QUETTA: Efforts made by the civil and military leadership have helped remove the negative perception of Balochistan and people have come out of the state of fear that prevailed in the province for long.

This was said by Commander of Southern Command, Lt Gen Mohammad Naseer Khan Janjua, at the launching ceremony of a book on the role of students in eliminating corruption here on Wednesday.

The function was organised by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB). A competition of short films, poster making, debate and national songs was also held on the occasion in which a large number of students from different colleges and universities took part.

Also read: Era of fear is over, says Gen Janjua

“The atmosphere of fear and harassment no more prevails in the province. As a result its image has changed at local and international levels. People of the province have embarked upon a journey to a better future and a developed Balochistan,” Gen Janjua said. This was the result of joint efforts made by the civil and military leadership and cooperation extended by people, he added.

“The era of torching the national flag in the province is over. Now people are hoisting the flag without any fear across the province,” he said. “Law and order has been improved and people are living in a peaceful environment.”

He said people of Balochistan had faced hardships because of harassment created by militant organisations.

Referring to corruption, the commander said it was the responsibility of every citizen to create awareness against the curse prevailing in society.

“We will have to develop children’s mindset against corruption in order to discourage their parents if they are involved in it,” he said.

NAB Director General retired major Tariq Mehmood Malik urged people to strive to end corruption. He stressed the need for activating the youth against corruption.

Published in Dawn, September 17th, 2015

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