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The Pakistan link to the ISKP Moscow terror attack

ISKP has in recent times become the recruitment ground for fighters from Central Asia and in 2022, it was estimated that the group had a strength of 1500 to 4000 fighters, many of whom were of Uzbek, Tajik and Kazakh origin. Recall that many members of the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU) had originally pledged its loyalty to ISIS Central in 2015, thus signalling Central Asia as a fertile recruiting ground and ISIS target … writes Dr Sakariya Kareem

An Islamic State terror attack occurred at the Crocus City Hall music venue in Krasnogorsk, Moscow Oblast, Russia on 22 March 2024. Four gunmen carried out a mass shooting, as well as slashing attacks on the people gathered at the venue, and used incendiary devices to set the venue on fire. The Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP), an Afghanistan-based affiliate of the Islamic State, claimed responsibility for the attack in a statement through the IS-affiliated Amaq News Agency.

Amaq also published a video filmed by one of the attackers. It showed the attackers shooting victims and slitting the throat of a victim, while the filming attacker was reciting the takbir, praising God and speaking against infidels. Pertinently, the US subsequently claimed that it had warned Russia eighteen days in advance of the Moscow concert hall assault of a possible attack involving religious extremists from Pakistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. The US warning, as it were, is a stark reminder of the dubious role played by Pakistan and its intelligence agencies in creating and nurturing scores of terrorist organizations in the past several decades, including the ISKP. The impact of this terrorist infrastructure is today thus being felt globally.

As stated earlier, the ISKP was founded by a breakaway faction of the TTP in 2014. However, last year evidence arose of how Pakistan’s ISI had funded the ISKP. A former senior Islamic State leader publicly acknowledged that the terrorist organization was, and may still be, financed by Pakistan. Sheikh Abdul Rahim Muslimdost who was interviewed by the pro-Taliban media outlet “al-Mersaad” about how the ISKP was financed, Muslimdost claimed that it received money both from the Islamic State in Syria and Iraq and, from Pakistan.

RUSSIA-MOSCOW-CONCERT VENUE-SHOOTING

It also supported itself by kidnapping victims for ransoms in various countries. Muslimdost also stated that financing from Pakistan has continued to this day. In the interview, circulated on Twitter by the Afghanistan Analysts Network, Muslimdost said that initially (in 2015) the Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT) had provided 50 lakh Pakistani rupees to the ISKP.
When asked how the fact that the ISKP received money from Pakistan was compatible with the fact that the terrorist group attacked the Pakistani Embassy in Kabul on 9 December 2022, Muslimdost said that it was a false flag attack, “theatre” aimed precisely at denying rumours that the group was supported by Pakistan. “The Pak Embassy attack in Kabul was just a #Drama. Nothing happened to the Ambassador. Just a bodyguard was injured,” Muslimdost said. Muslimdost was a prominent member of the ISKP, a branch of the Islamic State (Daesh) active in Afghanistan, India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Myanmar, until 2015, when he dissociated himself from the organization. In fact, he was one of its founders.
Pertinently, just as the US intercepted communications of the Moscow attack in advance, it also claimed that it intercepted communications confirming that the ISKP was preparing to carry out Kerman city attack in Iran in January 2024 which killed nearly 100 people. The ISKP later claimed responsibility for the Kerman attacks. The ISKP also claimed responsibility for the 2021 attacks outside Kabul airport that left at least 175 civilians dead, including 13 US soldiers. The ISIS affiliate was previously blamed for carrying out a bloody attack on a maternity ward in Kabul in May 2020 that killed 24 people, including women and infants. In November 2020, the group carried out an attack on Kabul University, killing at least 22 teachers and students. In September 2022, the group took responsibility for a deadly suicide bombing at the Russian Embassy in Kabul, a reminder that ISKP was prepared to target Russia for its perceived closeness to the Afghan Taliban.

Last year, Iran blamed the group for two separate attacks on a major shrine in southern Shiraz, the Shah Cheragh, which killed at least 14 people and injured more than 40.
ISKP has in recent times become the recruitment ground for fighters from Central Asia and in 2022, it was estimated that the group had a strength of 1500 to 4000 fighters, many of whom were of Uzbek, Tajik and Kazakh origin. Recall that many members of the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU) had originally pledged its loyalty to ISIS Central in 2015, thus signalling Central Asia as a fertile recruiting ground and ISIS target. The linkages between ISKP and other terror groups, as also with the Pakistan’s ISI are well known. With decades of experience in manipulating and managing the contradictions and conflicts between various terror organisations and using them to advance the agenda of the Pakistani state, the ISI used the ISKP to weaken the TTP inside Pakistan and target the Afghan Taliban inside Afghanistan. The whole Taliban-vs-ISKP narrative in fact is a creation of the Pakistani deep state.

Ehsanullah Ehsan, a former TTP spokesperson revealed (December 2023) the existence of the ‘Dabori Agreement’ between the ISI and ISKP, which ensured that the latter only targeted the Afghan Taliban and did not attack the Pakistan Army. Ehsan also listed the names of several ISKP leaders who were living in ISI safe houses in Pakistan. The ISI in fact penetrated the ISKP also by sending many LeT cadres to the ISKP with a view to manipulating the ISIS affiliate. The Pakistan-ISKP connection was also exposed with the obvious linkages between some ISKP commanders and Pak deep state. For instance, Afghanistan-based militant commander Abdul Rahim Dost, a former ISKP religious head, was arrested after 9/11 and Pakistan freed him a few years later.

