MALALA day was observed on Nov 10 all over the world under the auspices of the UN, including Pakistan.

Unluckily, Pakistan’s civil society and political parties have not befittingly responded to the UN call to observe the Malala day with vigour and commitment to show their unity with Malala.

Civil society and political parties should have held walks or other awareness programmes. This probably should have given a clear message to the extremists that as a nation we are united and disown their inhuman acts once for all.

Meanwhile, the government rather giving sweeping statements should also have announced an annual national award in the name of Malala for courage. It should also have given a clear road map for the promotion of girls’ education in Pakistan in general and `in tribal belt in particular.

The civil society, political parties and the government should consider this incident as a tip off and make it part and parcel of their programs and manifestos to discourage the extremism in all its modes and forms, and promote the culture of tolerance and harmony in the country, which is the need of time. NISAR RASOOL Nawabshah