LIBRARY IN DERA BUGTI: Dera Bugti is one of the most underprivileged districts of Balochistan, facing extreme poverty, low literacy rates, and constant security issues. Schools in villages remain dysfunctional, keeping children deprived of education. Many students cannot afford to move to Lahore or Islamabad for higher education. A public library in Dera Bugti can be a game-changer. It will provide free access to books and resources to help students prepare for competitive exams, which can significantly improve the literacy rate and create better opportunities for the youth. The government must establish a proper, well-equipped library in Dera Bugti.

Akhtar Bugti
Dera Bugti

BANK CLOSURE: Every year, on the first day of Ramazan, commercial banks remain closed for the purpose of zakat deduction. Though the employees attend the office as a normal working day, there is no public interaction on the day. As a matter of fact, there is no need to close the banks for the entire day. Instead, due to the computerisation of accounts, it is a matter of merely a few minutes to get zakat deducted by giving an appropriate command to the system. Earlier, when the system was being maintained on a manual basis, it was a lengthy process, but due to technology the entire system has changed. This should translate into public convenience as well.

Khawaja Tajammul Hussain
Karachi

MONTH OF BLESSINGS: Muslims celebrate and welcome the holy month of Ramazan. However, in this month of blessings, forgiveness and salvation, prices of goods and services are increased by shopkeepers, transporters and business-men. It was easier to get a flatbread for Rs20-30 before Ramazan, which is now being sold for Rs60. Similarly, the prices of meals have gone up as well. Unfortunately, this is pure injustice to those who are fasting. We, as Muslims, must understand the value of this holy month, and try to do things which are best for us and others around us.

Aslam Azeem
Awaran

Published in Dawn, March 28th, 2025