Social Media Turned Into A Rumour Factory

                        Social Media Turned Into A Rumour Factory

I find it hilarious and amusing when different set of people on Social and Electronic medium criticise the recently launched Youth Business Loan Scheme, different set of people are coming up with different logic's and interpretation of the scheme without knowing the benefits and drawbacks of the scheme. Few days back wrote a blog on the loan scheme, must admit received a thunderous response but at the same time had to deal with unprecedented criticism from different quarters on Social Medium which actually surprised me and left me hurt. When I dug deep and checked the profiles of few criticizing, found  that most of them were sitting in cosy lounges of their homes in London, Dubai. Baltimore, Manchester, Abu Dhabi and list goes on but very few from Pakistan. Strangely enough those sitting in Pakistan were very reasonable in their argument and very polite as well but some how those sitting abroad were annoyed and very aggressive. ( May be unhappy because they couldn't get such an opportunity?? ).

Strange Questions are being raised regarding this scheme in Social and Electronic media, for Example 1) A Leading TV anchor asked how on earth Government shall arrange 100 billion rupees while country is going through economic crisis ??. Government planning to print new notes giving rise to already inflated inflation figures ??. 2)  A seasoned TV anchor declared it a violation of provincial autonomy ? 3) A leading news channel ran the story how come Government shall distribute 100 billion loans while allocating just five billion for the scheme ??. 4) Social Media became a rumour factory declaring it a political scheme? a scheme to oblige politically associated aides?, the ruling party trying to get political benefit?, why on earth "Maryam Nawaz Sharif" is heading the Loan Scheme?. 5) A Very mature writer and anchor raised the question who can  start a business with few lacs ?? Similarly Imran Khan called it a pre-poll rigging before the local bodies election ?? 6) Social Media was bombarded with rumours that Government is going to waste 500 billion rupees in coming 5 years, the youth has been made hostage  by giving them loans with 8% interest ??. What if business failed ?? What guarantees are there that people getting the Loans will utilise the loans for business purposes ??.

                                                         Hilarious Rumour's on SM

Now lets us dissect the queries one by one. 1) The answer to first Question is very simple that National Bank and Women Bank are going to give these loans (100 billion) with Government providing the additional mark up which is 5 billion rupees for the year 2013-14, already has been allocated in this fiscal year budget.  Government is neither going to borrow any money from banks either Government is going to print new notes for this purpose. 2)  This question literally laughed me off my chair, how can a loan scheme  endanger the Provincial Autonomy particularly after the 18th amendment where Provinces have been given the additional resources. If any of the province want to start it's loan scheme they can easily use their funds because after 18th amendment ample funds are at their disposal. In fact Punjab is already running many such schemes own their own, like Laptop , Ujala, Student Endowment Fund, Internship Program etc. Similarly KPK has recently introduced such kind of schemes in their province. 3)  As I have already mentioned that 5 billion is the additional markup that Government is going to pay while the rest 8%  shall be paid by the recipient of the Loan. 4) Now this is a very legitimate concern, scheme should be free from corruption and nepotism, loans should be dispersed across the board. Let me tell you with continuous surveillance of Independent Media its look highly impossible that we shall witness any major scandal or corruption charges. Secondly Banks are already enforcing stringent measures to implement this scheme, some very tough lines have been drawn if you closely monitor the criteria involved to get the loan. Finally State Bank will be acting as a watchdog to whole process of awarding the Loans. 5) Very Legitimate Question regarding Maryam Nawaz Sharif heading the whole scheme ?. I think the answer to this is very simple that it will take time for our political culture to grow, when we will be educated and cultured enough to trust the system and get out of this personality cult. Politicians do try to take the credit of Public welfare schemes as Obama took the credit of much trumpeted "Obama Health Care", Gandhi Family tried to take advantage of "Food Stamp Scheme"  launched recently. Still I do feel it would have served PMLN better if an independent head would have been appointed while Maryam Bibi still being the Co Chairman of the scheme. Having said all this, the way Maryam Nawaz Sharif working on this scheme is unprecedented I must admit, going through thousands of queries every day, visiting banks, responding to queries on Social Medium. This scheme may prove beginning of a new era for MaryamNS. Finally she publicly declared she wouldn't be taking any perks and privileges attached to the job, so it must be carefully monitored if she stick to her stance. 6) "Grameen Bank" a brain child of Dr Younis who went on to win the Nobel Peace Award and later awarded  USA  Congressional Gold Medal. Dr Younis started the idea by lending 27 US Dollar to a group of villagers in 1974 which went very well. Later he initiated a research program and started the Bengali Micro finance revolution. Similarly Dr Amjad Saqib started a micro finance scheme in southern Punjab with small loans of 25,000 rupees which received an unprecedented success, people now quote Dr Amjad Saqib wisdom and honesty at different forums. Punjab Government was so  impressed by Dr's wizardry that they asked him to run their schemes. The interesting fact about the above mentioned schemes is that there are hardly any defaulters. Similarly UK student Loan Scheme, US student and micro finance schemes, in fact these small loan scheme are beginning to become the backbone of economies. 7) For politicians criticising these schemes must be very  careful indeed as  we have already seen in May GE that people don't like criticism of Public welfare schemes, in fact appreciate that rulers are spending their money on their welfare as we  have witnessed in case of Metro Bus, Dannish Schools, Laptop Scheme etc. Intense criticism and opposition to these schemes backfired and resulted in their defeat . 8) Finally the rumours that 500 billion rupees is going to be lost in this scheme are unfounded and amateurish, as I have explained earlier the recovery of these loans runs in high 90's Worldwide. Secondly even if Government distributes 500 billion of Loans in next 5 years that hardly equals to 10% of banks lending. Government protecting the banks risk as well ( 5% ), those who think that this scheme is a joy ride they can easily get the loans and can do anything with the money without being asked many question should revisit their thoughts. Serious thought process has been involved in awarding of these loans, even more stringent measures are being involved to make proper utilisation of this money, finally the involvement of guarantor almost neutralises the banks risk.

Lets not politicise this scheme as already 3 million youth have acquired the forms, I am sure they know the stringent criteria attached to the scheme, I am damn sure all will not belong to the ruling party but what we can do is act as a watchdog, point out the smallest of the mistake committed by the Government, held them accountable if anything goes wrong. Big bulge of youth population is being given a  hope for their future, million families are pinning their hopes on this scheme, lets not criticise or politicise the future of millions on unfounded doubts.

PM Youth Progam: A Game Changer May Be?

                           PM Youth Program: May Be A Game Changer ?

Pakistan is going through worst ever economic crisis in it's 65 years of existence which infact is becoming an existential threat for the country, lawlessness, rampage corruption and job drought is making the lives of middle class families in particular, a living hell. I remain a strong critic of Benazir Income Support Fund which has actually turned this country into a bunch of beggars, with zero job creation and easy money pouring into families, infact not helping them in the long run rather is making them susceptible and vulnerable in an environment of cut throat competition.

PMLN as promised by their leader in his pre-election rallies has come up with a comprehensive plan for the skilled youth, low income groups, students education, Youth training program's etc. But I am more interested in "Business Loans", Qarz-e-Hasna Scheme", "Reimbursement Of Fee For Students".

In a country where hundreds of thousand  people  have become jobless in last 5-6 years, skilled youth with degrees have got no job opportunities it scares the hell out of me that in a country with huge bulk of young population ( 65% ), regrettably have nothing to do, it terrorise me even further when I see my country in chaos and in grip of repeated terrorist strikes. In this  era of mayhem and disarray this scheme seems to be breath of fresh air if you analyse it closely, more importantly if implemented honestly without political interference and merit is the kingpin while awarding these loans. 

