Rehman Malik tops 2011 ‘Hall of Shame’
Be it Veena Malik, Shoaib Malik, or Rehman Malik, there is one thing I have realized; it’s not easy being a Malik in Pakistan.
The Maliks of Pakistan are forever surrounded by controversies. Despite stiff competition amongst politicians and artists who struggled to top the “hall of shame, 2011,” guess who has managed to secure the first position once again? Our very own, very dear, very entertaining, Dr Abdul Rehman Malik. To acknowledge his outstanding performance, he has even been awarded a PhD degree by the Syndicate of Karachi University in recognition of his “matchless services to the country.”
Some of his golden words uttered during the year 2011, that range from outlandish to hilarious, are listed as follows:
1) Statement: “If someone insulted Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), I, too, would shoot him”.
Event: On the assassination of Salmaan Taseer. The government responds in a way the authorities are supposed to: by promising the laws would stand, but Rehman Malik comes up with this bizarre statement instead.
Look my dear friend, who knows one fine day some Qadri pops out of my convoy and kill me for XYZ reason under the garb of blasphemy law, would any media man come to rescue me?
2) Statement: “I am thankful to the Taliban who did not carry out any attack on Shia Muslims and showed respect to their rituals.”
Event: During the event of Ashura, Rehman Malik passed another shocking statement to the media. He actually thanked the Taliban for not attacking Shia processions! And no, he did not stop there. Rehman went on to say that he had appealed to the Taliban, asking them to spare the processions of Shia Muslims, and that he was grateful that they responded positively to his appeal.
My friend, we must not pass sweeping statements on Taleban, like us they are human too. Shouldn’t we thank them for sparing us for at least one day, isn’t it a good deed?
3) Statement: ”The Tablighi missionary centre in Raiwaind is the breeding ground for extremism and terrorism in Pakistan as the centre has a major role in brainwashing the extremists.”
Event: Rehman Malik made this statement to the audience at the security think-tank International Institute of Strategic Studies (IISS) while speaking on the topic of ”Countering Extremism in South Asia’.
You need to watch movie “Khuda Kay Liye” and listen to Naseeruddin Shah closely, he says “Islam main Darhi hai, Darhi main Islam nahin”, now try to figure out what I mean.
4) Statement: ”If Google and Youtube do not help the Pakistan government, then Pakistan reserves the right to block these services to prevent terrorists from using it”.
Event: The Interior Minister when talking to the media at the FIA headquarters, urged the internet service providers to extend their help to the government for exterminating the menace of terrorism from the country.
I have warned Government of Googlistan and Republic of Youtube to cooperate with Pakistan at their best and they have agreed to keep a strict eye on terrorists using their web space to disrupt Pakistani soil. We will not spare them.
5) Statement: ”I had given a warning yesterday that there should be no match-fixing. This time I am watching it very closely. If any such thing happens we will take action”.
Event: Before the World Cup semi-final against India, Pakistani cricketers were warned beforehand not to indulge in any match-fixing by the Interior Minister Rehman Malik who said he was keeping a “close watch” on their activities.
My every statement has a philosophy behind it; we kept a close eye to watch players and didn’t let them match fix. They win, lose or even play under pressure due to my policing is not my headache. I want results.
6) Statement: “PML-N had embraced Osama bin Laden and was responsible for bringing Osama bin Laden from Egypt to Pakistan for his treatment”.
Event: Speaking at the National Assembly, Malik denied opposition leader Chaudhry Nisar’s claim that the government was sleeping while the US operation was carried out. He lashed out at PML-N for bringing Bin Laden to Pakistan.
All of you talk about 100 suitcases Nawaz Shareef brought to Saudi Arabia but forgets what he brought from there; Osama Bin Laden was packed in one of those suitcases, I will tell you the whole story at the “right time”.
7) Statement: ”Extortionists should quit extorting and leave the city”.
Event: Talking to the media after addressing a ceremony held at the Karachi Chamber of Commerce, Interior Minister Rehman Malik warned the extortionists and target killers to quit and leave Karachi else stern action will be taken against them. I bet they were scared.
Stupid warnings always work in my case; good extortionists would listen to me and leave the city, while “bad apples” will be left with no option but to disappear as well.
8) Statement: ”When it is reported that 100 people were killed due to target killing, investigations reveal that only 30 were its victims while 70 others died at the hands of their wives or girlfriends.”
Event: During the press conference in Quetta, when target killings were on an all time high in Karachi, the Interior Minister said that the reported figure of deaths due to target killing were not accurate because half the men were killed by the women in their lives. Now that’s some imagination Mr Malik has there. Too many action-thriller films I would say.
Along with Interior ministry I am given a task to handle “internal affair ministry” as well.
9) Statement: “They were wearing black clothes like in Star Wars movies, (one) with (a) suicide vest. They had small beards and two of them were between 20-22 years old while the third who blew himself up was about 25.”
Event: This classic comment erupted from Malik’s mouth when he was talking to the media after the PNS Mehran attack. Our dear Interior Minister came up with another bizarre analogy and compared terrorists’ outfits to Star Wars characters. Told you he was into action flicks and stuff.
One of your private Tv channels portrays me as Chulbul Malik but I proved them I am a Starwars Freak.
10) Statement: “All ground intelligence shows that Ilyas Kashmiri is dead. What I can say is that there is a 98 % chance he is dead”.
Event: Interior Minister Rehman Malik told the media that although he had no physical proof, he was ’98 % sure’ that senior al Qaeda operative Ilyas Kashmiri was killed in a US drone strike in South Waziristan. Let’s add clairvoyance to his list of countless other outstanding traits, shall we?
You won’t ever see me boasting about percentages or issuing loose statements.Can’t do much about this, I am a Maths Man too.
Life was never this Good
Yet again 26th December came, I expected just another birthday another set of stereotype greetings and the day would pass but contrary to my expectations it turned out to be an unforgettable experience for me.
I never knew that the next Government which is due to take charge in July 2012 (I.A) would give its comprehensive plan regarding birthday celebrations and other upcoming events.
I was strictly ordered to start following the guidelines issued by the ‘establishment’.
The would-be Prime Minister planned to give me special protocol between 23rd to 26th December. This time I didn’t need to sneak chocolates of my brother nor had to stay without gifts since everything was ready for me.
Celebrations included an official visit to Port grand, a detailed conversation regarding the event and many gifts including a stylish chronograph to keep punctuality ensured, a beautiful and fresh bouquet of flowers and a birthday souvenir in quite fantastic packing were handed over to me.
I admit the 3 day protocol was one of the best moments of my birthday, before this, 26th December was referred as Tsunami day but now things have changed. Post Tsunami regime has gone and I am full of life.
Thanks indeed for making it such a wonderful day for me!
Vowing to Destroy America
On 30th November the Pakistan Tehreek-e- Insaaf women wing lodged a protest in front of Karachi Press Club against NATO attack on Pakistani troops. According to a press release published on the PTI website, the protest was attended by “more than two hundred party workers”. The press release further claim that PTI protesters were carrying Pakistan’s national, PTI flags and chanted “Go America Go” and “Go NATO Go” slogans.
Personally I believe it’s a good omen that all parties are on the same page when it came to lodge protest against NATO’s unwarranted attack on Pakistani soil.
Earlier MQM decided to hold a demonstration for expressing solidarity against attacks and decided to put up the national flag at the houses, buildings, and other public places in order to express complete solidarity for the sake of national security and honor. Likewise the Jamat e Islami, Sunni Tehreek, Pakistan Muslim N, Q and APML held separate demonstrations in different cities.
Since Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf is one of the emerging parties in the field of politics, I decided to browse the PTI website to check demonstration highlights to comprehend their exact stance on war against terrorism, America and the recent NATO attack in Mohammand Agency (Salala Check post).
