Surge in sectarian killings in Balochistan and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) is seriously denting the atmosphere of sectarian harmony that traditionally prevailed within the country. Tension in Baluchistan and GB is persisting and isolated incidents of violence by the members of both the sects are continuing unabated. It appears that governmental institutions are numb and absolutely incapable of addressing the situation. If this indifferent attitude continues on the part of the government, sectarian strife can prove to be a harbinger to a bigger crisis. Muharram is about two months away and can provide the needed opportunity to those who want to further aggravate law and order situation in the country spearheaded by sectarian mayhem.
At this critical juncture of history Pakistan is confronted with a number of internal and external threats. Addition of sectarian dimension will further complicate the situation. Moreover, once viewed in the backdrop of prevalent geo-political situation of the region, increase in sectarian killings is not without design. The crisis potentially can be enlarged and amplified if continued during Muharram. If unchecked, persistent sectarian rift can swirled into anarchy like situation threatening the very existence of the country. This looming threat can easily be countered by gearing-up governmental machinery to check hate mongers and through positive role-playing by the religious leaders of both the sects. I will urge both to take appropriate measures to check this nuisance. Religious leaders can play a predominant role by educated people on tolerance and by highlighting that the outside powers may be using Pakistan as a turf for fighting their ideological wars by promoting sectarian and extremist organizations and by providing them with funds and weapons to fight their proxy wars in Pakistan. Their words can unite the nation under the flag of Pakistan and prove invaluable in foiling the nefarious designs of our enemies.
GULZAMAN
Rawalpindi
