FIFTY years ago the government of Pakistan recognised culture as a basic factor in the development and evolution of national solidarity and joy of the masses (Dec 8).

The recommendation was made in a report submitted to the cabinet by Justice S.A. Rahman of the Supreme Court, who headed a 13-man committee on culture, art, sports and youth movement.

The committee brought out the fact that music, painting, folk culture and other fine arts were languishing for want of public patronage.

The government must have taken some steps to implement those recommendations.

But if seen in the light of the present scenario, which presents extremism, lack of tolerance and violent behaviour of society, it appears that not enough was done to solve the problem.

Plato’s book, The Republic, says: “For our guardians must grow up, not amid images of deformity which will gradually poison and corrupt their souls, but in a land of health and beauty where they will drink in from every object sweet and harmonious influences”.

Justice S. A. Rahman’s committee had presented an excellent solution to a number of social problems faced by Pakistani society, which also suggests that our elders were fully aware of the consequences of neglecting art and culture.

I request all the public and private organisations concerned to do their best to promote music, painting, folk art and folk music, and other fine arts to get rid of the current wave of extremism, terrorism and lack of tolerance.

SIKANDER AQEEL ANSARI Islamabad