Now let me explain, why I think this Youth Program can turn out to be a "game changer" if implemented honestly?. A   grace period of one year , 8% mark up on the loan, 6-7 years of payback period, if you count in inflation numbers, this loan scheme becomes a joy ride for the skilled youth, may turn them into a successful entrepreneurs in coming years. Now the real catch in these scheme is Government shell pay the additional mark up for the approved loan while the Banks first time in history of Pakistan shall invest on skilled youth rather on businessmen, politicians, feudal, Army backed ventures, real state tycoon's etc., meaning if we multiply the real numbers that runs into hundreds of billions. "Now this is totally unprecedented, never witnessed in history of Pakistan, only thing Government must be careful because State Bank shell be protecting the Banks investment so Government must make this scheme transparent and merit must be the driving force while awarding these loans".

Business Loans  will start with Rs. 5 billion this year, an  average of 1.25 million loan for the successful candidate. A staggering amount of Rs. 125 billion  has been allocated this year alone for the adept youth with Government paying  Rs. 5 billion in mark up to the banks, while 8% mark up will be borne by the youth, first year 100k skilled youth will get the Loans while if we go by these standards 500k in next five years, mind boggling 625 billion rupees shall be pumped into the economy, more importantly on efficient and able part of our society. Even if a eligible loan candidate hires two persons on average to run his business that becomes 200k new jobs a year and stupendous one million numbers in five years. Now even if we go by average size of a Pakistani family, a usual Pakistani household consists of 5 members, now you pick up your calculators, start multiplying  these numbers.

 Imagine a young doctor, pharmacist, engineer, a software genius, young entrepreneur with out of the world idea etc getting this loan at the very start of his carrier, establishes a small business in the beginning, we may witness a big change in coming years and decades, may revitalise the small to medium businesses in the country, importantly will pump hundreds of billion rupees into the ailing economy. 

Similarly Qarz-e- Husna Scheme for the poorest of the poor in the society, in fact this idea has already been successfully implemented by "Akhuat Foundation" by amazing "Dr Amjad Saqib" and carried forward by Punjab Government under the guidance of Dr Sahib under the banner of "Punjab Education Endowment Fund", you people will be astonished to know that the recovery of loans is close to 99% . This scheme shall cover startling 2.5 to 5 million people in the coming five years, 3.5 billion have been allocated for the scheme, multiply  with the households you will be amazed to see the number. 

Finally, the reimbursement scheme of student fee, for those students studying in HEC recognised public institutions doing their Masters and PhD, will cover 30,000 students yearly, Rs. 1.2 billion have been allocated annually. Deserving students studying in Public Universities and belonging to backward areas of the country given the priority. 

Hope Sanity Prevails

                                               Hope Sanity Prevails? 

 Last few days, Pakistan is going through a turmoil after TTP head has been killed by a US Drone strike, from the very onset let me be very categorical I am a stern opposer of the Drone strikes, but that doesn't change factual ground realities. Since this Government has taken over, they were very candid and clear headed that they want to give peace a chance, very openly stated their policy of Peace talks with the Banned Outfit TTP. Both KPK Government and Federal Government announced to live in peace and negotiate with TTP. APC was called, all parties gave a  mandate to Government to negotiate with the banned outfit, Ch Nisar took the most difficult job, it looks he did his home work and worked tirelessly to bring TTP to the table, until that Drone strike killing TTP head and few other senior TTP commanders, leading to unprecedented outrage and mourning among different political forces, terming this as the murder of peace talks, few called the mass murderer TTP head a Martyr, few asked to block the NATO supplies and if necessary shoot down the drone. For Heavens sake, stop calling these mass murderers as martyrs, stop treating them a hero, you have no idea how the friends and closed ones of those martyrs will be feeling who lost their life's in this War waged on us by these Sons Of The Soil!!

Ch Nisar was very conclusive in his press talks and NA session speech that USA is the one who sabotaged these peace efforts for which he worked tirelessly. He went on to disclose that he requested US authorities for no Drone strikes during these peace talks, he further elaborated that in return US answer was that only key targets shall be taken out if we get the chance, ironically Hakim Ullah was included in that list. Now Question arises why Ch Nisar did not convey this to TTP head ??. Secondly a man with a head money of five Cores from Pakistan authorities and fifty million US dollars from Americans, why on earth Ch Nisar didn't remove that bounty from Hakim's head? Did he honestly believed that US authorities will spare the man involved in many strikes against US forces, the famous one,  where he masterminded the attack on CIA compound in Afghanistan and failed "Times Square" bombing. Now lets admit and give credit to Ch Nisar, he was making an honest effort to restore peace in Pakistan, there is no denying the fact we are in a deep shit hole, without any comprehensive policy for last decade or so, a dictator blindly jumped into this War on Terror to legitimise his ill-legitimate rule without comprehending the repercussion's on Pakistan, ignoring the fact this battlefield would be fought in our backyard. 

If Ch Nisar was not enough, Imran Khan came up with his presser, asking Federal Government to block NATO supplies, shoot down the drones if necessary. To Imran's credit he too is sticking to his narrative of War On Terror for almost a decade. Let me bring Khan Sahib a reality check and deep hole we are stuck in. If you all remember we had similar sort of APC just before Swat Operation, literally bowed down to every demand the TTP Swat chapter made. Now Question is, did they stop or gained more time to strengthen themselves and even went on to plan an assault on "Islamabad The Capitol" for further glory, then the Government realised that they have made a mistake. Do Khan Sahib realise that after this APC how many life's have been lost ??. Many groups have taken credit, videos are being released, attacks have been declared according to "Sharia" ??. Now Question arises why they are not stopping while Government of Pakistan is all out for peace talks or let me rephrase begging for peace talks, even knowing the fact that these Drones are controlled by USA not by Pakistani Agencies, recent reports clearly suggest Hakim's Drone strike may have been tipped by insider not by Pakistani Intel, why they are so upset when we are not after losing hundreds of life's, even martyrdom of a 'General' couldn't shake our resolve in peace talks ??.

By asking to stop NATO supply, Imran Khan equating Hakim Ullah Mehsud death with Salala Check post martyrs which is completely unfair and uncalled for. Secondly why you want to stop NATO supply while US and ally forces already have announced withdrawal ??. Let them go then we have all the time in the World for peace negotiations. 

While stopping NATO supplies we are inviting huge economic crises, our economy is already in worst shape of our  65 years existence, dependent on International Donor Organisations. It's very simple to say that we should reject 1.5 billion dollar US Aid, completely ignoring the fact that our major trade partner is US and NATO countries ??. Just recently EU has given Pakistan textile a preferential status, moving ahead with giving GPS + status meaning zero rated textile exports, few countries including Bangladesh have got that status and they have almost knocked out Pakistan and Chinese textiles. US is involved in many energy projects, ready to assist in big dams, just recently Pakistan PM went there with hand full of economic demands, asked Trade not Aid from the Americans. We must not forget that our foreign loans were rescheduled after entering into this war on terror, 20 plus billion dollars were given by US alone, allowed preferential environment for trade, billions of dollars FDI poured in, 6-7% growth rate achieved, its not US fault we wasted the opportunity, didn't construct infrastructure like China or India are doing, didn't built water reservoirs, big energy projects, wasted all the money on consumer economy. Then came Zardari sahib, got 17-18 billion dollar foreign reserves and just 6-7 trillion rupees debt, wasted everything in corruption and nepotism !!! 

