Daily Times

Sir: A lot of people, particularly media personnel and political analysts, are talking about a revolution in Pakistan. They are saying that the conditions here are pretty similar to those of Egypt and Libya, i.e. rising inflation, unemployment and a weak security situation. Even though there are similarities, a very big difference is the great divide that exists in our society. This divide, based on ethnicity or sects, is deep rooted and is very hard to tackle. As a matter of fact, these differences are highlighted purposely for politics. Rallies in favour of the blasphemy laws provide a reason for these analysts to predict that all the different sects have come to a common ground to protect the law. Unfortunately, these rallies are also to show off the power that the religious parties hold. Issues that need immediate solutions are never addressed. Instead, secondary issues are highlighted by exploiting the religious beliefs of the general population. So talk of a revolution at this point in time seems dubious.

SHER ZAMAN

Islamabad