Much to my surprise the party’s take in the official press release seemed to be contradictory to the exercise done in the name of protest against NATO’s airstrike on Pakistani soil. A couple of clearly visible slogans on the placards and banners against “American Nation” and the Pakistan People’s party were quite visible, one of the awkward sogan was:
Kal Roos Bikhartay Dekha tha, Ab Amreeka Tot’ta dekhengay
Hum Barqe Jihad Kay Sholon say, Amreeka Jalta dekhen gey
Above take by the PTI workers cannot be the party’s official stance since Kaptaan has always denied being Anti American on the media but this particular catchphrase as well as the rhetorical criticism on Government especially during the time when nation is united against the NATO’s strike on Pakistani troops brings PTI in right wingers camp who instead of dreaming to compete US economically often seen urging to destroy the super power by mere anthems.
A few people with only one Pakistani flags vowing to destroy America in no way depict the progressive manifesto of a political party. The PTI leadership needs to come up with its clear stance on foreign policy and especially with the future relationship with America.
Contradictions in the PTI protest pictures and its official press release published on the website is very much linked with the hesitant Imran Khan who recently in an interview conveniently ignored the question when asked whether he’s Taliban Khan, Inqilab Khan, slave of US, Europe or a party of Jewish lobby.
The interview might have taken in the lighter vein but it’s high time for Imran Khan to at least educate those 50 odd people who gathered to show solidarity with the Pakistani forces in Karachi and ended up on “Go Amreeka Go slogans”.
Published at http://blogs.thenews.com.pk/blogs/2011/12/18/1217/
Dual Standards
Wonder how the US law works, on one hand their superior courts jail Michael Jackson’s doctor Conrad Murray for committing “involuntary manslaughter” but on the other hand their judiciary stays silent on state’s bloody and devastating assaults across the world all in the name of Washington’s so-called ‘global war on terror’.
The Beauty of a Slap
“Did you hear the echo of slap?” (Is thappar ki goonj suni tumnay ?) was the famous dialogue of Bollywood hit “Karma” when Jailer Vishwa Pratab Singh (Dilip Kumar) slaps captured terrorist Dr. Dang (Anupam Kher).
Following the same fashion Sharad Pawar, the president of the India’s Nationalist Congress Party serves as India’s Minister of Agriculture and the President of International Cricket Council was slapped by a youth named Harvinder Singh after attending a literary function. Pawar is said to be one of the most corrupt politicians in India but all leading political parties in India “apparently” condemned the slap.
On the other hand Harvinder Singh received an enormous amount of appreciation from the commoners. The commentators on Youtube, Facebook, Twitter and various forums made clear in a quite candid manner, that the resonance of “Pawar-full” slap was the need of time which needs to be exercised on corrupt politicians after frequent intervals.
People from all walks of life endorse the slap and call It a desire of masses for swift accountability against all those politicians who while in power – poison the nation by their massive corruption and kick backs.
Earlier incidents of shoe throwing were taken place in Australia, India, Ireland, Israel, Hong Kong, the United Kingdom, Arab World and Pakistan.
Whether the shoe throwing or slaps make difference to political figures or not but they definitely provide a sigh of relief to the attackers as well the “Janta” infected by the corruption and bad governance of politicians.
As far as Pakistani politicians are concerned they seem to be indifferent on Slapgate scandal due to the fact that they are enough experienced of countering shoe missile either during lectures or confronting verbal insults on electronic media — perhaps this is the reason they consider it a routine practice and tolerate such behavior from critiques “in the name of democracy”.
The shoe story seems to have no end; George W. Bush, Asif Ali Zardari, Parvez Musharaff was also targeted with shoe. Indian Home Minister P Chidambram and Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao, too have been the part of this humiliating shoe shower when they made public appearances.
Slap, a more powerful and precise weapon than the shoe
Sometimes when shoe doesn’t hit Pakistanis leaders, their party followers call it a disgrace of shoe that could not avail an opportunity to touch the honorable dignitary — whatever the excuse is, now the slapgate scandal has shown protestors a new way to lodge remonstration against corrupt politicians.
The beauty of slap could be recognized in a way that it precisely hits the target unlike shoe missile that has more symbolic value than the physical. Though the smashing slap on Pawar’s face may seem to be an indecent act towards an elderly person, it is more of a psychological blow to the entire political fraternity, who have played with the emotions and tolerance of the public and carried on with their gobbledygook for several years.
Feudocracy wins: local bodies system dissolved
The seizure of City District Government Karachi (CDGK) accounts by the Sindh government pounded the last nail in the coffin of Karachi’s golden era. With the implementation of commissionerate system, all commissioners and District Coordination Officers will now have unlimited power to manage the affairs of the city. The announcement of restoring the colonial style of governance in 21st century has left many Karachiites shocked.
Generally when governments depart, they halt new projects fearing credit-sharing. However, the former Karachi mayor, even at the time of leaving his post, made sure that the numerous projects initiated during his tenure continue in due course. By his action, he had proved himself to be the “Miracle Man”, who turned a messed up city into a truly beautiful megacity.
During his 52-month-long tenure (1,560 days), 2,159 mega projects, each worth Rs 30 million to multiple billions, were completed. Besides, 337 big machines and logistics meant for various amenity works were also purchased.
For the very first time not only the master plan of the city was prepared and given a legal status in the history, but the CDGK also completed 35 flyovers and underpasses; 356 parks; 194 water and sanitation projects; 316 major and supplementary roads and 451 educational projects. As many as 110 projects were completed in rural areas. In the transport infrastructure, 255 bus stops and 116 pedestrian bridges and a big car parking plaza were completed.
On the other hand the tried, tested and failed commissionerate system which openly negates democracy to promote toadies, would reintroduce the monopoly of privileged class over the politics of the country. Interestingly this system is in no way functional in any of the country of the world.
The people of Pakistan, especially in Karachi, have already witnessed what wonders local bodies system brought for them. It was the way for efficiently resolving the problems of the people at the lowest level, the system that had empowered the people who could easily access their representatives whenever they wanted. The commissionerate system in contrast would build up the bureaucratic infrastructure and further ruin the lives of commoners.
The ruling party had comparatively an easier way to provide relief to the people of Sindh by continuing the successful local bodies system. People might have ignored the shortcomings of government if they were educated about the system that ensures betterment of their lifestyle.
It is a time when the nation is being dragged back to the Stone Age. The media should bring the advocates of the commissionerate system to debates and ask them why the system engineered by the British does not even exist in the UK anymore. Anchorpersons should ignite a debate to educate masses about the benefits of the local bodies system and how it delivered.
Indeed the local bodies system was introduced by a dictator, but the people of Pakistan extracted maximum benefit out of it and this is what “true democracy” is all about.
The Op-ed of “Pakistan Today“
While the President munches Popcorns
Habib Jalib must be turning in his grave at the recent brouhaha of Shahbaz Sharif’s rhetoric and his poetic embarrassment in an uncalled for rally against President Zardari.
This same address conveniently ignored corruption charges, bad governance and lawlessness in the very Punjab government headed by the Khadim-e-Aala in disguise.
It is no secret that the current People’s Party regime has not lived up to expectations. However, claiming to hang the President of a democratically elected government in the presence of free judiciary just goes to show the restlessness of the PML-N for their promised turn following after the current regime.
What the Chief Minister of Punjab uttered in the rally against President Zardari is hypocritical to say in the least as the same corruption and bad governance model can be witnessed in Punjab too, where dengue is still at large. Moreover, lady health workers protesting against non-payment of their salaries, mismanagement in railway employees pension, and the violent agitation by the students in the online result fiasco are some of the clear cut indicators of what the Sharifs are up to.