To be fair to Pakistan Government they got a bankrupted economy, left with few choices, USA wouldn't stop its drone strikes as they didn't stop after Salala stand off unless we convince the TTP to disown the foreign elements, stop meddling in Afghan affairs, stop harbouring foreign elements attacking US armed forces in Afghanistan or we ourselves eliminate these groups. Just recently "Amnesty International" report on one hand condemns US Drone strike while in the same breath exposes our weakness by declaring that Pakistan was unable to stop cross border terrorist activities, our land becoming safe heaven for major terrorist groups and individuals. "Hope Sanity Prevails", we will burn every option, do not make hasty decisions, Imran Khan and Ch Nisar's recent NA speeches have given hope that  everything is not lost we may convince USA and TTP on some basic fundamentals, hope these peace efforts will bring peace but we must prepare ourselves for all adversaries as Imran Khan said "What If Operation Fails", My Question is "What if Peace Talks fail" As these Failed In Swat"??. Similar goes for Mian Nawaz Sharif, very rightly diagnosed the problem when he said "We Need To Clean Our House First Before Pointing Finger's At Other's". Pakistan been the victim of this terrorism but failed to sell its innocence and barbaric assault we faced, unfortunately most wanted terrorist arrested, killed or Droned in our backyard!

Finally some serious Question's must be asked from our Agencies, why on earth they stopped after carrying out successful Swat operation, why didn't they eliminated these Banned Out-Fits when they had the chance??, Are they ready to accept Afghanistan a separate state?, Are we ready to quit our deep state doctrine?, they must be asked whether these drone strikes happening with their consent, Are we providing Intel to US for these Drone strikes as after "Raymond Davis" saga US hardly left with any ground Intel ??. "Hope Sanity Prevails" at their end as well, if they get a chance they will eliminate every one leaving their strategic depth doctrine, "Good Taliban and Bad Taliban".

Power Hikes Were Inevitable But Is There Any Hope ?

                                        Power Hikes Were Inevitable But Is There Any Hope?

Pakistan suffered unprecedented Power Shut Downs in last 6-7 years, ironically the shut downs worsened over the period, with each passing day brought more misery and distress. It did not happen over night neither it can be rectified over night, it needs a consistent and honest effort which unfortunately was missing in dictator Musharraf Era followed by more misery in democratic regime of PPP. Both made devastating decisions, both followed the same policy of 'Rental Power Plants', marred by corruption and nepotism, billions of dollars  were looted. Zardari regime came into Power with 6-8 hours of Power outages, which unfortunately worsened as days and years passed, peaked to 15-18 hours when Zardari Sahib left. Three biggest mistakes made by Zardari regime. 1) Blindly followed the Musharraf Policy of Rental Power Plants. 2) Not giving a comprehensive Power Policy. 3) Corruption was rampage and broke all records, nepotism and favouritism was promoted without realising the fall out on country's economy above all on people's life's.

Now came the PMLN with a promise of Roshan Pakistan, with a commitment to get rid of this darkness hampering growth, making life of a common citizen, a living hell, bringing the economy to a near stand still, in fact a net negative growth in last PPP tenure, almost zero job creation in five year rule, leaving a historic debt of 14.5 trillion rupees.

 

PMLN after assuming power, promised to get rid of this years long "circular debt" in 60 days, which they actually paid within promised period, a sum of 480 billion paid to Power companies. Secondly, they did give a "Power Policy" within months of assuming Power.  These two steps have done wonders, immediately reviving the image of the Pakistan among International Power Companies, opening up new horizons of Foreign Direct Investment plus bridging that trust deficit developed among these Power Producers, who threatened to invoke sovereign guarantees in fact took the Government Of Pakistan to court. International Organisations have agreed to pour in funds in different Hydro Projects, Independent Power Producers  have also agreed to shift their Thermal Power Plants to Coal Based Low Cost Plants, Coal Projects with the help of Multinational companies at Godani and Port Qasim are beginning to look like a reality, many other avenues have opened up like Solar Park in Behawalpur, Wind Projects in Sindh etc. Paying this circular debt has immediately subsided Power Crisis, Load Shedding has been brought down to 6-7 hours in fact on Eid Holidays there was almost no Load Shedding or Minimum in few areas. Experts believe that Power crisis has cost this country 1-1.5% of GDP growth yearly, that is equivalent to 1000 billion rupees annually, Now just imagine the impact of reduced power shortages. Adding to this tally, imagine the number of jobs that will be created once medium to small industry are switched on after years of shut down, just on this EID we witnessed a historic Economic activity, 228 billion worth Animals slaughtered across Pakistan, 31% increase from previous year, 10 billion rupees hides bought by leather industry alone.

Now there is a huge resentment, anger among different political parties and masses on recent Power Hikes by PMLN Government. Raising rates for different slabs, but not touching the 68% of population that is using below 200 units, raising minimum rates for next slabs using 20% of electricity that is 200-300 units, yes the most effected ones are the rest 12%. These power hikes increased strategically in winter to minimise the backlash of public, which seemingly working and people adjusting to new reality. Now Question arises, Is There Any Hope After Recent Power Hikes?

 1) PMLN paid the circular debt of 480 billion rupees, if you wouldn't hike the rate this will accumulate in a year and half, because in last decade or so we have made mess of our energy mix, from 70-30 mix in hydro favour we have reversed the trend in last decade, now average cost of a unit is 16-17 rupees. 12 rupee cost, 2 rupee administrative cost add 2-3 rupees line losses to it. PPP made a grave mistake by not rationalising the tariff, secondly not bringing down the line losses that led to their down fall. PMLN doing both the things, a country wide crack down on Power Thief's, putting pressure on respective Provincial Government's with highest line losses like Pesco, Hesco, Qesco, KESC etc. That doesn't mean there is no theft in Punjab, only difference, in Punjab consumer has to pay for the theft while in other Provinces the State bear the brunt. 2) PMLN making head ways in changing that energy mix initiating work on many low cost energy projects, focusing on alternate energy projects like Godani Power Corridor, Solar Parks, Basha and Dhaso Dams, Wind Energy, Terbela Extension, expediting work on Nelum Jehlam and Nandi Pur Power projects, Chasma 3 & 4,  2100 MW Nuclear Power Plants in Karachi, revamping Jamshoro Power Projects, Guddu Power plant 765 MW, Independent Power Producers converting 3000 MW Power houses to Coal etc. 3) PMLN paid this circular debt by printing new notes which already have crossed 550 billion rupees in PMLN 120 days in office bringing a tsunami of inflation,  it will be catastrophic to print such an amount in 1.5  year down the line. Just imagine PPP government giving staggering 1400 billion rupees in subsidy during their tenure without discriminating between elite, powerful, poor and crushed ones,  it's not a rocket science to assume who benefited the most. On top of that a 200 billion theft yearly, highest line losses in Pakistan's 65 year history, Grand total is 2400 billion rupees, imagine with this much money two large dams can be built, can make all our miseries go away in a blink of an eye if this money would have been utilised sensibly. 4) Nawaz Regime has formulated a comprehensive Power Policy to tackle this menace, may prove a game changer, this needs to be implemented in letter and spirit, Provincial Government's are to be held accountable as proposed in this Policy, stringent anti-theft laws, prioritising the Gas allocation to efficient plants, eliminating unjust subsidies given to different Industries while allocating gas quota's are the salient features of this power policy.

