I am writing this letter while watching on TV scenes the gruesome murder of 43 persons of the peaceful Ismaili community in a bus in Karachi. This is the city where I have lived for most part of my life. It was a very peaceful place in my childhood and youth.

It is very unfortunate that for the past few decades, this metropolis has gradually become a dangerous place. The lives of citizens are at risk because organised groups which have no respect for human life are out to destroy this city.

It is good that General Raheel Sharif has called off his visit to Sri Lanka and is in the city. The COAS is right when he says that the National Action Plan would be taken to its logical conclusion.

I feel one reason for the rise in crimes in Karachi is the non-availability of the required number of policemen for common citizens. I request Sindh IG Police, and Karachi police chief to let us know the number of policemen deployed on VVIP and VIP duties and those available for the safety of common citizens.

Abdul Qayum Khan

Seef, Bahrain

(2)

YET again target killers have spread havoc and mayhem in the city. The victims were 43 members of the peaceful Ismaili community. Many among the dead were children and women.

The authorities have failed to maintain law and order. These targeted killings hit the financial capital badly and hamper the national programme for development. This problem needs to be solved once and for all. The citizens of Karachi want peace at all costs.

Let us pray for those who have died May Allah rest their soul in peace. Ameen

I appeal through these columns that the authorities take immediate action to bring peace to Karachi and the citizens of Karachi promote tolerance.

Rana Hassan

Karachi

(3)

Another mass killing in Karachi, but the Sindh government remains unmoved, except to announce ‘donations’ to the families of the victims. How long will this go on?

Some will claim, as usual, that “foreign hands” are responsible, as if that absolves them of all responsibility.

Sindh government ministers should be told to leave Karachi alone.

Shakir Lakhani

Karachi

Published in Dawn, May 14th, 2015

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