LAHORE (AFTAB AFZAL RANJHA): If a strong industrial-base ensures welfare of the people, a strong political system guarantees a conducive environment for the industrial growth. However, in Pakistan, if we go one step ahead towards economic well-being, we take two steps back towards political disaster and this vicious circle has been going on in the country since independence.
The current Azadi march of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan and Inqilab march led by Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) chief Dr Tahirul Qadri have brought the trade and industrial activities to a grinding halt. It is also unfortunate to note that Khan, who is a leader of a major political party in the country, has failed to differentiate between government and the state. The governments come and go as the ruling party of today can be the opposition party of tomorrow and the opposition party of today can be the ruling party of tomorrow, but the state remains the same. Khan should know that income tax, customs duties, and other revenues generated through various means go straight to the national exchequer. The revenue is the state property and it has nothing to do with the government.
However, Khan and Qadri should not be solely held responsible for the current situation as the government does have its share of follies in the worsening political situation. Khan was demanding recounting in only four constituencies and heaven would not have fallen if his demand was accepted. But the hawks sitting on the other side of the fence criminally ignored his demand – rather they had tried to worsen the situation by issuing fiery statements against Khan.
Apparently, Khan and Qadri may have different agenda, but one thing is clear that they want to drag the army in the matter. However, the army does not want to interfere in the political affairs which is evident in a statement issued by Maj Gen Asim Bajwa, the director general of the Inter-Services Public Relations. Bajwa has advised the politicians to resolve the matter through a meaningful dialogue. It will be plausible if political issues are resolved politically and in the current situation, all the parties concerned must take this point in mind while treading on the tight rope of politics. However, a major responsibility lies on the shoulders of the government – that is to take an initiative and bring Khan and Qadri to the negotiating table. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif should also stop the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz leaders from issuing unnecessary statements which serve no good but only add fuel to fire.
The business community always wants peace, security and political stability for the safety of their businesses, therefore, sooner the crisis is resolved the better.
