…DAILY the media is reporting a number of incidents [in Sindh] from tribal feuds to honour killings to dacoities and kidnapping for ransom. All this is aga­inst the culture of this land.

In a recent incident, a wo­man in Larkana had to face a baseless allegation of having illicit relations with her son-in-law; a jirga was later held which decided a fine of Rs1.1 million and two minor girls as ‘compensation’. Is our government unaware of such incidents? ... People are living a life of uncertainty in terror.

Governance is not the name of having protocol and enjoying power for personal benefits. Problems of the common man are the priority of any government. But sorry to say, the government has failed in this regard. The result is before us. ... Movement from one place to another has become too risky.

It is unfortunate that tribal feuds have been continuing for years. Neither the government nor any official is ready to take legal steps. During British rule, they set examples by awarding punishment on the spot for honour killing. It is a matter of record that after such a deterrent honour killings rarely took place.

The incumbent rulers [should also be] strict when it comes to implementing the law. ...— (June 2)

Selected and translated by Sohail Sangi.

Published in Dawn, June 3rd, 2014