This nexus was also exposed through Ismail Punjabi, who worked with the LeT in the planning of the Mumbai 26/11 terror attack. He had joined the Al Qaeda and then switched over to ISKP in 2015. He was killed the following year. In July 2019, Huzaifa Al Bakistani, belonging to Nangarhar province in eastern Afghanistan, was killed in a drone strike along with nine other associates. He, too, was an ex-LeT member. Huzaifa was the son-in-law of Aijaz Ahmad Ahangar alias Abu Usman al Kashmiri, who had also joined the ISKP. He was an ex-leader of Pakistan-backed groups Tehreek-ul-Mujahideen and Harkat-ul-Mujahideen. Ahangar, 55, had been arrested in a raid along with ISKP chief Aslam Farooqi and 20 others from Kandahar province. Ahangar is the son-in-law of Abdul Gani Dar alias Abdullah Ghazali, former chief of the TuM and an LeT commander.

That Pakistan continues to be the epicentre of the global terrorism and is involved in the promotion of transnational terror was recently evident in the remarks made by Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement member Fazal-ur-Rehman Afridi who indicated that there is a link between the Moscow terror attack and the recent attack in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Shangla district, in which five Chinese nationals were killed. He says, “It (such attacks) will not stop until or unless Pakistanis are made accountable for their actions. And whatever is happening, it’s through the proxies of Pakistan and the terrorists trained in the Pakistani training camp, especially the ISIS.” The reality of the Pakistan deep state thus stands exposed.

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Arab News Asia News PAKISTAN

Rise in blasphemy cases amidst Pakistan’s increasing radicalisation

Pakistan Taliban vows to step up war for free homeland, tells Pakistani soldiers to give up arms.(photo:IN)

Since 1990, at least 65 people have been lynched on false blasphemy charges across the country. Several dozens men and women remain on death row. Last year, 330 people were accused of blasphemy in 180 cases. In Punjab, there are 587 prisoners in various jails, of these 515 are under trial, including 508 male, six female, and one juvenile prisoner, all charged with blasphemy … A special report on Pakistan’s blasphemy cases by Dr Sakariya Kareem

A mentally disturbed woman was falsely charged and sentenced to life imprisonment under draconian blasphemy law in Pakistan in the latest in a series of punishments meted out by the state against women, minorities and other deprived sections of the society.

The woman, accused of burning pages of the Quran, strongly refused to dishonour the holy book but the judge was adamant to believe the prosecution story despite several flaws. The foremost being that the complainant was the local police which was not present at the time of alleged incident. A neighbour had complained to the police but was not listed as the complainant.

In March 2024, two students, aged 17 and 22, were given life imprisonment for sharing an alleged blasphemous media on WhatsApp. Both the youngsters denied the charges but the judge was not inclined to believe them, as always.

A month earlier, in February, a tiny ray of hope came in the form of the Supreme Court Chief Justice setting an Ahmadi man free in a blasphemy case. There was a sudden outburst of protest among the Sunni community. The fire was stoked by extremist group, Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) which took to the streets in different parts of Pakistan against the Chief Justice. In several madrasas across Punjab, protest meetings were held where threats were issued to the Chief Justice.

The protests spread like wildfire across the country–Ahmadi places of worship were demolished in Karachi, in Bahawalpur, an Ahmadi leader was shot, in Kotli graves were destroyed and in Faisalabad, a protest was organised outside the biggest hospital. A year ago, a rampaging mob, led by TLP leaders, had torched several churches, Christian homes and shops in Punjab over false blasphemy charges. The two of the accused have since been released from charges.

One recent incident summed up the vicious atmosphere in Pakistan. In Lahore’s Ichhra market, one young woman came out to shop when she was surrounded by shouting, aggressive men. Her fault was that she wore a dress with Arabic notings printed on it. The mob accused her of blasphemy although the word had a connection with Islam. The horrified woman could have been lynched there and then but for a brave young woman police officer who confronted the mob and took the girl away to safety.

She could have become just another statistic–the number of persons killed in blasphemy cases. Since 1990, at least 65 people have been lynched on false blasphemy charges across the country. Several dozen men and women remain on death row. Last year, 330 people were accused of blasphemy in 180 cases. In Punjab, there are 587 prisoners in various jails, of these 515 are under trial, including 508 males, six females, and one juvenile prisoner, all charged with blasphemy.

Between 1987 and 2023, over 2,449 people had been accused of blasphemy–the highest number of accused were 1,279 Muslims, followed by 782 Ahmadis. The highest number of cases (1770) were reported in Punjab (72%).

The state is not merely a spectator in this morbid game. It is complicit, an active partner in enforcing a series of laws that favour false accusations and put innocents on the gallows. Or being lynched or shot as former Punjab Governor Salman Taseer had been. He was killed by his bodyguard who blamed him for supporting a Christian woman, Asia Bibi, accused of blasphemy. His death led to the birth of TLP, an extremist group which the state has been using to punish minorities for raising their voice against injustice in a country which is increasingly becoming a radical Islamist state.

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BALOCHISTAN: International Community urged to Intervene

During a press conference at the Geneva Press Club, Dr. Naseem Baloch, Chairman of the Baloch National Movement (BNM), urgently appealed to the international community for intervention in Balochistan. Addressing journalists, he shed light on the significant challenges faced by the Baloch nation and called on the United Nations to champion their cause.

