THE Pasban-i-Shariat organisation in the North Waziristan Agency has recently distributed a propaganda leaflet among people, according to media reports.

The leaflet has tried to make the people of the North Waziristan Agency believe that ‘democracy is forbidden for tribes’.

The propaganda leaflet has tried to convince them that they must reject the democratic system in Fata. The sole aim of this leaflet seems to denounce the process of elections in Fata and promote an atmosphere of anarchy and lawlessness there.

Pakistan has sacrificed a lot to make the process of democracy move forward. One can easily notice a passion of keenness for democracy in people from all walks of life, including the judiciary, the armed forces, politicians and the media.

The process of democracy is proceeding in the right direction and the situation is getting better and better with the passage of time.

The opposition to democracy by militant organisations is based on personal benefits. The leaders of such organisations are very well aware of the fact that democratically elected people would become a challenge and threat to their authority and, as a result, they will not be in a position to materialise their hegemonic designs and impose their point of view on the people.

If we are seriously against the menace of terrorism, we will have to support the democratic process honestly, thinking it as our national obligation.

DR ANEETA KHAKWANI Bahawalpur

Eliminating terrorism THE Sindh excise department has decided to introduce new number plates for motorcyclists. It is well-known that most of the crimes are committed on motorcycles due to there rapid and quick access to the scene of crime and later speedy disengagement and quick withdrawals. Reportedly white number plates are being introduced for the vehicles registered in 2011 and for motorcycles whereas the requirement is that all motorcycles should have new number plates throughout Sindh.

This can only ensure uniformity but if the purpose and motive is to reduce criminal activity involving use of motorcycles, then I am afraid this small administrative action will have no effect on the criminal use of motorcycles already in practice.

To create a more effective method, the numbers of motorcycles must also be engraved on fuel tank, handle and mudguards. Any motorcycle found with any discrepancy or number found mutilated should be charged under the relevant law. As there are a huge number of motorcycles, preparation of number plates should be outsourced so that the new discipline is enforced as soon as possible.

In 2006 I had given the same suggestion to the inspector-general of police but there was no response to it. Had the suggestion been implemented, we could have saved a lot of innocent lives. But it is never too late to take steps in this regard.

M.A. BUTT Karachi