On the other hand, Pakistan Tehreek e Insaaf’s rally showcased around approximately 100,000 people, including youngsters who were hoping for a changing Pakistan. The growing rift between the PTI and PML-N in Punjab is setting new trends of political boasting in the province.
The power hungry politicians, instead of conducting a decent round table conference to provide a solution to the people of Pakistan are impatiently looking for the power base of Islamabad.
So far President Zardari’s politics are considered to be smart. His strategy of reconciliation with the MQM, ANP and PML-Q has successfully helped him secure the President house and quite likely another tenure as well.
The sudden jump of the MQM into the PML-N vs PTI tournament has given a new attraction to TV channels and political enthusiasts of this unfortunate nation. Last weekend, the nation was all set to witness the beginning of a series of rallies and protests on non-issues that actually proved the seriousness of our leaders towards the prosperity of Pakistan.
However the consequences of the political circus in Pakistan and the fight for proving ‘our political show has a larger crowd than yours’ caused systematic frustration in the sensible lot of Pakistanis. In such circumstances a Pakistani with even with a bit of eminence has lost the charm he/she once had in the Pakistani nation. It goes thus, that they would feel no urgency in voting for any politician with the hope of change, since they all seem to be equally petty and childish. Surely we can all agree that current politics is no basis for real enthusiasm.
Unless the people of Pakistan stand up by themselves under the non-political entities and march for their rights towards a just cause, we won’t witness any change at all, since the most shrewd man of this country has brought our politicians at each other’s throats while he’s munching pop corn in the safety of the President house.
Release of Gilad Shalit: Wisdom behind 1 for 1000
With the release of Israeli Soldier Gilad Shalit, the longest media campaign in recent Israeli history has finally come to an end.
Apparently it’s quite an odd deal, the prisoner swap between Hamas and the Israeli government that returns Gilad Shalit to his family and more than 1,000 Palestinian prisoners to theirs. Something that put world at large in a state of surprise when they witnessed release of Gilad Shalit, an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldier, On 25 June 2006, abducted by Hamas militants in a cross-border raid via underground tunnels near the border with Gaza and held for over five years, until he was released on 18 October 2011 in exchange for over 1,000 Palestinian convicted prisoners (by Israeli courts) of multiple murders and carrying out terror attacks against Israeli civilians.
It must be a difficult day for Israeli Government to release thousands of Palestinian captives against a single soldier – on the one hand people of Israel and Gilad’s family celebrating his return, setting up ceremonies for the guy who spent over 1900 days in the captivity with no communication to his family, not the one shred of evidence to his well being was provided to them but the same time it was a great deal of concerned for Israeli authorities to release more than 500 prisoners in one day (as part of the deal– 550 yet to be released in two months times) yet the main issue comes up that is Israeli life more important than Palestinian’s. What made Israel negotiate with the Hamas as Israel do not negotiate with the organization who it perceives as terrorist but in Gillad’s case the Israeli Government was found in a very unique position. It not only negotiated with organization like Hammas but had to release a huge number of Palestinian prisoners which has again put the Israel’s security at risk.
The deal is widely viewed by the emotionally charged Islamic world as a victory for Hamas and Muslims in general but the price Israeli Government has paid in the release of Gillad Shalit is in no way overpaid. Shalit who was in the captivity of Hamas for last 5 years became the son of not only Shalits family but also the entire nation.
Since the inception of Israel it always was and still is the nation in uniform.
The entire Israeli nation is recruited to the effort of self defense and to protect one another and in this particular context the Israeli Government chalked out a smart strategy to incite more faith and loyalty of Israelis towards their nation, it is extremely important for Israeli establishment to convey to every Israeli citizen, every mother, every father of a teenager who soon becomes a soldier that Israeli Government do its utmost and everything within its parameters to ensure that there is always a chance to bring its soldiers back home safe and will do to make that happen every time – something that will restore confidence of Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). This is an overarching message about the entire endeavor that Israeli Prime minister has successfully managed to instill in the hearts and minds of Israelis to materialize nation’s long term agenda.
A Minute full of Nonsense
Do you know consumption of food with pork ingredients deteriorate heart? A scientific research has recently revealed the fact that anything that contains pork powder weakens heart. Why Jew people are cowards, because they consume pork. A Chemist was enlightening the bearded young man at Pharmacy when I reached there to get my father’s medicine.
If it is so then why are you selling Lays chips? Lays also contain pork extracts. Bearded young man inquired.
Oh Lays! people come to me and ask for it, it’s my duty to offer them whatever they want, said pharmacist. He further added that, we used to go abroad to see “Angrez” but just now you saw an American lady walking on the street. See Obama is coming — America preparing to attack us…
With smiles on my face I took medicine and left the shop keeping in mind that pork is prohibited in Judaism, if Jews were cowards they would not have put fear of little Israel into entire oil rich Arab world –but I was in no mood to waste my time with these morons. They are sick!
Such a disappointing situation for the poor country created on the basis of “Two of Nation” theory, in next few years I foresee further rise of religious fanaticism in Pakistan.
These 60 seconds reveal a bleak but true picture of Pakistan, if a common Pakistani and that too from Karachi think on such lines what would a cleric in Waziristan would be teaching to his madarsah students.
Think about it!
Let’s play: 20 questions for Zulfiqar Mirza
Sindh’s former home minister Zulfiqar Mirza has announced his resignation from the government in yet another media circus.
During TV interviews he made personal attacks against journalists and politicians, making references to their facial features and appearance. However, his emotional outburst left lots of questions on the policy of the government unanswered.
A few questions I would like to ask Mr Mirza are:
1) If you claim to be so truthful, why have you never made these revelations before?
2) According to you, Rehman Malik does everything on the discretion of President Asif Ali Zardari. Why then is Rehman Malik accused of conspiring against the People’s Party and not President Zardari?
3) Is the president of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari a fool to not understand the shrewdness of Rehman Malik?
4) Mirza Sahab, why did you never raise your voice in 2001 (or afterwards) when you got to know that MQM chief Altaf Hussain wrote a letter against the ISI?
5) What exactly made you speak up after the discovery of the torture cells and ammunition from Lyari?
6) You acknowledge that Rehman Malik is a “good politician and a good human being” but maintain that he is also a compulsive liar. What does this mean?
7) You placed the Holy Quran on your head and said that MQM has a false mandate in Karachi and Hyderabad. How many petitions have you filed in court about this?
8.) Why are superior courts, Pakistani forces and Pakistani law enforcement agencies not taking any action on the MQM’s alleged crimes? Is the MQM really that powerful?
9) CPLC recovered most of the kidnapped people from Lyari. Is this the reason why the CPLC chief, Ahmed Chinoy, has suddenly turned into a villain?
10) You seem to be very worried about the people of Sindh. Why are you obsessed with Karachi only? Has karo-kari, dacoity and corruption ended in interior Sindh?
11) How come you know “ALL” the killers except Benazir’s ?
12) You say that you will fight against the criminal elements of Karachi in your private capacity. Is this legal?
13) Keeping in mind that a civilian cannot take the law into his own hands, how would you decide who is a criminal and who is not?
14) You claim that you haven’t recruited any MQM worker in the Sindh Police, and that recruitment in the police department was done on merit only. If this is so, then why does corruption and incompetency still prevail in the Sindh Police?
15) Why are the ISI chief and Army Generals not taking action on your “substantiated evidence”?
16) When are you going to the Supreme Court to submit this evidence?
17) How exactly have President Asif Zardari and the late Benazir Bhutto helped you in acquiring such a huge amount of money, villas, cars, sugar mills and thousands of acres of lands?
