| June 10, 2005 | Friday | Jumadi-ul-Awwal 2, 1426 |
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Woman prayer leader
Petroleum products taxation
Residents’ woes
Hockey loss
Desecration
Sino-Japanese ties
‘Mess in the districts’
Test status of Bangladesh
PTCL blues
Improving education
Resource distribution
CONSIDER this hypothetical situation. Before the invasion of Iraq, Mr Bush makes an advance payment of some $100,000 to the manufacturers of a German luxury car and books one for himself. When the time for delivery comes, post-invasion, he is informed that the automobile of his choice cannot be delivered because of a ban imposed by the German government on the export of luxury cars to the US administration owing to America’s occupation of Iraq.
Instead of a cash refund, they offer to ship wheat and edible oil in exchange. Wouldn’t the US president be furious and refuse to accept anything but the car?
Pakistan has had a similar experience in a deal with the US. The country had paid over $600 million in cash in the late 80s for 28 F-16s of the A and B types to augment its fleet of 40 bought earlier. Unfortunately, the delivery of these 28 was blocked after sanctions were imposed in 1990 owing to the infamous Pressler Amendment related to Pakistan’s nuclear programme.
Consequently, the fighters were mothballed in the US, and Pakistan unjustly had to pay money as storage charges. After reaching the conclusion that these would never be delivered, Islamabad asked Washington to return the hefty amount of cash.
What finally happened after the passage of many years and much bitterness was again something unpalatable. The Clinton administration, perhaps to muster some influence over the overtly nuclearized Pakistan of 1998, decided to ship a large quantity of soybean oil and wheat worth hardly $450-500 million — if one recalls correctly — in lieu of returning the cash after making big deductions for some reason. Strangely enough, these greatly overpriced edibles were branded as “US aid” to this country.
The people of Pakistan have not forgotten this unpleasant episode. President George Bush can correct this disconsolate situation through a grand gesture of goodwill, win the Pakistanis’ hearts and undo the long years of unnecessary mental anguish they have had to suffer for having an inadequate air defence.
Mr Bush should authorize the release of the 28 aeroplanes lying in storage that had already been paid for by us. The shipment of the oil and grain may be treated as actually having been “US aid”, rather than a bitter-pill-of-a-refund that we had no choice but to swallow.
This action, if taken, will end the Pakistanis’ grievance, whose country is a major non-Nato ally and a leading partner in the war against terrorism. On their part, the Americans would still make a considerable amount of money because of the avionics upgrades the Pakistan Air Force would in all probability seek. Also required would be missiles like air-to-air Sidewinders, AMRAAMS and Sparrows; air-to-ground types possibly including Maverick and Harpoon; the Paveway laser-guided and CBU-series cluster bombs, as also spares for these fighters for years to come.
Of course, the 75 or so new “Falcons” that the PAF is likely to buy would make a significant contribution to the continuation of jobs of the 5,000 Lockerheed Martin Corp. employees in Mr Bush’s home state of Texas. In addition, there would be greater earnings for the countless manufacturers of the missiles, bombs and the 50,000 plus line items required by a modern plane.
The suggestion, if accepted, is likely to please the religious hard-liners here and, help soften their stand towards America. The only other alternative to this win-win situation for everybody appears to be for Washington to allow the back-ordered F-16s to rust, miss the opportunity to sell the other requisite items and let the Pakistanis’ unhappiness persist.
KHALID CHAUDHRY
Karachi
THIS is with reference to the letter by Shaikh Khurshid Hasan (April 27). Although it has been some time since this letter was published, I felt that there has been no clarification regarding the citation from the lectures of Dr Hamidullah. For ascertaining the correct ruling regarding this issue we need to consult the primary sources of Islam — the Holy Quran and Sunnah — in that order.
The Quran places a lot of emphasis on “salaat” (prayers), and establishing prayers are an important component of faith: “Successful indeed are the believers. Those who offer their “salat” with all solemnity and full submissiveness. (Surah 23, Al Mu’minun, verses 1-2).
However, details regarding prayers are found in the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (PBUH). Therefore, regarding the issue of woman prayer leaders we need to consult the authentic narrations.
I found the following rulings which would help clarify the issue: 1. A woman can lead a congregation. Hazrat Ayesha (RA) reports that she used to lead ladies in prayer while she stood between the row in the centre of the first file. (Transmitted by Darqutni) Al Talkhees Ul Habeer, Vol.2, H. 597. 2. When a woman who is capable of leading prayers is present in the house, other women in the house should make arrangements for performing congregational prayers.
Umm-i-Waraqa (RA) reports: the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) had ordered her to lead the prayer of ladies at their home. (Sahih Sunnah. Transmitted by Abu Dawood lil Albani. Vol. 1, H. 553.)
