MIDDLE-CLASS MORALITY: The practice of double standards in our lives in the name of religion happens to be in sharp contrast to the true spirit of the religion. While women empowerment is a buzzword, it is ironic that women themselves happen to be a hurdle in the way of progress on this critical front. The protagonists of women’s rights often employ poor housemaids on paltry wages, deprive them of their rightful holidays, and do not give them any overtime. These maids are humiliated, exploited and at times even subjected to harassment and violence. Also, the girls working at shopping and food outlets come to the workplace all covered up, but then change into Western attire that is a job requirement. They do this because their families and neighbours do not feel comfortable. Should we call it a case of middle-class morality?

Khayyam Durrani
Karachi

GENDER DISCRIMINATION: Many young candidates, especially boys, applying for a job in the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) often make multiple attempts, but they soon become ineligible as the age limit is 26 years. On the other hand, candidates hailing from tribal/hard areas are eligible for age relaxation. Besides, female candidates already enjoy up to three years of age relaxation. Such a policy frustrates the male applicants. The SBP should rethink and revise the age relaxation policy to ensure fair and equal opportunities to empower male candidates nationwide.

Haider Abbas
Hyderabad

UPGRADE TO HIGH SCHOOL: The Government Boys Elementary School, Bughia Muhalla, in Khairpur Nathan Shah has seen a tremendous rise in the number of students enrolled. As such, the school now needs planned expansion to cater to the needs of all its students in every sense of the word, including the critical student-teacher ratio. The relevant authorities should also consider upgrading the facility to a high school status as soon as possible.

Farhan Khan
Dadu

Published in Dawn, May 15th, 2024