Dr. Baloch emphasized the dire need to end systematic injustices and violations against the Baloch people, stressing that global attention is crucial for their plea of freedom and justice to be acknowledged and acted upon. He highlighted Balochistan’s rich cultural heritage, marked by resilience and a longstanding struggle for self-determination.

Providing historical context, Dr. Baloch mentioned the 1947 declaration of Balochistan’s independence, followed by its occupation by Pakistan in 1948. He underscored the continuous resistance of the Baloch nation against this illegal invasion and brought attention to severe human rights violations, including enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and torture.

Expressing grave concerns over enforced disappearances and mass graves, he condemned the Counter-Terrorism Department’s involvement in fake encounters, perpetuating a cycle of injustice and violence against innocent Baloch civilians. He also highlighted the media blackout in Balochistan, emphasizing the need for international intervention to address human rights violations.

Dr. Naseem Baloch

Jamal Baloch, media coordinator of the Paank, Baloch National Movement’s Human Rights Department highlighted the issue of continued disappearance and the torture inflicted upon the families of the victim. He emphasized how consistent threats, harassment, and physical violence are some of the many ways used by the state to spread terror in the minds of the innocent Baloch. If the victim or his family refuse to comply, then he /she becomes the target of fake encounters.

Karlos Zurutuza, international journalist when questioned about the loss of life and territory in Balochistan, shed light on the resource-rich land which is still under the atrocious regime of the state. Lack of basic amenities to the residents despite being the richest province of Pakistan is what calls for attention. He also highlighted the plight of journalists who are either abducted or suppressed by the agencies to refrain them from covering the ground reality.

Dr. Naseem concluded the press conference by calling for collective action against Pakistan in favor of Balochistan, expressing hope that their plea would resonate globally. The conference was part of BNM’s three-day advocacy initiative during the 55th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva.

The campaign began on March 11, 2024, with BNM’s 4th International Conference on Balochistan at the Geneva Press Club. Distinguished personalities conveyed their perspectives, extending sympathy and unwavering support for the Baloch nation. The momentum will continue with events at Broken Chair over the next two days as part of the ongoing campaign.

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Terror stalks Hindu community in Sindh

Pakistan, over the years, has made the law against blasphemy so retrogressive that more often than not people charge others, especially minorities, of blasphemy for revenge, taking over property or forcibly marry… writes Dr Sakariya Kareem

In Sindh, Pakistan, the Hindu community lives under constant fear of being accused of blasphemy by radical Muslims and extremist groups like Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), all of which enjoy patronage from the Islamic state.

Even for those who have been discharged by the court for being wrongly accused of blasphemy, there is constant danger of being lynched.

Take the case of Notan Lal, Principal of a private school and a resident of Ghotki, Sindh. In 2019, some of his students accused him of blasphemy. It was not an ordinary accusation–the charges would lead to life imprisonment or even a death sentence under the most heinous penal clauses in the world. Pakistan, over the years, has made the law against blasphemy so retrogressive that more often than not people charge others, especially minorities, of blasphemy for revenge, taking over property or forcibly marrying.

Notan Lal’s case triggered an orgy of violence in Ghotki. Hindu temples were razed. Hindu families were attacked and driven to fear. The school where Notan Lal worked was attacked by arsonists. The attack against Hindus was led by Mian Mithoo, an influential Sunni leader who have been accused of promoting forcible abduction, rape, conversion and marriage of young Hindu girls. A fact-finding committee, appointed by the Ministry of Human Rights, concluded that the attacks on temples and riots were premeditated, politically motivated and had tacit political support. In 2022, Notan Lal, a father of four children, was sentenced to life.

Early this month, a High Court judge threw out the case against the Hindu teacher on the grounds of the case was being investigated shoddily and prosecution failures to produce material witnesses to prove the charges against the teacher.

Back at home, Notan Lal and their family are haunted by an equally deep rooted fear of being attacked by militant groups. The local community wants security for Lal. They fear that powerful Sunni groups could either frame him on trumped-up charges or kill him brutally.

Such fears are widespread in the Hindu community in Sindh. In Kandiyari Sanghar for instance, a woman and her three children were abducted. The main accused is an influential cleric in the region, Maulvi Mula Baksh. Her husband has been trying his best to file a criminal complaint but without any success so far. The police, as often in cases of atrocities against Hindus, are doing everything possible to fudge the case.

Members of the Bheel community in Sindh have also been protesting for long against forced acquisition of their land by local Muslim communities. Their houses have been demolished or burnt by marauding Muslim locals. The community lives under constant fear.

The fear stalks Hindus elsewhere too in Sindh. Young girls and women, even married, constantly face harassment from Muslim men; many of them are abducted, raped and forced to convert before being forcibly married. Police, judiciary and political authorities are equally complicit in these heinous crimes.

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Pak bureaucracy keeps Gilgit Baltistan people poor

Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif speaks in an interaction with foreign media in Islamabad, Pakistan, Aug. 30, 2022. (Photo by Ahmad Kamal/Xinhua/IANS)

The government officials, responsible for supplying adequate wheat flour to the people, failed on several counts, forcing people to come out into the streets, blocking highways, for weeks before the government capitulated. Many of the officials were involved in hoarding and smuggling wheat flour and did not bother about the people … writes Dr Sakariya Kareem

Pakistan officials, tasked to look after the welfare of the far-flung region of Gilgit-Baltistan, are playing with the lives of hard-pressed people with their callous attitude and behaviour. The region lacks power and water, good roads and essential services. Thanks to the bureaucracy, the region has become one of the poorer regions of Pakistan, another Balochistan in the mountains!