18) You alleged that during a meeting in London, the MQM chief Altaf Hussain had told you that America and other world powers had decided to ‘break’ Pakistan, and that Altaf Hussain had supported their idea. Since when has Altaf Hussain started sharing such secrets with you?
19) If America wants to break Pakistan up, according to you, then why did you go to the enemy country for a 40-day vacation?
20) Sir, do you still stand by your slogan “Pakistan na Khappay” (We don’t want Pakistan)?
Dr. Trapped
If Delhi Belly were made in Lollywood, our former State Minister for Religious Affairs Dr. Aamir Liaquat Hussain
would definitely be a central character of the movie not because of his filmy appearance but his recent display of abusive language close to the dialogues of controversial Delhi Belly which has offended a large section of his audience
A Youtube video has just surfaced which has selected clips of Dr Aamir Liaquat Hussain using profanity off-air. I was at work when my colleague excitedly asked me whether I watched Hussain’s controversial video of behind the scenes excerpted from various programs using vulgar language at different moments of his show recordings. I then watched the video which was indeed in very bad taste, my first reaction after watching his “Kaarnaama” was “Yet again poor Dr. Trapped” because unlike many viewers I was in no shock when I watched him hurling abuses and insults even towards the scholars as he’s famous for being “jolly” on the sets.
The video quickly became viral attracting thousands of views in hours resulted prompt reaction from Hussain to talk about the viral phenomenon the next day in his program and on Twitter, calling it fake, he smartly thrown blame to the Anti Islamic elements that are against promoting love for the Prophet PBUH to malign his credibility. In another attempt to defend himself he hit the nerves of critiques and claimed this campaign was supported by those who do not believe in the Finality of the Prophethood but in vain since the video is still spreading like a wild fire on different social media websites.
Personally I have no sympathy with Hussain nor I am against him, Aamir Liaquat Hussain’s career has been plagued with controversies and accusations but every time like a political personality he successfully manages to get rid of them and continue to enhance his ratings, he has played a pivotal role in converting Starplus audience towards his religious programs. His innovative style of anchoring Islamic programs is quite famous among majority of Pakistani women although he has never declared himself a scholar — only worked as a moderator and a Naat Khwan.
Whatever Aamir Liaquat Hussain has done was of course not something to be appreciated but in my opinion it was his personal act just like politicians and celebrities are often caught by paparazzis in same manner however the bigger concern for me are those religious personalities who were smiling and enjoying the filthy remarks Hussain was uttering towards other Islamic sects. As a reaction shall we expect a boycott from those Ulema’s who supposedly sit in his programs to promote sectarian harmony?
Hussain’s video is an eye opener for many of us. His fans might have been hurt by his questionable behavior but its high time for Pakistanis to learn to differ between good and evil.
It’s not only Aamir Liaquat Hussain who is not what we see him on Tv but this country is filled with those pseudo intellectuals, religious and political personalities who are no different than the Doctor.
God has blessed us with brains we need not to believe everyone blindly but spend ample time in research on Islamic issues in the light of Hadith and Quran as a primary source of information.
Weapon of Mass Distraction
The newly appointed Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar (35) has not only become the youngest Foreign Minister of any country in the world. She graduated with a B.Sc. (Hons) from Lahore University of Management Sciences in 1999 and received her M.Sc in Hospitality Management from the University of Massachusetts in 2001.
She served as the State Minister for Economic Affairs and Statistics in the cabinet of Yousaf Raza Gillani. On 13 June, 2009 she became the first woman to present a budget speech in the National Assembly.
The foreign minister is often regarded as the most senior ministerial position below that of the head of government (prime minister or president) .
Developed nations appoint most experienced and well versed FMs who lead their team while negotiating the most complicated foreign matters of their country. Their ministers know the art of diplomacy and have a firm command on handling foreign affairs.
Whether Ms. Khar is really competitive and experienced enough to run such a crucial ministry of an already troubled nuclear nation is still a question. We will witness what Ms. Khar has achieved during her visit to India besides enjoying media attention — IMHO her appointment as Foreign Minister raises doubts over Zardari’s seriousness when it comes to discussing Pakistan matters with the world specially when nothing seems to be going with the Pakistani nation.
I am still confused over the credentials she has been appointed to head such a vital portfolio.
As someone rightly tweeted
fotespeaks Dear Pakistanis, we do not hate beauty if we question HRK’s credentials. We just want to check what the heck is she bringing to the table?
Can she really outsmart brains like Bhutto, Kasuri, or Qureshi. I doubt that. What my gut feeling says HRK might remain in limelight due to her tasteful accessories-Roberto Cavalli sunglasses, over sized Hermes Birkin bag & classic pearl jewelry yet she won’t be able to perform what a nation can expect from its FM.
Although I am glad that we have been able to at least register Hina’s name in most youngest FM’s in the world record books.
Management
Management in all business and organizational activities is the act of getting people together to accomplish desired goals and objectives using available resources efficiently and effectively
Smooth sailing: Cable tv repair guys on duty to resolve customer complaints
Karachi: Instead of carrying long ladders on pick up van – we often come across Tv cable guys dragging their ladder by fixing one side of it on Motorbike leaving the other one on road creating unpleasant sound. Such practice saves their additional transportation cost.
However in this particular picture a comparatively sensible cable provider using his management skills has fixed his ladder behind its bike to avoid getting the ladder scratched on the road surface causing smooth and cost effective transportation of ladder on motorbike to different homes for cable Tv installation.
What’s wrong with Muslims ?
Couldn’t resist sharing the knowledgeable commentary of Pakistan’s renowned intellectual Mr. Hassan Nisar . Please listen to him carefully and understand the reasons behind failure of Muslims.
MV Suez Episode: A Blessing in Disguise
Crew of Egyptian-registered boat M.V. Suez who were held hostages by Somali pirates wave upon their arrival at the port city of Karachi. -AFP Photo
Unprecedented emotional scenes played out in Karachi on Thursday after the crew of the Egyptian ship MV Suez comprising Pakistanis, Indians and others hit the “land of pure” after being captured by Somalian pirates.
The heroes of the moment are Human Rights activist Ansar Burney, Pakistani Navy and Governor Sindh Ishrat ul Ibad Khan who through their determination and sincerity have turned impossible into possible.
Along with these persons it was actually the Pakistani media that not only initiated a campaign but kept a strong follow up on the developing story.
For the first time ever I have witnessed institutions of Pakistan through a well-coordinated effort have accomplished an objective. The NGO, Political Party, Pakistan Navy and the Media have done a marvelous job by pursuing an almost unachievable task that has helped nation rebuilding its soft image.
While watching the MV Suez News telecasted couple of month ago the only thing clicked into my mind was the role of political parties in this particular episode, I asked a question to myself whether the claimants of patriotism would ever get up to prove themselves although I never kept my hopes high since this issue needed to be handled by the Pakistani Armed forces and on Government level but to my surprise it was the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) that took notice of a little girl Laila’s appeal for saving her father and other crew members of the MV Suez that was captured by the pirates since 10 months.
As Pakistan is experiencing the worst form of governance in its history, its political forces, institutions and even judiciary are not performing upto the expectations of a common man yet the nation with full of potentials have shown its tendency to bounce back and resolved a highly sensitive issue without depending on any foreign aid.
The very example of MV Suez not only speaks volume about the general behavior of nation’s mindset but spread the message to the Pakistanis and world at large that the successful release of various nationals is a reflection of a broader and positive mentality of the entire Pakistani nation.
Now the world should reconsider its attitude towards Pakistan and accept it as a nation that has played a crucial role in fighting a war against terrorism on various fronts and in the struggle of achieving peace it has become a victim of terrorism.
As a Pakistani when I recall the entire MV Suez episode my trust on the heroes of my nation restores, it is also a lesson for the two big parties of Pakistan not to indulge in war of words but to come up with something concrete as it’s actually a job of Governments to show interest in International kidnapping cases and ensure release of their citizens.
