EASY ESCAPE: We, the people, leave no chance of blaming the government for the prevailing corruption in society, but we continue to indulge in corrupt practices ourselves without hesitation. Bribery, nepotism, dishonesty and tax evasion are common at every level of society and we continue to indulge in these malpractices leisurely. How can we expect corruption-free governance when people themselves are corrupt? Moreover, those who are not corrupt, but avoid raising voice against corruption also have to share the blame for promoting corruption in the country. Blaming the government is an easy escape from a complex situation. Accountability must begin with us. The choice is stark, and the consequences of inaction are rather dire.

Syeda Ariba Bukhari
Karachi

SHOWERING FAVOURS: The famous idiom about ‘raining cats and dogs’ fits the present situation in the country rather well; not with regard to actual rains, but in terms of the various favours that are being showered on our elite. From increase in the remuneration of legislators and officials to the distribution of medals, life is good in the elite lane. The government seems to be in a hurry probably because it thinks this is its last stint in power.

Malik ul Quddoos
Karachi

PROPAGANDA: The recent assassi-nation of Mufti Munir Shakir is a stark reminder of how violence is not only a security threat, but also a carefully crafted propaganda tool. The resurgence of terrorist attacks, coupled with the systematic targeting of religious figures, suggests a coordinated attempt to spread fear and chaos. By fuelling political instability and fostering mistrust, such forces aim at weakening Pakistan from within and tarnishing its image globally. The only antidote is resilience, transparency and unity. Pakistan must counter this propaganda with swift justice, stronger intelligence operations, and a national narrative that firmly rejects extremism in all forms.

Sajjad Khan
Islamabad

Published in Dawn, April 14th, 2025