Bureaucrats, mostly on deputation from mainland Pakistan, care nothing about the well-being of the people who have been battling against all odds for basic living standards for a long. For several months, they have been seeking government help to provide adequate wheat flour. The government, on the other hand, had withdrawn the subsidy on wheat prices which was like a lifeline for thousands of poor and needy residents of Gilgit Baltistan.

The government officials, responsible for supplying adequate wheat flour to the people, failed on several counts, forcing people to come out into the streets, and blocking highways, for weeks before the government capitulated. Many of the officials were involved in hoarding and smuggling wheat flour and did not bother about the people.

The same inertia is being shown in other fields of public work. In the case of water and power, even the Chief Minister experienced bureaucratic ineptitude recently. The Chief Minister, Haji Gulbar Khan, had summoned a meeting of water and power officials recently but the Chief Engineer, Water and Power, Baltistan Region, chose to remain absent. This angered the CM and he asked his Minister of Planning and Development Raja Nasir Ali Khan to sanction the guilty officer. The Chief Minister said the absence of the Chief Engineer would only add to the woes of the people of the region.

This is only one of the several instances of officials from mainland Pakistan employed in Gilgit Baltistan behaving like `kings`, proving time and again their nonchalant attitude towards public welfare. The local people believe that this attitude has increased over the years as the government does not recruit the youth from the local area for the region’s requirements. Most of the officials are deputed from Punjab and other regions in Pakistan. These officers are so arrogant that they do not bother to consult or talk to the local communities about public welfare projects.

There was some relief when the federal government issued the Gilgit-Baltistan Empowerment and Self-Governance Order 2009, paving the way for the decentralisation of power to the local assembly and municipal bodies. Nothing happened thereafter. Only the bureaucracy became more powerful and authoritative. Secretaries became virtual rulers of the region and officers working under them assumed the role and power of municipal departments. There have often been clashes between officials and the local population. In one recent incident, an Assistant Commissioner of Gojal sealed a restaurant. His rude behaviour and threatening tone went viral on social media forcing his boss to cancel the sealing order.

The bureaucratic apathy, promoted by successive federal governments, has pushed the region into deeper poverty, inadequate access to basic services such as healthcare, education and clean water besides a higher rate of unemployment among the youth. The region suffers from poor infrastructure and roads, persistent power shortages and bad internet connectivity, making Gilgit Baltistan one of the poorest regions in Pakistan.

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INDIA’S ELECTORAL SAGA: A Unique Phenomenon

New Delhi, Sept 20 (ANI): Members of Parliament while voting on clauses of the Women's Reservation Bill on demand of an Opposition MP in Lok Sabha during the Special Session of Parliament, in New Delhi on Wednesday. (ANI Photo/Sansad TV)

India has a long and proud history of being a vibrant and successful electoral democracy. This identity predates its achievements in other areas like economics, nuclear power, or IT. The foundation for this system was laid by the Indian Constitution and nurtured by various institutions like the parliament, judiciary, political parties, media, and most importantly, the people of India. The Election Commission of India played a crucial role in safeguarding this process … writes Maheep

In a momentous year, India celebrates 75 years as a flourishing democratic republic, building on a successful G20 presidency that underscores its rising global influence. Imminent is the world’s largest general elections, with rumours of a March 12 announcement officially dismissed. Nonetheless, some political parties have already announced the names of the first set of candidates. The official announcement of the schedule is around the corner.

India has a long and proud history of being a vibrant and successful electoral democracy. This identity predates its achievements in other areas like economics, nuclear power, or IT. The foundation for this system was laid by the Indian Constitution and nurtured by various institutions like the parliament, judiciary, political parties, media, and most importantly, the people of India. The Election Commission of India played a crucial role in safeguarding this process.

Despite initial scepticism, the founders of modern India adopted universal adult suffrage, trusting the common people to choose their representatives. This democratic choice was considered a bold and daring step, especially considering the widespread illiteracy, poverty, and social inequalities prevalent at the time. This move proved that democracies are not simply created fit for the people, but rather become fit through the practice of democracy itself.

The independent Election Commission has successfully conducted numerous national and state elections over the past 73 years, ensuring peaceful and democratic transitions of power. This system has facilitated the rise of leaders from marginalized communities, including farmers, women, and minorities, to prominent positions in government. Additionally, the increasing diversity of parties and the formation of coalition governments reflect the broad spectrum of aspirations and voices present in Indian society.

There are several ways in which the election in India is a most unique phenomenon. In 2019, when the last general election for the federal government was held, the number of registered voters was about 900 million. India has seen a nearly six-fold rise in the total number of voters since 1951 to over 945 million in 2023.That is larger than the combined population of all European countries.

India’s enormous population makes organizing elections a massive challenge, costing billions of dollars. With over 1.4 billion people, India is now the world’s most populous country, surpassing China in April 2023. The country’s economy is also on the rise, expected to be the world’s third largest by 2027 overtaking Japan and Germany. This upcoming election is therefore crucial, as it will determine the leader of this demographic and economic giant.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) is an independent body established by the Constitution which is responsible for running India’s elections. This massive undertaking involves a dedicated team of over 300 officials based in New Delhi, who collaborate with local administrations in each state. To ensure smooth elections, the ECI assigns electoral duties to a network of around five million government officials across the country.

