IT is a welcome move by the state to have initiated a counterterrorism operation called Raddul Fassad. Indiscriminate elimination of the remaining terrorist threats, securing the gains made in Zarb-i-Azb and tightening security are fundamental objectives which seem to be an extraordinary idea and should be welcomed by every patriotic countryman.

However, the previous experience of the National Action Plan is a disappointing example because it could not carry out in its entirety for various reasons, the main one being the opposition by the country’s religious right.

In opposition to the norm of the state the zealots kept speaking publicly against counter-terrorism strategy. Silence adopted on some of the core contents of NAP was indeed shocking, which has sent a message wrapped in doubt and confusion across the country, even internationally it did not go well.

It was clearly noticed that civilian and army powers succumbed to the pressure of religious parties and groups when it came to brain-designing institutions. It is hoped this time Raddul Fassad will be executed in its entirety.

Aijaz Ali Shah

Karachi

Published in Dawn, February 27th, 2017