The above “ahadith” clearly show that a woman is allowed to lead prayers of ladies. As far as men are concerned, they are required to pray in the masjid. We get to know this from a hadith that Abu Hurairah (RA) reports that the Prophet (PBUH) said: For a hypocrite no prayer is more tiresome than the prayer of Fajr and Isha. If ever he realizes how magnanimous the reward of these two prayers is, he would come to attend even walking on his knees. I intend to order the proclaimer for prayer to proclaim, and another man to lead the congregation, and I myself with a flame of fire burn the houses of those who do not come to masjid for prayers (even after hearing the proclamation). (Transmitted by Bukhari and Muslim. Al Lu’lu’ wal Marjan. Vol. 1. H. 383.)
The above hadith clearly shows the importance of praying in the masjid for men. As far as women are concerned, it is preferable for them to pray at home as we get to know from the following hadith: Abdullah bin Umar (RA) reports that the Prophet (PBUH) said: Do not prohibit the women to offer prayers in masjid. However, it is better for them to pray at home. (Sahih Sunnah. Transmitted by Abu Dawood lil Albani. Vol. 1. H. 550.)
SUMAIRA DADA
Karachi
THIS has reference to Mr Mirza Jawad Baig’s letter “Taxation of petroleum products” (June 4).
At present, oil prices in international market are still at $52 per barrel.
These prices are higher than the time when the government of Pakistan froze prices on March 15 when oil was at $45 per barrel and oil marketing companies were subsidizing the prices by Rs1.92 per litre for HSD, Rs3.12 per litre for kerosene and Rs1.82 per litre for LDO.
Even during the current fortnight, OMCs continue to subsidize the price of diesel by Rs2.03 per litre, kerosene by Rs3.02 per litre and LDO by Rs2.11 per litre.
Hence, it is incorrect to say that oil prices are at their the lowest. The government, due to the high prices of POL products, is not levying any PDI.
The Oil Companies Advisory Committee was established in the 60s. This independent body provides professional advice to the oil industry and coordinates with port authorities, federal, provincial and local administrations, industrial consumers, the ministry of petroleum and natural resources and the government of Pakistan on issues related to the oil sector.
The fortnightly announcement of prices of petroleum products is only a very small part of a whole range of tasks performed by the OCAC.
At present the oil marketing companies’ distribution margins are fixed at 3.5 per cent whereas the petroleum dealers’ margins are four per cent. These are still the lowest in this region. Enhanced margins are instrumental in increasing investment in the oil sector. Since the revision of margins in March 2002, the oil industry has invested more than Rs11 billion in developing the infrastructure and in providing services to consumers.
As far as the OCAC’s role in announcing prices of petroleum products is concerned, it calculates the prices on the basis of a well-defined, transparent, ECC-approved pricing formula which is available at the OCAC website. www.ocac.org.pk
Mr Jawad Baig has suggested reviewing petroleum prices on a quarterly basis, instead of a fortnightly basis. If adopted, this proposal will lead to a high price variation, which would increase the financial burden on the consumer and the industry.
S. ZULFIQAR ALI JAFFRI
Secretary, OCAC
Karachi
We, the residents of 18 bungalows in KDA-1 (extension), opposite the National Stadium, Karachi, have been living peacefully for decades. Recently, thanks to a federal minister who also resides in this area, our roads have been paved and we are able to move easily.
Unfortunately, for the last few months, a multinational company has set up its office in 203-C, in KDA-1 (Ext) and has made our lives miserable. A large number of the employees’ cars are parked outside our homes until late in the night. Everyday, countless number of young men visit the offices and at times it seems there is a mob outside our homes. The bungalow has been painted a garish pink, a sure-shot eyesore.
We are very much disturbed as we feel that this is just the beginning. This is a purely residential area and we have never had any commercial activity in the vicinity. All shops and offices are on the main road. We feel that soon other companies would follow suit and our peace would be shattered and our homes would become commercial units. Moreover, we are now vulnerable to anti-social elements who may also create difficulties in the near future. Our womenfolk are very agitated as they are not able to take their evening walks due to the presence of so many men.
We request the government to please issue orders to the multinational to vacate the premises.
RESIDENTS
Karachi
THE Malaysian goal keeper Jamaluddin single-handedly defeated Pakistan who had beaten everyone else, including India, in the last Azlan Shah league hockey match. He saved six definite goals off penalty corners and stopped at least four field goals.
The Pakistani goalkeeper could stop only one goal out of two corners Malaysia earned and he also deflected one direct hit. Not much of a performance.
The Pakistani team had not lost to anyone though it escaped defeat against Australia when they scored two goals each. That gave them the wrong notion that Malaysia would be an easy opponent. This wrenched from them the possible championship. Though the Pakistani captain said it before the match started, the team seemed to forget that no opponent should be considered week.
In the first half, the green shirts showed some misplaced confidence like they were giants and playing with Malaysian dwarfs. In the second when they could not convert any corners, they panicked. That was a recipe for disaster.
S.M. KAZIM NAQVI
Karachi
I WISH to ask a very simple question.
Why don’t you ask from celebrated clerics who organize violent protests against desecration of the Holy Quran by some non-Muslims about the number of holy books, including the Quran, that are destroyed or burnt when bombs are exploded in mosques, imambargahs, churches and temples, etc., by paid mobsters let loose by them?