Next 2-3 years will define the path set by this Government, solving this puzzle of power crisis can actually lead to make or break of this Government, if Nawaz Regime is able to change the energy mix in next 36-48 months hence brings the tariff down, if Nawaz Regime is able to curtail the depressingly high Line Losses which ironically are highest in the region, if Nawaz Regime is able to revamp the ailing and decaying Power Infrastructure, placing honest and able Chief Executive assisted by truthful BOG, only then the people of Pakistan will be satisfied. I think next election will be fought on two points, "Energy and Terrorism", merciless and heartless accountability awaits this regime in 2018 so they better be ready for it.

Malala Yousaf Zai: The Heroine

   

                                               Malala Yousaf Zai: The Heroine

The whole Nation went into shock and mourning on hearing the heart wrenching news of 15 year old Malala YousafZai being shot by TTP at point blank range. According to eye witnesses two young boys stopped the school vain, one talked to the driver while the other rushed into back of the vain, asked one Question, "WHO IS Malala", shot the young lady from point blank range, three bullets were fired, one hitting Malala while two hit her friends. She and her friends were rushed to nearby Mingora Hospital. The news spread like wild fire in the country, everyone felt the pain of the horrifying event. Early reports suggested that there was little hope that brave girl will survive the trauma.

 Question must be asked what on earth happened in last one year that  Malala from a Pakistani Sweat Heart turned into a villain for many Pakistanis, what  had she  done to earn such an hatred among different sections of life. I still remember before that incident she used to appear in many talk shows, was treated as a celebrity and role model for the youth, a voice that had the courage to stand against mighty Taliban. Was very vocal for Women rights and their education, remained on Media Fore front during the successful Swat operation,  she appeared in many talk shows and celebrated the victory with armed forces and every citizen of Pakistan. She was passionate and hopeful that finally her home would get rid of terrorist, she and other girls could move freely and get education.

She was made controversial even before she was shot but nobody cared because everyone considered her the voice against oppressive regime of Taliban. Her pictures with Foreign Ambassadors floated in Social Media, she was termed as the conspirator and tool in foreign hands (NGOs) working against her own Nation. The day she was shot the whole Nation was in mourning, the day she was transported to England for specialised treatment, Rehabilitation and Cranial Reconstructive Surgery, the conspirator started spilling the beans, terming Malala a foreign agent, even few declared her injury as fake, the Social Media was flooded with different kind of pictures and conspiracy theories regarding her injury.

Now let us weave the whole story thread by thread and different stories sold in the market by conspirators. Without wasting any time let me assure that Malala Yousaf Zai was shot at point blank range, with entry wound just on top of left eye, grazing the brain, damaging the left ear and reaching left shoulder. So all that saved Malala Yousaf Zai was a miracle ( God's Help ) plus bullet sparing the brain by one-two inches. Below is the image from Malala Skull showing the entry point and exit point.

Now credit must be given to the Team of Doctors in Pakistan, who carried out the initial surgery, skillfully  restructuring the severely damaged facial nerve, removing the bullet, which  proved life saving in the end, in fact Malala's Doctor in UK was very categorical  about  the initial handling of Malala in Pakistan as the main reason of her survival, from Mingora to Swat to Peshawar to Rawalpindi, everything was done methodically, professionally and skillfully. We all can see the visible tilt to her facial gesture because of that damaged facial nerve which was  very masterly reconstructed even UK Doctors were very impressed by the skill and technique of Pakistani Neuro Surgeons. She was send to UK because Pakistan lacked the facility for the rehabilitation and Cranial Reconstructive Surgery. She remained in Birmingham hospital for three months, where a "Titanium Skull"  and "Ear Implant" was placed. She lost her hearing  but fortunately she will be able to hear from her left ear within a year or so Inshallah. Below is the 3D image of the Titanium  and Ear Implant. Hopefully this debate will end here and all the pictures circulating in the Social Media will be removed immediately.

Secondly, argument raised against the child that she is a foreign agent playing in their Master's hands to fulfil their hidden agenda and malign her own country. For God Sake she was  fifteen year old when she was shot, she is now sixteen, how on earth, a girl so young,  can hatch such plots against her own country, yes her handler's may have their motives but how on earth this makes the little Doll the Traitor ??. All  she  talks, is Education for Children and  women, Even during her address in Untied Nations she begged  to stop this War, give books and pen in the hands of Young Children instead of Guns and Bombs.  Many of us have raised objections, why Malala has been given so much coverage in international Media why she was given such importance and hype ??. Let me tell you, a girl surviving a point blank range bullet shot, a girl daring a mindset,  automatically becomes important and special for Western countries, which nobody could imagine in those areas, on top of that  their help saved the girl's life what's the big issue  ? does that equate her to a traitor. Finally, many question, why she has been given so many awards, she never deserved , Abdul Sattar Eidi and Arfa Karim deserve more. The answer is simple, who is stopping you people, give them as many awards as you want, Eidi Sahib has done amazing service to this Nation, Arfa was a childhood genius, but they were Pakistani Hero's as Malala  but Malala has got International dimension attached to her that is "War On Terror" plus she was fortunate enough to have a second life and flown to UK for specialised treatment.

Having said all, let me put some Question's to you people, 1) why can't we accept the fact that a fifteen year old girl defying all the odds had challenged the Mindset while we all in our domains failed to do that, she  was living in Swat,  area captured by Taliban but  she resisted and raised her voice for women education, stayed there despite numerous threats to her life ??. 2) She stayed back, once Operation was complete in Swat Vally despite having easy option to study in any school in the country, in fact the best one but she preferred her hometown ??. 3) Is this Malala's fault that she was shot from a point blank range while she was threatened several time's, is this Malala's fault that our Law Enforcement Agencies failed to protect her ??. 4) Is this Malala's fault that she couldn't be treated in Pakistan because we lack the facility of  specialised treatment ??. 5) Is this Malala's fault that we can't protect her  if she decides to come home, we all know what happened to Mohtrama Benazir Bhutto, two time Prime Minister when she came ????.

Yes her only fault was that she dared a particular mindset, she fought for her rights, she raised her voice for other women's rights. Let's accept it gracefully we were sitting in our cosy lounges when that brave girl dared the Taliban, when nobody else in their wildest dreams could have thought so. Let's accept, she has given hope, not only to thousands of women and children in her area but she is a phenomenon around the Globe. Tell me how many of us would have thought a Young Pakistani addressing the United Nation's and the World Leaders listening to her, the Whole World coming to a stand still while she was addressing, Let's be honest how many of us would have thought that her book "I AM Malala" on her release will immediately become a best seller, How many of us thought that a Young Pakistani will be nominated for "Nobel's" a  very strong contender. Malala has only brought joy and laurels to this Nation, I don't care who is handling her what are their motive's and  what they are trying to achieve, all I care is, that Malala has given me a hope, an ambition that anything is possible and can be achieved , if you believe in yourself.

Nawaz's Promised Glory Still A Distant Dream

                        Nawaz's Promised Glory Still A Distant Dream

11th May 2013 promised a rising of  new Dawn, when people of Pakistan against all odds and predictions gave a clear mandate to Nawaz Sharif PMLN, may be last five years of Zardari regime made them politically mature, Nawaz Sharif's  asked people repeatedly in  Public outings to give him a clear mandate and finally Shahbaz Sharif track record in Governing Punjab proved to be a trump card. Sharif brothers solemn promise and undertaking to the people of Pakistan that they will bring change in their life's through economic reforms and Institution building. The masses responded to their commitment and has given them simple majority despite " Tsunami onslaught" by Imran Khan PTI who gave PMLN run for their money and in many constituencies ran neck to neck in their stronghold Punjab.

