Letters

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Theatre of the absurd

Sir: The flag-lowering ceremony at Wagah the joint checkpost is getting increasing coverage in the electronic media since the recent statements emanating from Pakistan and India. Scenes from the ceremony are flashed on television each time there is a story about the current thaw in the relations of the two countries.

However, the display of fake hostility that Pakistan’s Rangers and India’s Border Security Force indulge in continues. They stamp their feet and slam the gates shut with cosmetic rage. All this is repulsive to say the least. The absurdity of the situation is further exacerbated by the ‘patriotic’ chanting of the civilian onlookers on both sides of the border.

What is it that the two countries are trying to project with this daily display of hostility? After the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, we know that such ‘Sultan Rahi’-like demonstrations of masculinity mean nothing in the 21st century. Even a delicate and finely manicured fingertip can blow the smithereens out of any mustachioed ‘jawan’ of the Rangers or the BSF.

As a first step towards reducing tensions between Pakistan and India, let us get rid of this absurd show of aggression at the Joint Check Post at Wagah that takes place at sunset everyday. The Rangers and BSF personnel at the Joint Check Post can be better utilised elsewhere.
KHALID HYDER
Islamabad

Firmly around each other’s throats

Sir: It is said that history repeats itself. It seems as if this saying was coined keeping the subcontinent in mind.

A little while ago, there was a ray of hope that the leaders of India and Pakistan might initiate a dialogue with each other. But before we could finish celebrating, the Indian Prime Minister A B Vajpayee stated that he would not meet General Pervez Musharraf. This was followed by a statement from George Fernandez who said that India would not hold talks with Pakistan in the near future.

“Let the end of all striving
Be the peace that love promotes
With our hands in perfect friendship
Firmly around each other’s throats
(Roger Woddis, 1984)
So what else is new?
MK RASHEED
Islamabad

The losing spree continues

Sir: The cricket final of the Triangular series played between New Zealand and Pakistan in Sri Lanka was a disappointing show altogether. Not surprisingly, Pakistan lost its first two wickets very early on.

The middle order batting did well until Younis Khan came to the pitch. He sacrificed four wickets with his careless batting. Razzaq was doing well when he lost his wicket trying to grab an extra run. The last over by Tuffey claimed two wickets — Shabbir and Kaneria.

The PCB selectors should watch the recordings of this match and warn Younis Khan not to play a selfish game. We need bold team players and not individuals who play against each other.
MOHAMMAD AZHAR KHWAJA
Via E mail

Regime change in Iran

Sir: Both Iran and Pakistan have conflicting interests in the former Soviet Muslim republics and Afghanistan. While some may consider regime change in Iran US imperialism, it could prove beneficial for Pakistan.

The change of regime in Iran would get rid of a government that is not very close to Pakistan. A new government may also backtrack on the defence pact recently signed by Iran and India. Regime change in Iran would be a blow to India.

Pakistan should support regime change. The growth of the Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO formerly knows as the Regional Cooperation for Development RCD) depends on a pro-Pakistani government in Iran.
MOIN ANSARI
Via E mail

“Patience”, my fellow countrymen

Sir: Prime Minister Zafarullah Jamali has ordered a fleet of Mercedes cars for himself and his minions. He is also considering one of the seven PIA 737-300 aircrafts for his personal use. At the same time his “boss” tells the poverty ridden people of this country to be “patient”.
A MUJTABA
Via Email

True voice of the people

Sir: Unlike other newspapers, Daily Times actually is “the true voice of the people”. The entire approach of the newspaper, including its news stories and editorials is unbiased. This is vital for a newspaper.
ALI
Islamabad

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