name, age, nationality, ethnicity, educational background, modus operandi, sectarian association, linguistic ability, motivation, educational background, family status, madrassah affiliation, weapons used, foreign support, financing etc. We may call it a think tank. It should collate all the data, study it and come up with its findings and solutions.
Third: It is no secret that some mosques under their imams have become hubs for spreading hate and jingoism. To curb it, a detailed form should be drafted and the imams should be asked to fill it. It would contain complete narration about their identity, family background etc. It should be so designed as to ask some probing questions about their values and belief systems.
Fourth: All khutbas (sermons) should be recorded.
Fifth: Use of loudspeakers must be, by law limited to aazan and khutbas.
Sixth: No political party must be allowed to carry nomenclature of religious party. To call some as religious parties is to insinuate others as anti religion or non religious. This classification must go officially and must not be used by media.
Seventh: The title maulana must not be used routinely for every Tom, Dick and Harry. It is a title of respect and reverence. It means ‘my master’. I would hate to call people I dislike or disagree with as my masters. Media should especially take care of it.
Eighth: Blasphemy law should be so amended as to eliminate its misuse. Clauses should be incorporated that prescribe similar punishment for false accusations, also for taking any action by the accuser himself in the matter other than lodging report with appropriate forums.
Ninth: Afghan refugees who are living in the country illegally must be sent back forthwith.
Tenth and most important lesson is that these and other actions that are required to be taken to eliminate terrorism and extremism are so radical, so drastic that in our highly polarised society it is next to impossible for a political government to implement these, howsoever well meaning it may be. Therefore the conclusion is inescapable that defence establishment must be brought on board and entrusted the job. It may not necessarily be an extra-constitutional act. The constitution does provide arrangements to cope with emergency situations. However, if need be, necessary amendments must be made in the constitution. The job has got to be done, come what may.
AQUEEL AHMED
Karachi