The number of polling booths set up across the country for the 2019 Lok Sabha election was 1,035,918. The Election Commission issued guidelines that no voter should be more than two kilometres away from a polling station. Due to the massive scale of this election, it requires a huge effort to ensure it runs smoothly and safely. In addition to the five million government officials who manage the voting process, tens of thousands of security forces are deployed to prevent any violence. These security personnel travel by a variety of means depending on the location, using everything from cars and trains to helicopters, boats, and even elephants in some cases.

New Delhi, Dec 19 (ANI): Proceedings of the Lok Sabha are underway during the Winter Session of Parliament, in New Delhi on Tuesday. (ANI Photo/Sansad TV)

Voting in India is conducted by electronic voting machines (EVM) which was first introduced in 1982. The ECI used more than 23 lakhs EVMs in the 2019 elections as compared with 18 lakhs in 2014. Vehicles carrying the EVMs were fitted with GPS devices to monitor their movements, to check for foul play. The electoral body also used digital cameras, videotaping of speeches and wireless networks during the elections. Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) machines were used along with EVMs at all polling stations after opposition parties disputed the accuracy of EVMs. VVPAT lets the voter cross-check the votes.

In today’s technologically advanced world, there is no reason why people who move within their own country (domestic migrants) shouldn’t be able to vote. Many people who move for work, marriage, or education miss out on voting because they haven’t registered in their new location. To address this and improve voter participation, India’s Election Commission is exploring a new system which would allow domestic migrants to vote at special polling stations outside their home constituency, using a modified version of the existing voting machines.

The polling booths are often set up in remote areas. More than eighty thousand polling booths did not have mobile connectivity in 2019, and roughly 20,000 polling stations were set up in forest or semi-forest areas. The ECI had arranged for a polling station in the Gir forest of western Gujarat state in the 2009 general election for just one voter.

India’s election management has undergone a significant transformation, moving from separate ballot boxes to EVMs. While EVMs have streamlined the process, ensuring a level playing field remains a major challenge. Though lacking legal enforcement, the Model Code of Conduct plays a crucial role in promoting fair elections. To address the concerns of rising money power and declining voter turnout, the ECI has implemented various initiatives.

The Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) program utilizes community outreach and media campaigns to encourage citizen participation, especially among youth. Additionally, the National Voters Day (NVD) has significantly increased voter registration, particularly among newly eligible voters. Recognizing the global interest in its expertise, the ECI established the India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management (IIDEM), which offers training and resources to both domestic and international participants. Looking ahead, the ECI is pushing for further reforms, including criminalizing politics, regulating campaign finance, and promoting internal democracy within political parties. These measures aim to strengthen the electoral process and pave the way for good governance.

India’s future seemed very uncertain in 1947, just after gaining independence. General Claude Auchinleck, the last British commander of the Indian army, believed the country was too divided to function as a nation. He compared India’s diversity to Europe, highlighting the vast differences between regions. In his view, the British had only managed a temporary unity, and India was more like a continent with many different nations than a single country. He thought this would lead to separatist movements, with the Sikhs being the first to break away.

Many experts doubted India’s future after independence, with Western observers predicting its fragmentation and failure as a democracy. They scoffed at the idea of holding elections for millions of illiterate people. Yet, in the face of skepticism and dire predictions, India’s journey from independence to a thriving democracy stands as a testament to its resilience. While acknowledging that India’s democracy may not be flawless, it represents a remarkable achievement considering the peaceful path it took to nationhood compared to other countries. Furthermore, India’s massive scale magnifies the magnificence of its democratic practices. Conducting general elections, the world’s largest exercise in free will, and numerous provincial elections across vast states is a profoundly remarkable feat. As India stands on the cusp of yet another monumental election, it serves as a reminder that the democratic spirit, which has propelled the nation through decades, continues to evolve and inspire. The ongoing narrative of India’s democracy is a story of extraordinary achievement against the odds and a promising beacon for the future.

(Dr Maheep is a leading scholar of Political Science and International Relations with an avid interest in Psephology and analysis)

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EXODUS: Pakistanis Fleeing Amid Economic Turmoil and Political Uncertainty

Political instability, unmanageable inflation, and rising religious extremism are the major factors that are driving Pakistanis out… writes Dr Sakariya Kareem

The recent case of a Pakistan airline employee getting vanished in Canada to get settled in the country highlights the growing trend of brain drain in Pakistan amid hostile domestic conditions. Even unqualified workers are trying to break into foreign countries for livelihoods. The number of Pakistani citizens leaving the country for a better life elsewhere has seen a sharp increase. In 2023, about 860,000 highly qualified and skilled professionals left Pakistan, which was 60,000 higher than a year ago and the highest since 2015.             

Political instability, unmanageable inflation, and rising religious extremism are the major factors that are driving Pakistanis out. Inflation had crossed 37 percent in May 2023 even as food inflation reached an all-time high of 48.65 percent. Joblessness and low wages added to the problem further. Sana Hashim, a digital marketing professional, said “A salaried individual like myself is really struggling because prices have skyrocketed in recent months. My income hasn’t increased, but the inflation has.”

How serious the brain drain in Pakistan has become can be gauged from the fact that a whopping 2.5 million Pakistani workers left the country in the past five years. Pakistan ranked 161st in the last published Global Human Development Index and 102nd out of the 125 countries in the latest Global Hunger Index. Young business development professional Atiya Khan, who works in the UAE, does not want to return to Pakistan. “From security to the economy there are many repelling factors, which push youngsters like me away from my homeland,” she said.  

