MERE NUMBERS: In the recent by-election in Hangu, the turnout was a mere 14 per cent. Of the total valid votes cast, the winning candidate polled 21,583 votes, while 23,063 decided not to vote for him. The number of votes the winner polled was just 6.8pc of the total. Still, he became a member of parliament. Is this not some kind of a joke? Recent political events have underlined our incapacity to work under the current system. When will the people wake up? Are 75 years not enough?

Shameem Ahmad
Karachi

SOCIAL APATHY: Regardless of the outcome of the episode involving a family in Karachi’s Shah Faisal Colony, society at large stood exposed as a cold-hearted crowd, and not a nation. The neighbours were not cooperating with the girl’s father and were not ready to provide recordings of CCTV cameras which could have helped him trace the culprits. The locality mosque refused to make a public announcement. And police came into action only after the matter was highlighted on the social media. Are these signs of a nation?

Mujeeb Ali Samo
Larkana

MENTAL HEALTH: Climate change, especially smog, has been found to be associated with a range of mental health concerns. It increases irritability and depression and increases the chances of suicidal ideation. Extreme heat contributes to increased aggression and can lead to situations like domestic violence and memory loss. With Pakistan in the grip of the climate change phenomenon, we must all watch out for ourselves.

Zain ul Abideen
Islamabad

SALARY INCREMENT: Increase in salaries, pensions and minimum wages is a welcome step. While the existing and retired civil servants will enjoy the perks immediately, private-sector employees, labourers and the working class at large will have to face a delay. The government should immediately register the workers and employees of the private sector and make it illegal to have an unregistered employee.

Qasim Ali Qasim
Rawalpindi

Published in Dawn, May 2nd, 2022