APROPOS the move for citizenship for Bengalis and Afghans born in Pakistan. I would like to share a personal story and then ask my countrymen what should be done for these stateless individuals.

A few years ago I came across a 22-year-old Bengali boy addicted to drugs and in very poor health. After spending a considerable amount on his treatment and rehabilitation I bought him a rickshaw as without a CNIC he could not find any job.

His troubles did not end there. He was unable to get a driving licence or get the rickshaw registered without an identity card. He was also harassed and humiliated every day by the police, who forced him to give them bribes and part with his hard- earned money. He sold the rickshaw and gave that money to a man who would help him out of the country and land in Greece. He was caught near the Turkish border. His parents, I heard, are now trying to arrange money to pay another man to bring him back to Pakistan. If successful, what will he do here?

I know it will be difficult for Imran Khan to convince others politicians but if he succeeds it will be God’s blessing for trying to help these people. There is enough in this country for everyone, but not enough for a few greedy leaders.

Cmdr (retd) H.M. Kidwai

Karachi

Published in Dawn, September 23rd, 2018