If you chicken out and prefer to watch the rampage of death and destruction, it would be deduced that you have no option except to condone the action of a few extremist mullahs.
“DISGUSTED”
THE Japanese ambassador has commented (June 5) critically on my article “Tensions in Sino-Japanese relations” (May 16).
I would first like to emphasize that as a career diplomat, and an analyst since my retirement, I have sought to be objective and balanced. The ambassador has read things into my article I did not write. I have not commented on Japan’s candidature for a permanent seat on the Security Council, and personally believe that in any reform of the UN, Japan’s financial contribution, that is second only to that of the US, must be recognized.
Although I have not served in Japan, I have visited that country, and have expressed the wish more than once that Pakistan should become like Japan, in qualities of discipline and hard work. Of course, I also believe that we have much to learn from China, whose problems as a developing country are more similar to ours.
China’s emergence as a major power has created legitimate concerns among some of its neighbours as to how the world’s most populous country will behave. China has also demonstrated its policy of promoting an environment of peace in its region, by its initiatives over North Korea. However, my view that Japan is supportive of US moves to contain China cannot be regarded as a biased opinion. The US-Japan strategic alliance since 1945 is a well-known fact, and Mr Koizumi has been more direct in backing the US strategy, in which his support to Taiwan cannot but cause resentment in China. That this is a cause of heightened tension is stating the obvious. Japanese diplomacy will hopefully rise to the challenge.
The crux of my article is that China and Japan are both great economic powers, whose examples, as well as assistance, are important for other Asian countries, including Pakistan. My concluding paragraph voices the hope that the two great Asian countries, with which we enjoy close and friendly relations, can resolve their differences peacefully, for the good of Asia and the world.
I trust this elucidation would help put my article in the correct perspective. In the Asian Century we are aspiring to, both these countries have a crucial and complementary role to play.
MAQBOOL AHMAD BHATTY
Islamabad
THIS refers to Mr Ayaz Amir’s article “Mess in the districts” (May 27). Indeed, the nazims have proved by their “marvellous” performance that replacing the deputy commissioner is not as easy as vilifying the same as a colonial legacy. Certainly, no inefficient system can take over an efficient one unless the takeover itself is forcibly euphemized as a “paradigm shift”.
One may ask as to why no Sonia Naz had to intrude into the in-session National Assembly or no Nazish Asghar had to go for self-immolation on the Constitution Avenue when the deputy commissioner headed the districts? Incidents like the Mukhtaran Mai or Dr Shazia case were also unheard of before the introduction of the nazim system.
The fact is that the justice system is not delivering because the deputy commissioner, who used to be its pivot, is no more there. The deputy commissioner, in his capacity as district magistrate, not only acted as a filter for the superior courts of law but also ensured timely implementation of verdicts in addition to being an effective check on excesses of the police. Nobody is left now to look after these vital areas.
MUHAMMAD WAQAR ASLAM
Quetta
I AGREE with the views of Javed Miandad that the Bangladesh cricket team should be suspended from retaining Test status, and would like to suggest that the following course of action be adopted to assess when the team can be allowed to come out of the suspension. While Bangladesh, as a cricketing nation, may be allowed to play one-day international matches, as usual, their Test matches be regarded as “unofficial Test matches” beyond the cognizance of the ICC. But the team should be made to play five-day matches (unofficial Test matches) with all the test playing countries. Only when the Bangladesh cricket team defeats at least two of such test-playing teams, that its test status be revived.
This principle may also be applied to the present Zimbabwe cricket team unless they can overcome their differences and revive the old standard.
A.M. SAYIED
Karachi
Manufacturers of the telephone system have designed a foolproof convenient system of busy tone, which tells the caller that the line is busy.
Now this department has introduced a recorded message which says, “Wait, the line is busy”, thus increasing our bill.
The department’s high-ups are requested to look into this innovation and save subscribers from inflated bills.
SYED MUSLEHUDDIN AHMED
Karachi
To arrest deterioration in education in Sindh, I suggest that teachers’ pay and perks be doubled. Teachers should be also provided free accommodation near schools.
The education secretary should not belong to other groups, but should be from the teachers’ community itself so that their problems can be more readily understood.
No transfers, postings or appointments of teachers should be made on the request of nazims, MNAs and MPAs of the area.
The appointment of junior teachers as executive district officers (education) and assistant executive district officers (education) ought to be banned and seniormost, well-trained and experienced persons should be assigned job as the district head of education.
PERVEZ AHMED SHAR
Khairpur
EACH province demands a basis of distribution that can give it an edge over others. Population, revenue generation, individual income-tax paid, poverty (the poorer a province, the more its demand) and geographical area of the province are the five or six demanded criteria by Punjab, Sindh, the NWFP and Balochistan, respectively.
In fact, a few more criteria like “illiteracy (the more illiterate a province, the more its share)” and what not could be added to the list of criteria.
The share of each province can then be worked out on the basis of each of the suggested criteria of distribution, added up and averaged out by dividing the total so obtained for each province by the number of used basis.
The share so obtained will obviously give the most equitable and just distribution.
EJAZ AHMAD
Karachi
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