I see the release of MV Suez hostages as blessing in disguise that has given us an opportunity to self reliance and think beyond caste, creed and color.
Pakistan Zindabad!
Bizarre Petitions
Pakistan is going through one of the worst periods of its history; our nation is engaged in watching current affairs programs and political talk shows which although become cause of raising blood pressure provide a sense of entertainment as well. The suitors might be emotional about their petitions but the audiences sitting in the court room definitely enjoy those cases. I have skimmed a few interesting petitions filed against celebrities that will help us understand social and religious fabric of this country.
JUI-S leaders demand ban on Bible
Petition: Addressing a press conference at the Masjid-e-Khizra, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (Samiul Haq) leader Maulana Abdul Rauf Farooqi and others appealed to the Supreme Court of Pakistan to take suo motu notice of the “blasphemous” materials added to the Bible otherwise they would move the court for banning the book, for which a panel of lawyers was already working.
A perfect example of Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world. Its growth now be experienced in Bible as well.
Petition to conduct Meera’s virginity test
Petition: Atiq ur Rehman in an application sought to conduct a test to determine whether Meera was a virgin.
Instead of convincing judiciary about his marriage, Atiq ur Rehman came up with a creative idea of testing Meera’s virginity. Although judge has declined the plea keeping the fact in mind that such test might open another Pandora box for Meera.
Petition filed againt Meera for performing in “immoral scenes”
Petition: The petition was filed against Meera in the Sindh High Court in Karachi stating that she had performed in “immoral scenes” that did not match with Pakistan’s religious and social values.
The patriotic petitioner has perhaps forgotten the stage performances and weird rainy dances of Lollywood but I liked the idea of curbing export of talent from the land of pure.
Waseem Akram hurt Muslims religious sentiments
Petition: The petition filed by Mohammad Fayyaz, in civil court Lahore that former Pakistani cricket great Wasim Akram has damaged Muslim sentiment for posing in a liquor advertisement.
Muslims may not have problem endorsing terrorists blowing twin towers but their sentiments would definitely hurt seeing their Muslim brother having whiskey glass in a mere advertisement.
Parveen brings Abrar ul Haq to Supreme Court
Petition: The Supreme Court had summoned the singer for an explanation over the song.
“Ne Parveen tu bari namkeen; oper sey tu miskeen, andar sey tu bari shauqeen.” How could the only Parveen on earth Abrar was singing about could be so spicy when she herself denies being so?
Fauzia for prioritizing constitution of Pakistan
Petition: Case filed against Central Secretary Information PPP Fauzia Wahab in Session Court Lahore regarding her statement for prioritizing constitution of Pakistan over Holy Quran.
In a country where Sharia is not implemented and constitutional is known as law of the land, Fauzia Wahab should have shut her mouth rather than being logical.
Imran Khan for being dad of illegitimate child
Petition: The reference had been filed by MQM under Articles 62 and 63 of the Constitution and the Public Representation Act, 1978 against Imran Khan that he was father of a daughter of Anna Luise alias Sita White born out of wedlock.
It was MQM’s first attempt to screen parliamentarians to make sure that only pious members could have admission rights in assembly.
Justice Rana Bhagwandas for being “Hindu”
Petition: The petition said no Non Muslim judge is authorized to administer oath to the president of Pakistan nor the constitution assigns constitutional obligations to the non Muslim judge in place of Muslim judge.
Pakistan was made in the name of Islam, can’t Muslims differentiate between evil and good. Why Hindu in superior judiciary and that too ‘BHAGWAN’das – The Bigger Hindu?
Rahat Fateh Ali Khan uttered improper words about God
Petition: The petitioner said that by singing the song “Aj Din Charhia Teray Rang Warga” Khan had denied the power and oneness of God.
Indeed protecting the powers of God is the duty of His followers.
Veena Malik for committing ‘immoral and un-Islamic acts’
Petition: A case has been filed in a Lahore court against Pakistani actress Veena Malik for committing ‘immoral and un-Islamic acts’ during her appearance on the Indian reality TV show ‘Big Boss’.
She could have done that in Pakistan as well. Why Big Boss and that too with Indians? Not Fair!
Petition to end the trial of assassin Malik Mumtaz Qadri
Petition: Mr Awan in his appeal had maintained that Mumtaz Qadri had killed Mr Taseer because no criminal case was registered against the governor for criticizing the blasphemy laws in public.
Petition further read that Pakistani law states that capital punishment will be handed to those who blaspheme. “Chief Justice Mumtaz Qadri” has just awarded Taseer his due death sentence.
Petition seeks to empower army chief
Petition: Tehreek-i-Inqilab Pakistan chairman Advocate Rana Ilmuddin Ghazi filed the petition, contending that the army had been unable to take prompt action to stop the American operation in Abbottabad because the power to take such a decision rested with President Asif Zardari and not Chief of Army Staff General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani.
Empowering COAS General Kayani and assigning him the power of President and Prime Minister would definitely curb terrorism and mess this nation is going through but keep in mind, the petitioner is not supporting dictatorship.
Petition against Ms.Kim Barker for getting “sexually harassed” by Nawaz Shareef
Petition: Advocate Masood Gujjar filed the petition stating that the allegation of sexual harassment by Ms. Barker is part of a character assassination in which she claimed that Nawaz Sharif gave her an Apple Iphone as a gift and asked her to be his “special friend.
The gift was offered by would- be Amir ul Momineen of Pakistan. Ms Barker should not have been sexually harassed by the spiritual leader of ‘Noon League’. She indeed deserves punishment for not being a special friend of Mr. “Shareef”.
Petition against media from airing news related to fake degrees of legislators
Petition: A case filed by PML Q, MPA seeking for an order to stop media from airing news related to fake degrees of legislators.
Such news gives a bad impact on masses and in international community. Why media has problems with someone’s degree. Are they unaware of the fact that ‘a degree is a degree whether fake or original’?
Rehman Malik sued over incorrect recitation of Quranic verses.
Petition: A constitutional petition was filed in the Supreme Court of Pakistan seeking the disqualification of Interior Minister, Senator Rehman Malik, over incorrect recitation of Quranic verses.
Wonder how this country would progress when we have interior minister who can’t recite correct versus. I am sure he wouldn’t be able to disincentive suicide bombers.
Case against Mubashir Luqman for inviting Qadiyani spiritual leader in Tv program.
Petition: The petitioner held that on June 2, 2010, the channel broadcast its programme (Point-Blank with Luqman) in which spiritual leader of Qadianis– was also invited “which hurt my and millions of fellow Muslims’ religious sensibilities”
I reiterate this land was made for Muslims, the same Muslims whom majority of the fellow Muslims accept. No other sect, religion or cartoon should be allowed to appear on Tv that hurt Pakistanis Muslims’ sentiments.
Petition to remove Musharraf’s name from official record
Petition: Former President, Rafiq Tarar filed petition in the Lahore High Court (LHC), seeking to remove Musharraf’s name from official record.
Musharraf was a dictator, he grabbed powers unconstitutionally and whatever he did was against the constitution of Pakistan except the oaths subsequent assembly took from him, infrastructure, development and technology he has brought to this nation.
Priceless Letters
Cute letters kids have written to God
This slideshow requires JavaScript.
During slide show please use Play and Stop option to view letters according to your convenience.
Enjoying the Silence
It was a happening day today. My morning started with the Breaking News that the US forces have killed Osama Bin Laden. Perhaps the hottest news after 9/11 ?
I considered myself lucky to be one of those few Pakistanis who got a chance to tune crazy news channels when my fellow countrymen were preparing to go work early morning. I , instead of paying heed to brush my teeth preferred concentrating on Tv and swapped various channels to extract more and more information until satisfied.
