Sir: The recent All Parties Conference (APC), which underlined the need for peace talks with the Taliban to curtail the surge of violence in the country, seems to have been meaningless. This was convivial on the part of the government as they initiated and offered peace talks to the Taliban, a move that was also welcomed by them. The media also kept highlighting the demands of the Taliban, which they presented as a precondition for the talks. Everyone was looking for a positive outcome but, like every time, before proceeding towards a solution, the Taliban shocked the government once again. Hopes for peace are now diminishing with more violations by the Taliban as what they did in Upper Dir resulted in the martyrdom of Major General Sanaullah Niazi. This incident has intensified debate in every circle and on the media as well about the fate of the dialogue process now. It is a heinous act on the part of the Taliban after the offer of peace talks by the government. After this incident, a stern response from our politicians is missing, which is beyond understanding for anyone with common sense. Contrary to this, the army chief has said that peace must be given a chance through the political process but no one should have any misgivings about us letting terrorists coerce us into accepting their terms. Everyone wants peace and stability but not at the cost of dictation by those who are the cause of the tumult and chaos in society. Can we ignore this mayhem at the cost of the peace talks? We need to develop a broader consensus where one should rationally analyse the prevailing situation, keeping in mind the outcome of these talks. SOBIA AMIR Islamabad