The Hazara community has been targeted second time in few weeks, the heinous attack killed 90 members of the tribe, and as a result tens of thousands of people have been protesting across the country. The tribe has yet again shown its trust in army; the protestors demand to call in army in Quetta. Even the strategy to implement Governor’s rule remained ineffective and couldn’t stop a big terrorist activity to take place. Since 2002, more than 50,000 Pakistanis have been killed in such attacks. The terrorists are targeting Pakistanis since many years and by killing Hazara community people, the propaganda is definitely to divide the Pakistani society.
Most of the political parties prevented military to operate freely in Quetta but it is an unfortunate fact that the government has failed in combating terrorism. In Pakistan the debate of counterterrorism always remained focused to operations in tribal region and TTP. The attention should have been paid to other militant groups, as lately Lashkar-e-Jhangvi claimed responsibility for the attack and remained active against Shias.
The Hazara community should be appreciated for behaving prudently in understanding the lethal action and propaganda of hostile elements. They have called army but the government should be forced to take such steps because it is government’s responsibility to find the most appropriate and timely solution for the issue. Politicians should not turn opportunist to exploit this critical moment for their own political motives. The best counterterrorism strategy would be a balanced blend of intelligence, law enforcement and military.
The Supreme Court took suo motu notice but mere notice is not going to be enough; terrorists should be hanged. Pakistanis should raise voice to detain terrorists but sectarian mobilisation should not be promoted. Terrorists are our common enemy and they are above and beyond any sect and religion.
ASHA KHAN
Islamabad