Once I got enough information I decided to spread bulk text messages to my long contact list on the issue that I named “Massive Development”. By doing so I wanted to astonish them and recognized as someone who is more updated than anybody else in the country. (The Geo Syndrome). I so wanted to start off my day at work by discussing the news already shared with my colleagues at workplace and it happened. They welcomed me with the sarcastic congratulation messages.
Time to time this particular news had been discussed with the extra spice of incoming information including the fate of OBL’s dead body etc.
However in evening when I took a journey towards home the scene on roads was entirely unexpected. I thought Osama’s become history now but wait, What the hell that man wearing Jeans and a T shirt with branded shades was doing right in the middle of the road!? He had a long tail of “frightened cars” waiting behind the DON that once he finished couple of magazine they could go to their destinations.
Was he an Al Qaida Man getting his frustration out on OBL’s death ? No, how could he be so cool and urbane — I thought!
Later I got to know about the second major development took place in Karachi , the target killing and all but thank God I reached home safely through alternate routes.
Now its 2 Am and — things are apparently calm around me though media is still high – I am fed up of watching the same Breaking news again and again.
Yes Osama Bin Laden is dead. Now what ? We’ve already had enough of Terrorism, Mullahism. Extremism, Barelvism which is treated by a good doze of Tanzeelism.
Now give it a break please and enjoy the silence…
I shall bear witness…
On the contrary to Faiz Ahmed Faiz’s famous poetry ‘Hum Dekhengay‘ where he paints doom’s day scenario as ultimate revolution and leaves the matter to God only, Strings have talked on realistic grounds, they have subtly invoked common Pakistani’s emotions who are eager to witness revolution TODAY and for that matter Pakistanis are urged to bring about change by themselves and not by waiting for any messiah or God’s miracle on judgment day.
India vs Pakistan: Pre Match Rants
Mentioned are a few ‘Golden statements’ from the Pakistani cricket fans which are memorable for not because they don’t make sense but they really sound hilarious. Here are the 15 out of the ordinary statements I’ve heard from different “self proclaimed cricketing gurus” around me lately, all of whom depict an interesting version of what’s going to happen in Pakistan vs India Semi Final which is to be played in Mohali on March 30th.
Although I find no common sense in their analysis yet there is a lot of interesting stuff to talk about and to have a good laugh for some time.
Few of them are as follows;
1-Pakistan was given a place in the semi-final as a reward for releasing Raymond Davis.
2- Shoaib Akhtar deserves to play in Semi Final but since Kamran Akmal is not capable to catch his fastest deliveries Shoaib will remain out of the squad.
3- Indians will try their level best to lose against Australia in quarter finals because if India wins against Australia and lose in Semi Finals against Pakistan they will be beaten to death by furious Indian crowd.
4- There is no point in reaching Mohali a week before, Pakistani players will be sold out.
5- Indians are good at black magic; just see how their Pundits put amulet under Mohali pitch.
6- The Mohali pitch has been developed to assist the Indian players.
7- Pakistanis will lose the match because they know Indian crowd will beat the hell out of our players if they win the game.
8- See how Indian spectators will ruin the match when they will feel Pakistan winning.
9- There is a reason why Pakistan will not lose the semi final, 18 crore Pakistani Muslims, Bengalis and lots of Indian Muslims will be praying for them.
10- RAW conspiring to use Indian bookies to bring down Pakistani team.
11- Bal Thakrey won’t cause any threat to team Pakistan. He is afraid of Dawood Ibrahim.
12- This time Pakistan will win the match because we don’t have “Sattay Baaz” in the squad.
13- Shoaib Akhtar will rip Kamran Akmal apart on the field if he drops any more catches when he is bowling.
14- How could Pakistan win when we have no implementation of Islam in this country.
15 – Bal Thakeray is actually an ISI double-agent. His job is to malign India’s reputation by threatening the Pakistan cricket team.
Shariah Law backfires
Interesting to see right wing political parties protesting against the release of Raymond Davis. I wonder who they are protesting against. Is it against the Islamic law under ‘Diyat’ (Blood money) – the same Shariah Law they have been demanding since creation of Pakistan or against the US Government that through a legal course of action got CIA operative released arrested for murdering two Pakistani men.
On the other hand US hypocritically adopts same Sharia law in Davis case that it brands “inhumane” due to which American Govt has imposed full fledged wars in various parts of the Muslim world but who cares as long as it suits them.
Whatever the brouhaha is about, the Punjab and Federal Government have again endorsed the statement of American Lawyer who once said on record that “these Pakistanis can sell their mothers for money” although this time the transaction is Shariah compliant.
Amir opts to complete “education” during ban
Lahore (Staff Reporter): The 18-year-old abandoned his Bachelors of corruption degree when
he started globetrotting as his career without completing his degree with Team Pakistan took off but his promising future was abruptly halted after he was found guilty of being unprofessional in corruption by an International Cricket Council tribunal last month.
Handed a five-year ban from the sport, Amir said he wanted to use the time “productively”.
“I had to leave my college of corruption and match fixing” because of my full-time match fixing profession in cricket once I was selected for Pakistan. But now I am trying privately to get a college degree in match fixing,” the teenager said on the private tv channel.
“I am passing through the toughest period of my life and I have realized just how important it is to acquire comprehensive education in match fixing.”
Many Pakistan players such as Amir hail from rural backgrounds and are unable to get a proper education in match or fancy fixing unlike Waseem Akram, Saleem Malik or Ata ur Rehman.
With his career now on hold, he said his family suggested he should focus on his proper Bachelors of corruption degree to remain busy and productive in future.
“I regret not being able to play in the World Cup but I watch the matches. One thing this episode has taught me is to strengthen yourself in fraudulency before jumping into cricket team”
A Nation Overloaded with Religion
Frequent assassinations of Pakistan People’s Party leaders have not only shaken the ideology of this country but left a clear cut message for Government to avoid any confrontation against strengthening religious lobby in Pakistan.
The Tehreek e Taliban and Al Qaeda backed groups in Pakistan especially in Punjab are after the ruling party and eradicating its moderate forces one by one. As a result the PPP systematically takes back seat, and gets blackmailed by the religious forces.
Government’s evident policy shift from the party manifesto of ensuring religious harmony among all faiths in the wake of doctrine of necessity further pushes nation in the hands of extremists.
From the assassination of Benazir Bhutto to Shehbaz Bhatti, the message is clear. Let Taleban pursuit their agenda of violent Islam and whoever comes in between will become history.
In such horrific circumstances when even the ruling party leaders are not safe how unarmed liberal forces would dare voice their opinion seems to be a big ask. As a result the clouds of insanity steadily prevailing and a common man is reluctant to counter them not because of being blithe but for his own safety resulting mass surrender of journalists, civil society, liberal political forces and minority rights groups against religious forces.
A common Pakistani despite wanting to express deep displeasure is suppressed by the bearded gun totted black sheep who are gelled up in the society to take necessary ‘religious measures’ against those who prefer humanity over religion.
Salman Taseer’s assassination by his own security guard Mumtaz Qadri and the subsequent showering of rose petals by lawyers’ community is one of the shocking examples of deep rooted religious fanaticism within our society. Be it media, armed forces, politics (not to mention the historical speech of Punjab Chief Minister Shehbaz Shareef during which he proudly endorsed the agenda of Taleban), judiciary, education or even sports.
In my view the traces of religious terrorism can be found back during partition campaign when the voices of independent ‘Muslim Land’ were on rise.
At that time some of the Muslims might had opted the idea of migrating to separate land due to vested interests but by and large it was the dominating religious sentiment that caused division with the objective of turning Pakistan into the “Fort of Islam” comprised by majority of Muslims.