Not taking anything away from PMLN they started off pretty well, set some high standards when they let PTI form Government in KPK,  Nationalists were allowed to form Government in Baluchistan, did a monumental job by paying years long Circular Debt of 480 billion rupees which reduced the power crisis from 12-18 hours to 6-8 hours on average, giving "Energy Policy" first of its kind which restored investor confidence in power sector leading to energy contracts and light at the end of the tunnel that  this Jenny shall be locked in a bottle once for all in 3-4 years with cheap electricity . Railway  has started to show some promise as well where a very competent Minister Khwaja Saad Rafique is doing a fine job. Many dubious deals done by previous regime have been cancelled saving billions, corrupt officers  have been held accountable and honest officers given responsibilities at key posts. The best thing done by this regime, is  to run a corruption free Government, hardly any case of major corruption has surfaced, Prime Minister has taken note of few surfacing in Media, massive cut in Governments non-developmental expenditures etc. Recently announced youth package by PM is  notable step to empower youth, 125 billion, 1-1.2 million rupees to individual applicant. Loans to 100 thousand skilled youth can be a game changer, different from BISF, it will create job opportunities as well, this scheme needs to be carefully monitored and should be free of political interference.

 Major effort and steps have been taken to restore peace in Karachi, comprehensive dialogue with all stake holders while cabinet meeting was held in Karachi, key decisions  were taken with all parties on board,  rangers have been given unprecedented powers approved by Cabinet to control heinous crimes. Interior Ministry  is taking close view on day to day Law and Order situation in Karachi,  visible change has been seen in Karachi target killings and marked reduction in Bhatta cases but lot needs to be done with continuous and consistent effort .

Having said all,  many may think , being skeptical and naive still not satisfied with all these efforts but let me be very clear and categorical, these steps hardly matter in civilised World but to us Pakistanis these things matter a lot. Let me be very honest, Mian Nawaz Sharif promised a sea saw change in his pre-election campaign, a team promised to be the best in the history of Pakistan, full of economic wizardry and experience. He on numerous occasions talked about his 100 day plan and visible change in decaying Public entities, structural reforms in  Government owned cooperation's draining close to 500 billion rupees tax payers hard earned money yearly, he used to call them "White Elephants". Promised appointment of honest heads assisted by committed and honest BOG. Government tried to revamp PIA through several appointments but  political appointments and politically aligned aides were preferred  violating Supreme Judgement. Though these decisions were taken back once Supreme Court intervened but Question arises why on earth you make such blunders ??. A wave against Bijli and Gas Chor across the country under a very honest and up right FIA official which  have paid rich dividends but again no effort has been made to restructure these organizations, no strike down on all the corrupt officers who promoted these corrupt practices,  have become millionaire ??.

Can you imagine a civilised country running without Heads of many institutions like Nab ( 400 billion rupee cases pending ), Chief Election Commissioner, PTA head ( appointed few days back on SC orders), Steal Mill etc etc. long list, though Government has hired a renowned International Firm to scrutinise all these postings but still Nab Chief and Election Commissioner have nothing to do with that, Constitutional posts immediately need to be filled with sincere and competent individual. Key posts of Ambassadors in UK and USA have fallen vacant, while USA has announced a with drawl from Afghanistan, end Game in War on Terror but we are without ambassadors. Key Ministries stand vacant, "Law Ministry", defence Ministry and Foreign Ministry are held by PM himself, may be due to his fears of nineties but again Pakistan is fighting major insurgencies in Fata and Baluchistan, decision to launch major operations against these insurgents is eminent, we need full time Minsters at key posts though Sartaj Aziz as Prime Minister Aide in Foreign Ministry  is doing a pretty good job. Similarly Baluchistan cabinet has not  been finalised due to internal rift in PML( N ) Baluchistan. Astonishingly The Province running without a Cabinet, key administrative decisions pending without Cabinet, we are almost into fifth month of Government.

Much trumped economic managers, facing night mares, Dollar on free fall ride, fluctuating daily giving rise to speculations, inflation has started to rise again from its lowest when this Government took over it was between 6% to 8.5%, Unprecedented price hike in petrol, gas and Electricity, IMF package may have given some respite to Foreign exchange reserves plus record remittances, increase in exports and FDI improving  though latest numbers have started to dip, similarly much hyped Tax Reforms failing to add new tax payers, while Government resorting to burdening already paying taxes, tax collection hitting record low of 8.5% of GDP ( Growth of 17% in tax collection seen in First Quarter figures but again Question must be asked, does new avenues has been taped for revenue Generation ?? or already paying taxes burdened ?? ).

The biggest debacle faced by PMLN government is their failure to handle the menace of terrorism, a monster eating away life and hurting the very soul of this Nation. One dimensional approach of Peace talks alone  is not  to work at all with these terrorists. Nawaz Sharif immediately need to come up with comprehensive strategy to tackle these insurgents not willing to lay down their arms and involved in continuous attacks in Pakistan. Nawaz Sharif need to realise that people of Pakistan have trusted him as their leader, now is the time to deliver. To their credit PMLN chalked out an "Anti Terrorist Law" which if passed can be a game changer against insurgency faced by Pakistan.

All in all, PMLN Government is doing far better job than their predecessor, avoiding corruption scandals, undue wrangling with Judiciary, tackling key issue of Power Shortages, Karachi Mayhem, Proposed Anti Terror Law etc. but it is not a smooth a ride as expected , many decisions could have been avoided, many things could have been done on War footings to support these ailing institutions. Somehow we are seeing a lack of political will and indecisiveness by this Government which was not usually expected from PM who is third time in Power. Yes the challenges are monumental and humongous in nature but extraordinary times need extraordinary efforts, Leaders need to rise up to the occasion if  they want to be remembered in  History. In the end I may add, It will take at least

10-15 years to rebuild  shattered Pakistan, if we work day in  and day out. Turkey is the prime example.

Is There A Plan B ??

 

                                                         IS There A Plan B ??

There was a mayhem in Peshawar suicide bombings, a carnage and a bloodbath, that too after Government continuous efforts of peace talks. I wouldn't talk about how many Pakistanis lost their life's, how many were injured, security lapse on part of the intelligence agencies, condemnation on part of Government, political leadership, civil society, rallies across Pakistan to show solidarity with the martyrs, talk shows on different TV Channels etc because to me these things have become irrelevant, we discuss and mourn after every incidence and forget after  few days. But this incidence in Peshawar  has send shock waves across Pakistan, you can feel the palpable pulse of anger and frustration across the country, people are agitated and angered, finally we are seeing a sense of consensus evolving across the country, including political elite and different religious groups. Take these terrorist head on, either finish them or be finished, do not bleed to death.

PMLN and PTI won the May 2011 General Elections with a clear mandate given to them by the people of Pakistan to solve their decade long problems. Imran Khan clearly has run his Election campaign on the slogan of drones and ending terrorism through talks. Similarly Mian Nawaz Sharif a great advocate of peace talks with terrorists. Now what is baffling and unimaginable that the day this Government took charge both in Federal Government ( N League ) and Provinces, made it very clear that they want peace through talks, don't want any bloodshed but they are reciprocated with countless attacks inside Pakistan in fact more than 1250 people have lost their life's in different suicide or because of  other terrorist activities.

Now question arises "Is Their Any Plan B" ???