       

Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif

Unemployment is a big issue in Pakistan as around half of young people do not have jobs. International Monetary Fund (IMF) estimated an unemployment rate of 8.5 in 2023. This factor is crucial for the exodus of the Pakistani youth to the Middle East and Western parts. “There are nearly 200 universities in Pakistan many of which award degrees in disciplines for which there are no jobs in the market,” said Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry, a former Pakistani foreign secretary. “Having spent considerable sums on education, not finding a well-paying job is a deeply frustrating experience for a young person. The lucky ones who find jobs are also frustrated because of abysmally low salaries.”

The actual number of Pakistanis leaving the country appears to be higher than the official number as many resorted to illegal means to enter prosperous foreign lands. In June 2023, around 350 Pakistani migrants died when the boat they were travelling to enter Greece illegally sank.[2] Frontex, the European Union’s border and coast guard agency, said 5,000 Pakistanis were detected on the “central Mediterranean route” into Europe in early 2023.

Pakistan has a long history of brain drain for which political instability and economic uncertainty are responsible, said former bureaucrat Zafar Aziz Chaudhry. “Given our deteriorating civil and economic conditions where there are not enough jobs to cater to our surging population, nor are there adequate laboratories or research centres where new advances in fresh discoveries of knowledge could be taken up and tested, most of the fresh youth, seeing a dismal picture at home, leave their country in frustration for greener pastures looking for a better future,” he said.

Highly skilled workers, especially, healthcare professionals are not interested in working in Pakistan due to unfair remuneration, low incentives, and bleak future prospects. ”Common drivers of brain drain in Pakistan are long-term governance issues, quality of living, financial instability and worsening infrastructure. Further, insecurity and the dwindling law and order conditions in the country encourage individuals to move overseas for a more stable life,” reads a report by the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE).

The prolonged economic crisis and political instability have left Pakistan’s governance and civic infrastructure in a dire situation. Karachi gynaecologist Afsheen Akbar said “It is painful to see some of our best doctors move to the US, but can we blame them? The conditions at public hospitals are often dire, and the health workers get paid so little.”[3] The desperation in Pakistan is growing, said Imran Khan, country director for Pakistan at the United States Institute of Peace. “We know that it is a combination of a lack of decent work and a general disillusionment about the future of the country which pushes young Pakistanis to use dangerous and illegal migration as a means to a better life,” he said.

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Vatika Naturals Inspires Inclusivity in Workplace with the #RootForMe Campaign

South Asian Hair Care Brand Vatika Naturals Champions Diversity with #RootForMe Campaign Featuring All-Female Comedy Lineup

Vatika Naturals, a flagship brand from House of Dabur, is pioneering an empowering initiative this International Women’s Day with the launch of their IWD2024 campaign, #ROOTFORME.

#ROOTFORME is a digital campaign to mark IWD2024 addressing intersectionality at the workplace which affects women of colour, compounded by race, ethnicity, religion and several other issues which can pose as a major roadblock for career advancement for a lot of our target segment and make them susceptible to workplace harassment and stereotyping. 

From being a generic hair care brand for South Asian women, this year Vatika Naturals is embarking on a journey to become the preferred brand by multi-ethnic audiences across the UK and the USA.

Redefining women’s empowerment this International Women’s Day, Vatika leads the conversation with humour to address workplace stereotypes and discrimination, through partnerships with leading stand-up comediennes like Shazia Mirza and Sikisa.

In celebration of the campaign launch, Business Head Dabur International Europe UK, Zakir Mansoori stated – Vatika Naturals has been bringing bespoke hair care solutions to multi-ethnic audiences around the World for over 35 years and the brand has been garnering a lot of love from our loyal base of customers. Earlier this year we launched our Afro Naturals range, especially for women with textured hair.  And there is lots to look forward to from Vatika, as we embark on this journey to make the brand relevant to a wider audience, which would include new product launches and newer formulations for different hair types.

Roshni Singh, Group Marketing Manager UK EU & Americas stated, “Vatika Naturals is not just a hair care brand but a custodian of values which champion diversity, differences, and uniqueness especially amongst women. With the #ROOTFORME campaign, Vatika endeavours to further strengthen its stand towards being inclusive and diverse.” #RootForMe is a call to action for individuals to stand together and dismantle barriers preventing equality for women and specifically women of colour. Vatika is always challenging the status quo or stereotypes that hinder the growth of an individual.”

Agency Founder and Chairman for HereandNow365, Manish Tiwari further elucidated that “Vatika Naturals is a brand which identifies and celebrates differences, and to match the brand’s vision, our team has developed this concept which is not just clutter-breaking but light-hearted.  The aim of deploying humour is not to make light of the issues at hand, rather to offer hard-hitting provocative messaging through treatment and platforms which resonate with our younger audiences in today’s time. The two-week campaign will launch across Vatika’s social media channels on the 8th of March 2024 across the UK and the USA. To amplify the message, the brand will be seen at iconic landmarks like Times Square, New York City and the London Underground in March, to spark dialogue around workplace issues, stereotypes, and navigating these challenges.

