|
Media braves death, threats to defend Pakistan
July 22, 2011
Pakistan and its security forces have been facing suicide attacks, bomb blasts, sectarian violence and target killings coupled with intermittent skirmishes with militants since the launch of the US-led war against terror around 10 years ago. Hundreds of troops and policemen have lost their life in this war to rid the country of the scourge of terrorists and make the entire world a haven of peace.
Sometimes I think: is Pakistan going to be a failed state? Every day terrorist attacks result in the death of our security forces’ personnel, common citizens and journalists. According to a report, 45,000 people lost their life during various incidents of terrorism. Around 13,500 security personnel laid their lives in their effort to curtail terrorism. The world is making progress day-by-day while Pakistan is in a thick soup with its debilitating economy hindering its march towards economic independence and prosperity.
The media is the only ray of hope that promises the people of Pakistan a better and secure future. Due to such activities, terrorists are targeting journalists. Pakistan is one of the most dangerous countries for journalists. Around 50 media persons have lost their life at the hands of terrorists while performing their professional responsibilities. An active and vigilant media made people cautious which schools would serve better for their children’s future. Parents are admitting their children in the schools where Islamic education is being imparted in real sense.
Now the question is where is the role in the war against terrorism and insurgency leading us to? We don’t know who is funding these terrorists. In Sri Lanka, Tamil Tigers had some demands and policies. Since both the government and the nation knew the way out they got rid of the war. But here in Pakistan uncovering the terrorists’ agenda would help the common people to break their bond with them. For this purpose, Pakistan and world powers must devise a plan to uproot insurgency and terrorism in this country.
Foreign hands are aiding and abetting terrorist activities in Pakistan. Journalists, especially are facing life threats with fear of being killed always stalking them. Job insecurities have been a serious threat to their survival. If a journalist manages to adjust to these threats, then he suffers from heart attack or high blood pressure. Whenever they raise their voice for a modest increase in their salaries, the government pressurizes them by supporting their employers. Economic trouble is the biggest disincentive to journalists with the intelligence agencies and government always on the lookout to give them a tough time.
|