Imran Khan PTI's continuous insistence on Peace talks and Mian Sahb reluctance to deal these terrorists with iron hands has  literally shaken the confidence of many like me who trusted these parties by sending them to helm of affairs. PMLN made the right moves by calling an "APC", trying to bring all stakeholders on one page particularly Imran Khan PTI  was given the mandate by war torn KPK people, great advocate of peace talks, claims of knowing these areas better than anybody else, their traditions as well. Secondly this APC has shown Government honest intentions to negotiate with these elements who always hide behind shades of Drones and American interventions in Pakistani State affairs.

Now let me shed some light on Multi Billion rupee industry run in these areas, all the criminals from across the country involved in heinous crimes gets a safe heaven there ( Just recently target killers, bhatta khors, terrorists, kidnappers etc dodged the agencies after their operation in Karachi reached these no go areas ). Target Killing, Kidnapping for ransom ( Multi Billion Rupee Business ), Arms deals, tools of Proxy War of different intelligence agencies ( CIA, RAW, KGB, Moss ad etc ), every individual or vehicle has to pay them the Bhatta to cross the area, smuggling etc, in fact they will and can do anything for money. Now Question arises where is the ideology ?? There are dozens of groups involved in these heinous crimes, you give them the money they will do anything for you. ( recently met a Afghan Businessman, he smiled when I asked him the fate of peace talks, "Doc do you expect that "Taliban" will surrender  this power, money, influence and agree to lay down their arms, turn back to their miserable life's, take peanuts offered by Government ( Rickshaw, offer to build homes etc by Government ) if you think so, you are a fool".  This makes more sense, that thousands of criminals involved or wanted by Provincial or State agencies who are hiding in these areas would surrender, hope our Government realise the gravity and scale of the problem we are facing ??

A very idiotic logic given by few that a operation will lead to a disaster in the country, TTP will focus the settled areas of the country, do these morons realise they  are already targeting settled areas of the country, Karachi, Quetta, Peshawar etc what more they can do ?? Already hundreds of people  have lost their life's  while thousands have become handicapped, what else they can do ??. Another logic that you can not win this war, thousands will be displaced once operation starts, civilian causalities will start an uproar. Answer is very simple when Army carried the Swat operation with Government and Public backing, they were successful, in fact within months terrorists were either flushed from the area, arrested or killed. Secondly People of KPK opened their houses for these IDP's, thousands  were accommodated, Provincial Governments established camps for displaced, every possible measure was  taken to take care of them. Similarly Drone rhetoric by "Imran Khan" that they are the major reasons of terrorism fading away as well, recent report in National Assembly giving us the exact number of Civilian causalities in Drone strikes, still i do feel Pakistan need to take control of these Drones if they are inevitable in War against terrorism so this way this War On Terror can owned by us rather giving an impression that we are fighting an American Proxy War. As far as civilian causalities  are concerned I must concede this is the real soft belly which needs to  be taken care off, evaluate carefully before starting a ruthless assault plus a comprehensive plan to rehabilitate the IDP's displaced in different operations in the past. Finally another very painful and heart wrenching fact that 50 thousand plus civilian and Armed Forces personnel lost their life's in this War on Terror, while thousands were handicapped, thousands of families had financial as well as social implications, according to official data, Pakistan Economy suffered the most ( close to 100 billion dollar ).

But question arises, are these terrorists giving us any choice ?? are we left with any other option once a Dictator  has pushed us into this war ??

Key to winning Gorilla war fare is with Public support, as Vietnam and SriLanka successfully defeated their enemy, won Gorilla battles, Public opinion in their favour was key to their success. Now it needs to be seen Mian Nawaz Sharif has the will or let me put it that way courage to confront these barbarians, killing innocent civilians and waging war against our State in the name of Allah and Islam. Nawaz Sharif was clearly stunned and visibly broken with the recent happenings, clear desperation was visible during his brief conversation with the Media in UK after horrendous act of terrorism in Peshawar. Now Question must be asked of to Mian Sahib, if he has the ability or answer to this onslaught on Pakistani State by terrorist ?? Has he got any Plan B while Peace options are exhausted ??. He already has given peace a chance, did his job, made an effort to build consensus it's time to Stand as a Leader and be Counted because history remembers the brave Leaders who stood by their Nation's. Secondly he is a businessman, must realise nobody invests in war torn country, every investor wants single penny of his investment to be safe and protected. These "son's of the soil" ( TTP ) created by our agencies to give impetus to "deep state doctrine" back firing big time, these babies has turns into monsters, started eating their own children.

For Imran Khan, message is very clear, you made your point, Peace has been given a chance, still those willing to lay down their arms, surrender to writ of the State, abide to Constitution of Pakistan, can be accommodated, but those butchers taking innocent life's must be dealt ruthlessly. Imran Khan must come out of his Election rhetoric's, stand  hand in hand with Federal Government, in fact with people of Pakistan because impression is emerging in Media and amongst people that he is the real hurdle in operation after Taliban's continuous attacks on civilian and Armed Forces. His Drone rhetoric fading away as well because recent report presented in National Assembly clearly indicates the exact number of civilian causalities in Drone strikes.  Looks Imran Khan had never thought of  Plan B ??.

Shahzeb's Murder Drop Scene And Diyat Law

                      Shahzeb's Murder's Drop Scene And Diyat Law

It was cold night of 24th December, when Shahzeb was brutality gunned down in Karachi, allegedly after Shahzeb had altercation with one of the servants of  Shahrukh Jatoi, who threatened Shahzeb's sister of grave consequences. Shahrukh Jatoi along with Siraj Talpur and two other suspects chased Shahzeb's car, ruthlessly murdered him in front of many witnesses, so was the mind set and power of Feudal mentality. Shahzeb's Murder send shock waves among Human Right Organisations rather I should say it was a movement led by volunteers ( Middle Class Educated Youth ). Media played its part as well, continuously gave coverage to the whole event, Social Media was flooded with the news, volunteer's on their own created Shahzeb's pages, infect the whole Social Media was flooded with Shahzeb's picture. Every individual and political Leader rose above party affiliation and stood for a cause.

Chief Justice Iftikhar Chudhry took "Suo Moto" of the case giving it the much needed impedance and important it deserved. The case was run in ATC Sindh ( Anti Terrorist Court ). The ATC awarded Shahrukh Jatoi the main accused in the case, the Death Penalty. The other accused Siraj Talpur Capital punishment, while two other suspects were given life imprisonment. Speedy Justice was provided by courts as demanded by Civil Societies, volunteers protesting against the atrocity.

Yesterday, the case took a new turn when Shahzeb's family accepted "Diyat" and gave pardon to their son's murderers.  An ironic fact is, Shahzeb's father and Mother had  repeatedly promised  to all the volunteers ( Youth supporting the Movement ) that they wouldn't budge to any political or Social pressure from the Feudal Families of Jatoi's and Talpur's. So the anger is obvious from the young ones across the country, who for once stood against the Feudal Mind Set and challenged their might against all odds . Think about those witnesses, who stood against these land Lords despite threats of grave nature to themselves and their families.

 Now Question might be asked, were  not these witnesses  given  incentives ( Millions Of Rupees ), were their and their family lives not threatened ??. When they stood up to this challenge, why couldn't the family of Shahzeb, who's only son lost his life while protecting her sister and standing up courageously against these Land Lords brutality and mind set. Yes I agree the pressures were huge in fact I can assume in this case political and family pressure was monumental but they might have taken leaf out of volunteers and witnesses book who stood up courageously. The news, the Family accepting 350 million rupees plus Australian Nationality is even more devastating because  "Raymond Davis Saga" is still fresh in our memories where Diyat Law was used . I still remember a foreigner  quote "These Pakistanis can sell their Mothers for Money" . This whole saga has brought an utter disgrace, excruciating pain and sadness to the whole Nation, belief that you can get away with anything if you have money, resources etc. is just disgusting and painful.

