DURING the recent celebrations on the eve of Pakistan’s win over India in ICC Champions Trophy, there was firing in the air. Khyber Pahtunkhwa and Karachi had the maximum casualties because of this activity, while there was sporadic firing at other places.

Men, women and children had injuries that ranged from the superficial to deep ones. In a press report, a young boy got his eye blown by a bullet and his brain damaged, turning him into a cripple for the rest of his life. It must have been an enormous tragedy for the boy and his family.

It is indeed unfortunate that we indulge in such an uncivilised behaviour. Many lives have been lost and injuries suffered owing to firing during marriage ceremonies.

England and Australia play Ashes series and they celebrate victories in civilised ways. Sport teaches civilised behaviour. The country has been flooded with illegal arms, and the government itself issues arms licences indiscriminately.

It is time the government adopted strict measures to prevent aerial firing to prevent loss of lives and injuries. Political parties should also play their role in checking this menace. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government claims it will create a ‘new Pakistan’. This is the area where the provincial government and the political party governing the province should prove it by its deeds.

Prof (Dr) Mahmud Ahmad Akhtar
Rawalpindi

Published in Dawn, July 21st, 2017