Neglecting democratic institutions only weakens democracy
Things that arouse little curiosity when looked at individually may assume grave implications when seen as a gestalt. The Afghan President’s visit to the GHQ was followed by that of Secretary of State Kerry. The DG ISI paid a second visit to Kabul to meet the Afghan President and the COAS has left for UK to meet Britain’s civil and military leadership. Each one of these developments can be explained in the light of the crucial role the military has acquired in the war against terrorism. Looked at as a whole, they give birth to the question whether the civilian administration is playing only a subsidiary role in the fight against the terrorists.
No government likes to lose its turf. But in case it neglects to do its homework, other forces are likely to step in. The government wasted months in fruitless talks when it should have launched an operation against the terrorists. On Tuesday the SC ordered the federal government to ensure that the draft of the proposed Hindu Marriage Registration Bill was laid before the Cabinet for final approval in two weeks. The apex court was forced to issue the order because the government had as usual delayed the decision too long.
The government continues to neglect Parliament despite the institution having provided timely sustenance to it in September last year. By doing this the government weakens itself. On Friday, it failed to maintain quorum in the National Assembly sitting which led to a premature adjournment of the House. On Monday, most of the question hour was deferred for late evening because of the absence of several lawmakers and ministers concerned. On Tuesday, Leader of the Opposition lodged a strong protest against the continuous absence of the ministers. He maintained that the neglect of the Parliament by the ruling party strengthens the tendency to take the unresolved issues to the streets. What is more, Parliament’s failure to undertake crucial legislation provides a reason to other institutions to move in.
Now, where are those supreme supporters of democracy, constitution & Parliament, whose members care a hoot to attend the august house. It is now proved, that these lawmakers only attend when their existence is threatened by dharnas…otherwise, tell me who cares ?
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