Now let's talk about Diyat Law and it's history. In pre-Islamic Arab society cases of murder were usually settled by "Saar" (revenge ),  Qisaas and Diyat. Saar was the real objective of the Arabs, they believed that soul of the deceased remain in the World in some form, if revenge was not taken. It was result of these emotions that "Diyat" was considered a shameful act. These emotional challenges have nothing to do with actual concept of "Diyat". "Hence it is quite evident that Diyat is neither a monetary compensation for an economic loss nor a monetary worth of a human life. By nature it is 'Gharaamah' i.e a fine or penalty imposed on the criminal in lieu of Qisaas in case of intentional murder and in deed in all unintentional murders.

Explanation Of The Law

The injunctions related to Diyat regarding Un Intentional murders explained in 'Surah Nissa".

              "And whoever kills a believer by mistake, he must set a Muslim slave free, pay Diyat to the family of the victim, unless they forgive it. (4: 92 )

In case of Intentional murder, the quran directs us to pay 'Diyat' according to m'aroof or the General custom and tradition.

             "Then for whom there has been some remission from his brother, he should follow ( The Remission ) according to m'arrof and pay Diyat with Goodness. (2:178

It is evident from the above versus of "Surah Nisaa" and "Surah Baqarah" that in case of intentional as well as unintentional murders, Diyat should be paid according to customs and traditions of the society. Our Prophet ( pbuh ) followed these Quranic injunctions. By this Quranic directive, now,  Diyat has become the eternal Law Of the Shariah for all times for every society to follow, however its quantity, nature and other related affairs have been left to the custom and traditions of the local  society. The Diyat Law evolved from Pre-Islamic Arab era to Hazarat Mohammad (pbuh) era, has seen dramatic changes through it's course according to local customs and traditions of the society.

Important thing about the Law "the family of the victims has to give pardon to the culprits, receive Diyat according to the local customs and traditions of the society". 1) Now Question arises what if family of the victim intentionally sell the blood of the victim due to their greed ?? 2) why if The family is put under pressure by local political and social clans of the society ?? 3) Why if State is involved in influencing the Family of the victims ( Raymond Davis ) ?? 4) Why if the Culprits are very rich and influential part of our society, it will be next to impossible to punish them under current Law of Diyat ?? ( I personally have witnessed two cases in my family, when this Law was applied to get away from Murders ). These Questions will keep on haunting us, many in our society will keep on raising them unless we amend the Law to protect the poor and punish the Rich and Powerful.

ISLOO SAGA: A Harsh Reminder ?

                                       ISLOO SAGA: A Harsh Reminder ??

We all witnessed a Drama unfolded in Islamabad, when an unknown man later recognised by the name of Sikander, drove in his Black Colour Corolla with his wife and two small kids, aged between 5-6 years. Parked his car in the middle of the road ( Blue Area ), got out with two guns one each in his hands, threatening of dare consequences who so ever come close to him. Some say Isloo came to a standstill but I humbly disagree it's our country who became hostage to this Drama, while  footage's of the crime scene were shown live to the whole Nation for almost 5 hours, Prime Time show are run on all Major TV Channels by well known, honourable Anchors, till we witnessed a bizarre heroic act by "Zumard Khan", an Ex PPP MNA ended the entertainment of the whole Nation. Let's dissect what we gained or lost as a Nation from this comic yet serious episode in the heart of Pakistan.

Now let me give you the harsh reminder, while this stupidity was going on in Islamabad and was shown live for 5-6 hours literally by every Private Media House, watched as entertainment by millions  while sitting in our Cosy Lounges, at the same time Pakistan was literally drowned in Floods from KPK to Sindh, India threatening us with dare consequences of War and continuous firing across LOC, No Body cared about much hyped Law and Order situation across Pakistan, how many Karachiates lost their life's in target killings?, Terrorism which has taken thousands of life's, On International front 500 plus Egyptian lost their lives protesting against Military Coup ..... all that we cared in those 5 hours was a Lunatic Sikander, using his two little children as hostage to shield himself and prolong the inevitable that was his arrest or killing by a police sniper .

Pakistani Media indulged in a "Rat Race" of ratings and believe me they are stretching it to nuisance limits, this ISLOO SAGA is a glaring example of that rat race, I always used to give them benefit of doubt when people use to criticise that this Breaking News race is causing psychiatric fits to the Nation, I used to build an argument that Media being very young needs this kind of sensationlization to attract viewers so they can stand on their feet, they wouldn't have to be dependent on Government Ads, hence dependency on Present Day Governments will compromise their neutrality. But this is going too far, live scenes of Isloo Incidence which had no significance at all if you ask me but the way Media projected it actually turned into some kind of National Disaster or should I say Security Lapse of highest order. Every word that Lunatic Sikander spoke, every negotiation he held with security agencies, every move that he made, the cigarette  he smoked, the Red Bull  he had,  was shown live on National TV. His ID card copy, his Father Interview, infect two channels had live Telephonic Conversation with him, put forward his Charter Of Demand. When finally Police Force tried to cordon off the area, Media Persons and Police Force had a brawl. This doesn't end here, even the after the incidence, Media kept us update about the Saga, showing interviews of Sikander's friend, Father, his recovery in hospital after bullet injuries etc. Running different kind of Polls whether "Zamurd Khan" act was a Bravery or Stupidity.

Prime Time Show by major anchors explaining the lope holes after Sikander incidence, Government and State failure to protect the life's of its citizens. Major debates held on different talk shows where is the Government, where is the Interior Minister, Pakistan has become a Banana Republic etc etc .

Second Culprit in Isloo Saga surely are the security agencies, a simple incidence let me say in civilised World, made to erupt into something gigantic. They should have simply cordon off the area from the out set, no civilian and Media person would have been allowed to come close to the vehicle or area of crime scene, specialised personal to negotiate with the culprit to wear him down, talk  to him , tire him out and finally trick him to separate his children from him, from there on, all that was required a bullet in leg. But ironically all this happens in "Civilised World Dare I Say". Our Police Force has become inept and corrupted to the core they need the Heroics of untrained Civilian which could have lead to another disaster, not trained enough to handle such incidences leave terrorism alone which I think is beyond their capacity and training as well.

Ch Nisar very rightly pointed it out that it was a security lapse on two front... 1) Not cordoning of the area timely. 2) allowing a Civilian "Zamurd Khan" risking his life by going close to crime scene. ( In Civilised World The Heroics Of Zamurd Khan is Considered a Crime and could have been arrested for Interfering In Security Forces Work ). Ch Nisar made the right call by ordering Security forces not to gun down the man in front of his children, more importantly live in front of millions of viewers, making it an "International Headline". Many blamed Ch Nisar that he was not present on crime scene, he was doing nothing while chaos was rampant in Isloo, I again repeat,Ch Nisar did the right thing by not going to the crime scene and interfering in security forces work, similarly  Nabil Gabool, Zamurd Khan, Media and General Public had no right to interfere in police work. Many were complaining that at least former Interior Minister Rehman Malik used to make himself available to Media when ever such an incidence happened in the past ??. I still remember his Media Appearance after Margala Hill Plane Crash, where he claimed after the crash that two passengers have been evacuated from the crash site ( Breaking News ), his famous statements regarding Karachi Target Killings where he claimed that girl friends are behind most of the Karachi Killings (Breaking News) ??. May be we as a Nation want "Hulla Gulla" ( Fun ) ??, Or we are not tuned to solid ground work, we always have been shown crap, alien to real work ??.