Categories
Asia News Jammu & Kashmir World News

Modi’s Visit Promises Healing Touch for Naya Kashmir

Prime Minister Modi’s Kashmir visit appears to be a testing ground going forward. It seems that the government is not yet convinced that it can afford to extend political incentives like the restoration of J&K’s statehood, which is the biggest confidence-building measure in the present circumstances…. Write Nasir Khuehami & Ummar Jamal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Srinagar on March 7th has stirred anticipation, casting a spotlight on the complex dynamics of the region against the backdrop of significant political changes, notably the abrogation of Article 370. While some analysts interpret this visit as a strategic move ahead of impending parliamentary elections, the underlying need for reconciliation and healing in a region cannot be overlooked.

The erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir has been without an elected administration for around the past six years. June 2024 will mark the completion of 6 years since the elected government fell. The erstwhile state has been directly governed by the Union ever since. Even though the Centre government has made repeated promises to hold free and fair assembly elections, as of right now, nothing of the kind has taken place.

The Centre’s Invitation to representatives of political parties from Jammu and Kashmir for a meeting in New Delhi in, 2021, was seen as a significant step towards resolving the political impasse following the abrogation of Article 370 and the bifurcation of the former state into two Union Territories. Leaders across the party lines were invited after facing nearly two years of stonewalling. It was seen that New Delhi leadership recognized the unsustainable nature of the current approach towards Kashmir. Some averred that the way Kashmir is being handled cannot last for long, while others averred the move was a result of growing international pressure and others opined Delhi needed the support of local leaders for the smooth implementation of the ongoing delimitation process. Whatever be the reasons for the meeting one thing is clear the meeting changed nothing for the people of Kashmir till now.

Normal life in Srinagar on the 4th anniversary of the Abrogation of Article 370 & 35A – Umar Ganie

Agree or not; the people of J&K are silent but deeply disappointed. The decision to revoke Article 370, ostensibly aimed at integrating Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of the country, has left many Kashmiris feeling marginalized and disillusioned. Modi’s upcoming visit presents a unique opportunity to address these sentiments, offering a glimmer of hope for a region yearning for stability and inclusion.

Since the abrogation of Article 370, mainstream politics in the region has been rendered ineffective as people have lost faith in the system. The vacuum created by the abrogation of Article 370 remained unfilled because mainstream politicians in Kashmir felt sidelined and were never given a chance to represent their voters. Even after the government attempted to groom a new breed of activists, they were not accepted by the people due to their little influence on the ground. The central government tried to create divisions in the regional political parties, which further created disenchantment among politicians advocating the idea of India, even during the turbulent 1990s in Kashmir.

PM Modi’s Kashmir visit appears to be a testing ground going forward. It seems that the government is not yet convinced that it can afford to extend political incentives like the restoration of J&K’s statehood, which is the biggest confidence-building measure in the present circumstances. There is a reason for it. Post the abrogation of Article 370, there was a conviction in New Delhi that a new political class could be nurtured at the expense of the traditional one and hence the constitution of Development Councils, which, however, as evident, has not resulted in desired dividends. Had that been so, the government would not have waited for the Supreme Court’s direction and instead raced to conduct the local legislative assembly polls at least a year back on its own.

Be that as it may, central to the journey towards reconciliation is the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. Beyond its political ramifications, this gesture symbolizes a commitment to healing the emotional wounds inflicted by the abrogation of Article 370. By reinstating statehood, the government can convey a message of reconciliation. However, mere symbolic gestures will not suffice. The urgency lies in conducting Assembly polls before September 30th, as mandated by the Apex court. Transparent and inclusive elections are essential to empowering Kashmiris to shape their political destiny, fostering a sense of ownership and participation in the democratic process.

Yet, addressing the grievances of Kashmiris requires more than just political measures. Modi’s visit must be underpinned by a comprehensive strategy that addresses the deep-seated trust deficit in the region. This entails genuine efforts to understand and redress the aspirations of the local population, transcending the confines of political rhetoric. It is imperative to recognize that political manoeuvres alone cannot resolve the multifaceted challenges facing Kashmir. A holistic approach is needed, one that prioritizes rebuilding trust, restoring normalcy, and empowering the local population. Modi’s visit should catalyze such an approach, fostering a narrative of unity and understanding.

In this endeavour, Modi can draw inspiration from the legacy of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, whose approach towards Kashmir epitomized the power of dialogue and empathy. Vajpayee’s mantra of “insaniyat, jamhooriyat, and Kashmiriyat” underscored a philosophy rooted in inclusivity, democracy, and respect for Kashmir’s cultural identity.

Emulating Vajpayee’s approach, Modi has the opportunity to pave the way for lasting peace and stability in the region. By prioritizing engagement over confrontation, Modi can bridge the trust deficit and address the grievances that have plagued Kashmir for decades. As Modi is set to set foot on the soil of Kashmir, the onus is not solely on political posturing but on fostering a narrative of unity, understanding, and comprehensive engagement. Only through such an approach can we envision a future where the people of Jammu and Kashmir find solace, hope, and a genuine path towards enduring peace.

(Nasir Khuehami is the National Convenor of J&K Students Association. He is Pursuing Masters in Conflict Analysis and Peacebuilding from Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi. Ummar Jamal is the National General Secretary of J&K Students Association. He is Pursuing BA. LLB from the University of Kashmir. )

Categories
Asia News PAKISTAN

CLIMATE CRISIS: Pakistan Faces Existential Threat

SWAT, PAKISTAN - SEPTEMBER 3: A view of flood disaster area in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Swat, Pakistan on September 3, 2022. With 26 more deaths over the past 24 hours, the death toll from the raging floods in Pakistan has reached 1.290, the country's national disaster agency said on Saturday. (Photo by Hussain Ali/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)

The multifaceted menace of climate change poses a profound threat to Pakistan’s stability, economic prosperity, and the overall well-being of its populace. This exploration delves into the intricate interplay between climate change and Pakistan’s existential challenges, underscoring the urgency for strategic interventions … writes Dr Sakariya Kareem

Climate change as a worldwide discourse encompasses the three significant emergencies that are climate change, environmental degradation, and pollution. This article delves into the crisis caused by climate change and its existential impact on Pakistan. Pakistan, as a country, is under the severe effects of global climate change.

