ANOTHER AMNESTY: This is with reference to the news “Another ‘no questions asked’ package unveiled” (March 2). A party that specifically blamed amnesty schemes for encouraging corruption has launched one amnesty scheme after another in its three years in power. What is the difference between them and the rest? If the government really cares about the people, it should go after smugglers and mafias rather than giving them a way out.
Shakir Lakhani
Karachi
CORRUPTION NARRATIVE: The government should clarify whether all the leaders against whom cases are being heard in various legal forums on account of corruption charges would also be eligible to take advantage of the latest amnesty scheme. In case these leaders do invest in industrial undertakings by paying the required five per cent tax under the latest amnesty scheme, the ruling party will have to come up with a new narrative altogether.
Moin Mohajir
Karachi
MONEY ABROAD: This is with reference to the article ‘The upside of war’ (B&F, Feb 28). Which quoted a stakeholder as saying that “over-invoicing of machinery/raw material cost is a common practice” in Pakistan. Perhaps equally notorious, if not more, is under-invoicing of exports. The reason is the absence of modern computerised modes of assessment by the Customs. Leaving things to human discretion has always cost the country its revenue and, more importantly, the invaluable foreign exchange.
Asma Mati
Karachi
HIGH COST: According to the Environmental Protection Agency, for the construction of the 8km 10th Avenue, more than 900 trees will be chopped off. Further, pavements, parks, ground and a nursery in the area will also be removed. Roads are meant to facilitate people, but the cost in this case seems a little too high. The relevant authorities should come up with a new master plan having creative solutions for environmental issues.
Umayr Sahlan Masud
Islamabad
Published in Dawn, March 7th, 2022