Two- Nation Theory which clearly rejects any of idea co existence of Muslims with Hindus is a true depiction of Pakistan’s current situation where Muslims are unable to coexist with other sects let alone religions and ethnicities.
Today, I being a moderate Muslim who is deeply concerned about his country’s image foresee not only the bleak future of Pakistan but raises the doubts whether creation of Pakistan was really an apt approach.
Revolution
Those who think Pakistan is on the brink of revolution must understand that it is the ‘nation’ that undergoes revolution not ethnicities. Pakistan is comprised by a bunch of ethnicities that never experienced the joy of unity , a basic prerequisite to Revolution.
We Love you Bal Thakre!
The right-wing Shiv Sena on Thursday declared that party chief Bal Thackeray will decide if Pakistan can play in Mumbai if the team makes it to the final of World Cup 2011. According to a report published in The Hindu, party leader Manohar Joshi has said that the Shiv Sena chief will make the final decision of allowing the Pakistani team to play in Mumbai.
“You all know Sena chief Bal Thackeray’s views. If the Pakistan team reaches the final (scheduled in Mumbai), whether to allow them to play, the Sena chief will decide” : Source: Express Tribune
Few years ago when Shiv Sena activists spoiled the pitch of Feroze Shah Kotla Stadium, Delhi on the orders of Bal Thakre which caused a huge damage to India’s reputation in the world of cricket. A very good friend of mine then told me that Bal Thakrey is an ISI agent, Thakre does things that make India laughing stock in front of the world . I obviously rejected his claim and made fun of him but today when the self proclaimed king of Mumbai indicated that he will decide whether to let Pakistan play in finals (if qualifies)in Mumbai , he seemed superficially correct.
Yet again Thakre has come up with a creative strategy to defame India in the name of Pakistan and made his homeland embarrassed but this is not an end. Thakre’s opposition to let Pakistan play in finals will automatically lead Team Pakistan win the world cup match as it happened during 1996 world cup in Calcutta when India, who had beaten Pakistan in the quarter-finals, were facing defeat against Sri Lanka at 120-8 chasing 252 when disturbances began.
The spectators, annoyed with the hosts’ dismal batting show, threw bottle missiles on to the field and lit fires in the stands, forcing match-referee Clive Lloyd of the West Indies to award the game to Sri Lanka. I wish Shiv Sena do what they are known for and help Pakistan lift WC trophy that too in Mumbai.
We love you Bal Thakrey!
Jai Maharashtra!
The Acculturation of Pakistan
Every afternoon during the office lunch hours I drive towards different restaurants in the vicinity to try new places and break the monotony I usually develop from eating in the same ones. However I witnessed a different set-up today, the shops I crossed appeared entirely different from regular, and they were beautifully decorated with big red heart shaped balloons, cupids and buntings of Valentine ’s Day and visibly flooded with young girls and boys shopping for their dear ones. The kids on the street who are usually found cleaning the wind screen of the cars were now vendors of bouquets of roses to the commuters.
Cars with tinted glasses were cruising towards sea view, few girls covering their face with the Naqab sitting with their dream prince on the motorbikes leaving for the unknown destiny, perhaps a safer place where they could not be noticeable to their relatives was a common sight.
Even the mall i.e. next to my work place was giving an impression of safe haven for love birds that could freely roam around holding their partner’s hands, sitting close to them in the food court or parks and buy lots of gifts from their parent’s money just to ‘prove’ their love. In short the market created an ambiance pretty favourable for the young love birds who despite little bit of apprehension were managing to spend a good time with their partners, which I found was quite charming.
On the other hand among the somber circles Valentine’s Day remained talk of the town harping on the issue; ‘whether our society really need to celebrate the event or is it even Islamic?’
I although belong to the school of thought which has no concern with the ones who celebrate it passionately or find this day as an opportunity to express love. Nevertheless this year I observed an extraordinary boom in the trend of celebrating Valentine ’s Day, even to an extent of wearing red or pink outfits at work places. The heavy media coverage and peculiar scrolls of personal dedications to the loved ones with desi expressions like Jaan, Jaanu, Muaaah, Jaaneman on every Tv channel and radio made me think about a different genre of culture we are developing.
Although I tried to ditch this thought with the feeling that at least they were not shooting each other or firing on the mosques that claim hundreds of innocent lives on almost daily basis yet I could not convince myself with the scenario I witnessed today. This was not the Pakistan where I have grown up; the much simpler times of the 90’s. Love was indeed present but with the delightful appearance like the one in the songs of vital signs, strings, etc. Contrary to it now there was a phony public display of the feelings dependent on material stuff. This was never a part of Pakistani culture, let alone Islamic.
I am indifferent to the discussion whether celebrating Valentine’s Day is Islamically forbidden but what I disagree of is the very culture of Pakistan which deteriorating to the lowest ebb.
How can we adopt a particular festivity which we dare not celebrate openly? A celebration where we have hunt for places that are not easily accessible to our relatives and parents? On what grounds can we justify rejoicing something which we are actually afraid of, which involves deceiving the morality of our family and culture.
I can certainly not consider this as modernization of the Pakistani society. In plain terms this is westernization of the society (read not modernization). Our way to celebrate love is not defined within the parameters of a particular Day nor is it dependent on it. I reckon that love demands expression but every culture has its own values and demands that must not be diluted in the name of acculturation.
KESC’s Downsizing Drive: A Right decision at Wrong Time
The economic crisis which engulfed the world a couple of years back have appeared in Pakistan. The weakening economy is leaving its mark in every sector and the worst hit seems to be the Karachi Electric Supply Corporation (KESC) which was already a victim of corruption and a house of ‘ghost employees’ until the then President General Musharraf privatized the utility company to provide uninterrupted electricity to Karachites. The KESC fulfilled its promise and restructured the organization on revolutionary lines, from lodging FIRs against the electricity thieves to reducing the load shedding hours as less as 3 hours (comparing with rest of the nation facing more than 10 hours of load shedding). KESC took all necessary measures to turn the white elephant into productive organization.
In an attempt to continue with restructuring and to make the company financially viable the KESC has decided to get rid of those employees who considered burden on organization as a result KESC is forced to lay off 4,000 of its unproductive workers, while 500 employees opted for Voluntarily Separation Scheme (VSS) under a cost-cutting drive. Most of the lay-off workers were from five different categories – security guards, bill distributors, sanitary workers, drivers and clerical workers who are offered one month’s advance salary and gratuity benefits as a result Collective bargaining agents and union leaders have rejected the policy and opted to confront the management by all means.
With the passing days the KESC’s turmoil is increasing and the situation is getting more and more complex especially the scenario at the KESC Head office which is surrounded by a huge mob of sacked employees and their sympathizers representing the banners of several political parties. The live media coverage has managed to gain the support of the ill informed people of Pakistan who think in favor of the sacked employees considered as a liability by the utility company.
Indeed KESC is not an employment bureau however in a highly polarized country like Pakistan where political parties literally find issues to exploit and make maximum benefit out of them; corporate likes KESC should have conscientiously handled this particular issue foreseeing the post decision chaos. At this point in time mass downsizing would be an unwise step by the company when the country’s economic situation is alarming and Government and all other political parties are trying to capitalize issues for gaining public sympathy.
KESC’s step looks impudent, and the situation doesn’t seem to go in the favor of their decision to lay off the employees. Instead they must come up with “safe strategy” which could be implemented to achieve the objectives gradually. The company should pursuit the policy of downsizing but in a subtle and planned way which will leave very less scope for the labor unions to strengthen.
As an alternative, the company should also revise the appraisals policy which could be determined by company’s profit or productivity measures.