1. 

The way forward, as Ch Nisar very rightly has taken the responsibility of the whole fiasco, loop holes in our Security Forces, promised dramatic change in coming months,  in his Press Talk earlier  has given the details of National Security policy.... But let me tell you it's not an easy task, it's a long and bumpy road ahead, lots of hard work, continuous effort is required to revamp crumbling Institution "Security Forces", most importantly billions and billions of rupees are required. Sometimes I feel it's unfair to compare Security Agencies of 225 billion Dollar Economy to Multi trillion dollar Western Economies !!!!.

Finally our Media needs serious reconsideration of it's priorities, an immediate "Code Of Conduct" need of the hour, a specialised training institution where the new recruits can learn before given active duties in field, Owners need to be held accountable as well, strict check and balances where the money is coming from, "Most importantly they themselves need to come forward with a strong and solid work ethics otherwise Government must intervene, establish an independent commission for Media Code Of Conduct. Every Media Anchor sitting in a cosy atmosphere with a mike and prime time at his disposal, thinks he has a right to  bare anyone. 

This type of incidence  happen almost every other day in America, even it happened last night, sometime they have to negotiate with the culprit for hours but no unconcerned man is allowed to come near him, this type of incidences can not be stopped. Our media thinks it is their sacred duty to present the culprit as a hero. Did our media had a word of praise for the security man who talked to the our deranged hero (I know that young man)?. I think our security agencies were doing the right thing to save man's wife and his children. This whole incidence has made us and our security agencies a laughing stalk in International Community, made us more vulnerable against terrorist attacks, because they know exactly what our Security Agencies capable off. ( Can't even fight in dark )

PPP And PTI: A Fight For Political Survival And Ascendancy

                           PPP And PTI: A Fight For Political Survival And Ascendancy

PMLN is off to a rollicking start in its election campaign 2013, Nawaz Sharif leading huge rallies across Pakistan, attracting humongous crowds, campaign gathering momentum and crowds are becoming larger and larger with each passing day. On the other hand Shahbaz Sharif also leading rallies across Punjab and attracting reasonable crowds, it looks, Imran Khan is the only man who is trying to compete PMLN in Punjab and KPK, attracting reasonable crowds but still not huge enough to threaten PMLN in Punjab and parts of KPK , his campaign is lacking   momentum rather he needs two or three big big rallies to really kick start his campaign and brighten his chances in GE2013. On the other hand the third party, PPP has almost vanished from Hazara to Sahiwal, even in Southern Punjab is relying on Bradri vote and missing  charismatic Leader like BB to help them out after horrendous five year of their rule.

Now let us find out what are the prospects of different parties in coming GE. A popular feeling in Social and Electronic Media is that it will be a hung Parliament and nobody will get a clear mandate. PPP supporters hoping against hope that PTI will be their saviour and make a crack in right wing vote bank and PPP will be be the net beneficiary of PTI and PMLN fight.

Recent Polls and International Press has clearly indicated that PMLN is the front runner by a long distance, whether its Gallup, Pildat, Fefma, Economist and recently Guardian also declared, PMLN as the front runner. If we look  closely into these Polls, PMLN going to get 110-115 NA seats, PPP 45-50, PTI 15-25, MQM 18-20 and rest of the seats will be shared between Independents and other small group's. On the other hand Economist is assuming PMLN will be getting 59% of the popular vote, meaning more than 150 seats.

There should be no illusion in any body's mind that from "Hazara to Sahiwal", it's two way fight between PTI and PMLN, that accounts for 114 NA seats and who so ever Win's this battle Royal, is going to form next Federal Government.  PPP is almost missing from the scene in these 114 seats battle, despite few terror threats in these areas, is not able to hold a single Jalsa till now, neither their ally Q League able to hold big rallies . We all should remember in cities where urban middle class lives, voting pattern is performance based, Zardari Regime has played havoc in this regard for last five year's.  Secondly close to 35% of the voter's are below thirty, who haven't seen BB or ZAB,  have only witnessed Zardari Regime for last five years and it's horrendous aftermath to economy, not willing to vote PPP. Thirdly Leaderless PPP is not able to hold rallies or Jalsa's, hence gather a momentum of some sort as PMLN and PTI are doing, literally leaving PPP in lurch and out of the race on these 114 seats except few here and there if they get lucky.  PMLN is running the show from Hazara to Sahiwal with PTI threatening them on few seats but up till now, not able to gather enough pace to pose a  stiff challenge to PMLN. The picture really looking bleak as far as PPP is concerned, even their stalwart's like Tasneem Quershi NA 66, Firdous Ashiq Awan NA 111, Imtiaz Safdar Waraich NA 98, Nazar Gondal NA 109, Nadeem Afzal Gondal NA 64, Mian Manzoor Ahmad Wattoo  NA 146-147, Qamar Zaman Kaira NA 106 are feeling the heat and  striving for their political survival, as report's from thier area's are not very encouraging and stiff fight is expected on PPP safe seat's. Nawaz Sharif and  Shahbaz Sharif aggressive campaign and huge rallies are not helping them either, giving headaches and monumental task to retain their seats.  All the theories in air that PTI is going to cut PMLN or right wing vote would ultimately benefit PPP and hence ensure another term in office, are dieing a slow death, as  explained earlier, in cities where urban middle class lives, this right and left debate is almost done and dusted.

As soon as you enter Southern Punjab , it becomes a three horse race between PPP, PTI and PMLN. Here again four things matter's 1) Party Vote 2) Leadership 3) Bradri  4) Religious Vote. For the last five years PMLN has focused that area and has  invested a lot, in Medical Colleges, Universities, Dannish School's, roads, infrastructure, Hospital's etc has been able to increase their Party vote bank considerably  secondly have been able to lure big guns into their party,  as we speak PMLN  has got the  strongest candidates in Southern Punjab and bradri's have aligned themselves with them,  report's are suggesting it's getting tough for PPP to hold on to their fort. Similarly PTI lured many big names into their rank's and posing a stiff challenge to establish poll parties but thing going against PTI is that they are a very young party,  Imran Khan  wasn't able to make a people to people contact in last 15 years until recently he started focusing on that area, root's of PTI are not strong enough. PPP hopes of Yousaf Raza Gillani leading their campaign in Southern Punjab with a Separate Province slogan would materialise, until now whether he is not getting enough public support or Intra-Party rifts?, thing's are not very clear . But still Southern Punjab is a battle field and tough contests are expected in all District's but  PPP needs to pick up otherwise they will lose their much trumpeted card of Southern Punjab.

As we enter in Sindh , PPP is still very confident and hoping to get enough seat's as they did in previous GE or even improve the tally. But a strong alliance is emerging against PPP in Sindh and if they are able to field joint candidates, anything can happen in one on one fight. As there is no PTI in interior Sindh and PPP contesting it's first election without any towering leadership or  sympathy vote to bank on, it can be a tough battle for PPP , by this time it's PPP's election in Sindh.

 GE2013 is make or break for two parties " namely" PPP and PTI. PPP trying to save Bhutto's legacy and win enough seat's to be in the game and a force to reckon until Bilwal leads them to yet another glory. While PTI is striving to make a dent in major poll parties vote bank and find an honourable identity for themselves, so they can become a force and replace of PPP as the second biggest Poll party in Pakistan. As for PMLN it's their GE, if they lose, there no one to blame and they are looking to form the next Federal Government, seemingly with a clear cut  rather  than a spilt  mandate, contrary to a popular belief of a hung Parliament.