Pakistan stands at a pivotal moment, facing an existential crisis that transcends conventional security worries. The multifaceted menace of climate change poses a profound threat to the nation’s stability, economic prosperity, and the overall well-being of its populace. This exploration delves into the intricate interplay between climate change and Pakistan’s existential challenges, underscoring the urgency for strategic interventions.

Nowadays, Pakistan is facing the dire consequences of climate change and an imminent water crisis. The report published by the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in August 2021 focuses on the irreversible nature of global warming and devastating summers marked by wildfires, extensive cropland damage, and heat waves.

One critical aspect is the nexus between climate change and water scarcity, intricately linked to Pakistan’s agrarian economy heavily reliant on the Indus River. Escalating impacts, such as erratic rainfall patterns and glacial melt, have led to water scarcity, significantly affecting agricultural productivity.

The melting glaciers of Pakistan are evidence of the climate crisis, as the country is highly dependent on glacier-fed rivers, particularly the Indus River. The Indus River water flows between two countries, India and Pakistan, and a significant volume of water is supplied to Pakistan. The threat looming over Pakistan due to the melting of glaciers in the Pakistan River Valley system is evident, and it is time for the government to take proactive measures and introduce regulations to address this challenge. The IPCC report predicts that if the current situation continues, then the Water shortage will happen in Pakistan by 2050. Further, the government is not making sincere efforts to generate electric energy from renewable sources and still relies mainly on nonrenewable sources of energy.

Moreover, the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, from floods to droughts, have become pronounced in Pakistan. These events not only displace communities but also exacerbate existing socio-economic disparities, necessitating a nuanced approach to bolster resilience and safeguard human security, particularly for vulnerable populations.

People of Pakistan are displaced due to environmental challenges such as untimely rains, floods, landslides and heat waves, which are causing severe impacts on the country’s human lives, agriculture and infrastructure. Large-scale deforestation along the Karakoram Highway led to the landslide. Massive infrastructure loss has happened, including the destruction of bridges and networks of roads, leading to the shutting down of the economic corridor that is responsible for trade with China.

The timber mafias exacerbate the deforestation challenge. The Pakistani government, under Imran Khan’s leadership in 2018, launched a Million Tree Plantation Drive. This initiative of planting new trees cannot replace the old forest that took several years to grow and maintain the ecosystem.

Another important factor or rather a challenge of Climate Change is the pollution near the Gwadar Port. The significant role of the port cannot be denied in Pakistan’s economic development. However, it is also shadowed by emerging environmental challenges, particularly impacting critical infrastructure like the Gwadar International Airport. The rapid industrial expansion in Gwadar has brought economic opportunities but simultaneously escalated pollution levels. The discharge of pollutants from industrial activities and shipping operations has contributed to the deterioration of air quality in the region, directly threatening the safety of flights operating at Gwadar International Airport.

The close proximity of Gwadar Port to the airport raises legitimate concerns regarding the adverse impact of air pollution on essential aviation infrastructure. Particulate matter and chemical residues from pollutants have the potential to compromise crucial elements such as navigational aids, communication systems, and runway surfaces. Stringent measures are imperative to ensure the sustained operational integrity of the airport. Additionally, poor air quality, a byproduct of pollution, significantly diminishes visibility, a critical factor for safe takeoffs and landings. This reduction in visibility increases the risk of accidents and poses challenges for pilots during essential phases of flight, underscoring the urgency to mitigate pollution in the airport vicinity.

Furthermore, the adverse effects of air pollution extend beyond infrastructure concerns to directly impact the health of aviation personnel, encompassing pilots, air traffic controllers, and ground staff. Prolonged exposure to pollutants poses a risk to respiratory health, compromising the well-being of those entrusted with ensuring the safe operation of flights. Another crucial challenge includes an emerging issue related to the overcrowding of birds attracted to sea pollution. The contaminated waters serve as a magnet for diverse bird species seeking food resources. While this addresses immediate ecological concerns, the concentration of birds introduces consequential risks to air safety.

The geographical location of Pakistan and its dependence on agriculture is making the country vulnerable to climate change. It is estimated that a reduction of 18 to 20% in Pakistan’s GDP by 2050 would occur due to environmental degradation, pollution, and climate-related issues. The problems get exacerbated by potential potable water scarcity, the surge in the prevalence of diseases, and floods. Pakistan’s existing national policies, such as the National Climate Change Policy and Pakistan Vision 2025, have failed to tackle and mitigate the effects of climate change.

In conclusion, Pakistan finds itself entangled in an existential crisis with climate change permeating every facet of its environmental, economic, and social fabric. A comprehensive and proactive approach is imperative to address the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change and secure the nation’s future. Regrettably, the prevailing trajectory, marked by inadequate governmental action, paints a bleak picture for Pakistan’s environmental sustainability. A comprehensive approach is necessary to address the various challenges posed by climate change.