An enhanced and effective police and armed force is the first step that Pakistan needs to take in order to correct its security wrongs. The fact that a similar approach has been adopted for conducting operations against the militants needs reassessment. Apparently, the geo-strategic importance of every region varies and ought to be kept under consideration prior to any planning. Thus, every area needs to be handled with a different hand.
The success in Swat and SWA does not, however, guarantee a similar outcome in NWA. The ethnographic details, culture and customs of the people are totally in variance with that of other regions. Swat, a beautiful scenic region with a developed tourism industry had proved to be very tolerant towards outsiders. The fact can be highlighted by the full support the people had extended towards the security forces. Internally displaced people from Swat had displayed utmost forbearance, thus showing their serene and tolerant nature.
Therefore, prior to launching an offensive, the security forces and Pakistani authorities need to devise a strategy that will be effective without damaging the local culture and pride of the people. With their heightened warring streak and independent nature, having remained untouched by colonialism, a large population is still inclined towards Pakistani interests.
Based on the fact that Pakistan wants lasting peace within its borders, an effective strategy needs to be formulated. The military offensive should be followed by a political process and a separate peace process in order to consolidate the gains in this situation. Lessons need to be learnt from previous endeavours before jumping into new ones.
UMAR QAYYUM
Lahore
