RECENTLY, certain district and police officials were reassigned from Sujawal district to alternative locations. Individuals from various segments of society subsequently honoured these officials and presented gifts. This demonstration apparently suggests that the officials had performed exceptionally well for the district. The reality is that these officials were civil servants obligated to perform their duties with professionalism. Even if they had fulfilled their responsibilities adequately, they would have simply discharged their mandated obligations rather than doing something extraordinary.

The concerning pattern is that influential political and economic figures tend to prioritise relationships with these officials for their own vested interests. We must liberate ourselves from the practice of venerating civil servants and regarding them as superior beings deserving of exceptional reverence. We must emancipate our minds from intellectual subjugation. We must recognise our inherent worth and significance as integral members of society.

As conscientious citizens, we bear the responsibility of holding government officials accountable for their performance and obligations. When duties are not properly discharged, we must stand up for our rights and security. It is inevitable that government employees will be transferred, but we, as citizens, remain in our commu- nities. Consequently, it is of paramount importance that we monitor the actions of officials and ensure that they contribute to national advancement. Although we inhabit a nation where social injustice prevails and the disparity between impoverished and affluent segments of population continues to expand, civil servants must fulfil their responsibilities. They are not meant to be venerated.

Dr Ashraf Ali Jafrani
Sydney, Australia

Published in Dawn, November 6th, 2026