After restoration, all employees should be systematically included in the part of wage reduction program. It would not be fair to slash the wages of entry-level or non-management recruits only, such decisions will further spur discontentment among employees who were initially being targeted. However as soon as the wages are reduced with no security of appraisals, the non performing staff already working on less wages would definitely look for the soon-to-expire- lucrative Voluntarily Separation Scheme (VSS).
In short the company should devise a smart strategy to divide workers unions with cost reduction plans which will definitely help KESC achieve productivity and its objectives in long term.
Celebrating Taseer’s Death
I always read the country is going nowhere, I hear rhetoric that the country has no future but recently I understood that why Pakistan’s future is bleak. When the people of my country can get happy on the cold blooded murder of a human being then definitely something is majorly wrong somewhere.
To test the waters on the shocking assassination of the fearless Governor of Punjab, Salman Taseer , I discussed the heartrending incident with the people belonging to different school of thoughts including moderate Muslims.
I thought sharing my opinion with them would definitely provide me a bit of relief and a sense of empathy as Taseer was one of the most competent and knowledgeable politicians Punjab has ever produced, he was a man who never deserved to be treacherously and brutally murdered but to my surprise I confronted a good number of cheery faces including professionals, housewives and even students who didn’t take a second to justify his killing by declaring him an “Ayyash Aadmi” who had no respect for religion and the Prophet PBUH.
In their opinion the assassin has definitely done a devout duty by eliminating a blasphemer from the face of earth. Salman Taseer deserved that, said by one of my moderate Muslim friend living in Islamabad. He justified the attack on Governor as a religious duty of Muslims by quoting references from Hadiths. (Read not Quran and Sunnah)
I came to the conclusion that majority of the Pakistanis are contented with the assassination of the Governor who in fact tried to save the morality of Islam. Salman Taseer never hesitated to side with humanity by being vocal against the religious extremists who wanted to assassinate a poor Christian lady (an alleged blasphemer) under the pretext of Blasphemy law designed by Zia ul Haq.
The same controversial blasphemy law that is responsible for the defamation of Islam worldwide and has increased the rate of cold blooded murders in Pakistan, although I have already presented my views against religious fanatics on many occasions yet another display of Islamic Machoism have shaken me up and due to the unexpected retort of Pakistan’s “silent majority” the religion Islam has created an unexplainable fear within myself.
What added to my grievances was when I read that lawyers from Pakistan Muslim League (N) Rawalpindi division gave that self confessed assassin a warm welcome outside the court by showering rose petals on him but this is not an end both the Deoband and Barelvi sects leaders, who are otherwise at war with each other, appeared to be on the same page in celebrating the slaying of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader for terming the blasphemy law as a black law. As if criticizing a law is itself a blasphemy.
The largest body of the Barelvi group, Jamaate Ahle Sunnat Pakistan (JASP), issued a statement saying that “No Muslim should attend the funeral or even try to pray for Salmaan Taseer or even express any kind of regret or sympathy over the incident.”
I have realized that I am a follower of religion which cannot be questioned or even discussed; I now have to abide by a strict set of rules about my religion set by the honorable religious scholars and pro Islamic politicians of this country which may contradict against the true teachings of Islam.
Unfortunately, I have to swallow the bitter pill of the current version of Islam which with the passage of time has certainly become more unacceptable to the civilized world.
With each passing day I am getting an impression that Islam is what the majority of Pakistanis represent and that we Muslims are not the ordinary people, we should not be called violent but the brave Mujahideen who are willing to sacrifice our pro humanist fellows assuming God will give us a benefit of the doubt.
May God bless Mumtaz Qadri who with the power of ‘Iman’ provided the fellow Muslims reason to celebrate.
2010 in review
The stats helper monkeys at WordPress.com mulled over how this blog did in 2010, and here’s a high level summary of its overall blog health:
The Blog-Health-o-Meter™ reads Wow.
Crunchy numbers
The average container ship can carry about 4,500 containers. This blog was viewed about 18,000 times in 2010. If each view were a shipping container, your blog would have filled about 4 fully loaded ships.
In 2010, there were 51 new posts, growing the total archive of this blog to 88 posts. There were 314 pictures uploaded, taking up a total of 55mb. That’s about 6 pictures per week.
The busiest day of the year was August 14th with 384 views. The most popular post that day was Mountain Dew embraces Islam.
Where did they come from?
The top referring sites in 2010 were tribune.com.pk, orkut.com, pakpositive.com, blogs.tribune.com.pk, and facebook.com.
Some visitors came searching, mostly for sathi condom pic, tanzeel, politically incorrect quotes, tanzeelism, and pakistan flag.
Attractions in 2010
These are the posts and pages that got the most views in 2010.
Mountain Dew embraces Islam August 2010
29 comments
Taliban Stir Muted Sympathy May 2010
186 comments and 1 Like on WordPress.com,
Tanzeel January 2009
60 comments
The Ultimate Politically Incorrect Quotes October 2010
52 comments and 2 Likes on WordPress.com
Pakistan under the Microscope May 2010
49 comments
Pakistan’s Mullahpoly: My way or the highway
Copyright gives the author of an original work exclusive right for a certain time period in relation to that work, including its publication, distribution and adaptation, after which time the work is said to enter the public domain.
Readers must be surprised to see the implementation of copyright concept in the religion of truth revealed by Allah that actually has no connection with materialism but it’s a fact, in Pakistan Islam has been perceived as a corporation that exist as a product of corporate law (Pakistan’s Constitution), and its rules balance the interests of the management (Religious Fanatics) who solely operate the Islamic corporation in Pakistan. Creditors(Islamic sects) who loan its goods, services; shareholders (Madarsa Owners) that invest their capital (Madarsah Education) and the employees (Jihadi Brigade) who contribute their labor to achieve and save guard vested interests of Islam Inc.
We have learned and taught that Islam is the religion for everyone. Every Muslim has the right to study and practice it. Today we have different sects in Islam who are free to preach and practice their versions but unlike all there is a “Non Muslim” group too whom we usually call “Qadyanis” and have officially declared them Non Muslims.
I don’t want to go into the debate whether they are Muslims but my concern is even if they are declared as minorities why Pakistani Govt do not allow them to peach their religion. We all know that Islam is the fastest growing religion and can never be abolished yet we are not ready to believe in Allah who has taken sole responsibility to save the book and religion till the end.
Somewhere I have read that the time when Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto had appeared on the political scene with his political slogans of:
Islam is our religion
Democracy is our politics
Socialism is our economics
And won elections but over the year’s democracy and socialism faded into the background and Islam had come to the forefront especially when Bhutto had proclaimed Friday as the weekly holiday and declared Ahmedis as non-Muslims. That was the beginning of the nightmare of religious intolerance. The nightmare worsened during the era of Zia-ul-haq who handed over the religion to the illiterate “Mullahs” and tried to Islamize all aspects of civil life from schools to hospitals to government offices. He in consultation with the then religious scholars introduced law which resulted undermining of women’s rights. Introduction of Blasphemy Law worked as an insult to the minorities’ injuries which led to hundreds of innocent people being killed and jailed on mere allegations.
Today those draconian laws are still high in Pakistani society, we “the privileged” Sunni Muslims being in majority have the right to declare anyone Kafir or even kill in the name of religion just because we are made to believe that we are the true followers and custodians of Islam and its our prime duty to safeguard this entity that benefits us to achieve our objectives which we might not be able to accomplish on moral grounds however other sects do claim the same but being less in number they do not make their claims public but secretly.
If we go out on the streets we would find different brigades of bearded men wearing black, green, white, brown turbans belong to different sects and sub sects. They are more devoted to their religious doctrine than Islam. Apparently they claim to be brother of each other but if you talk to them separately they don’t spare a second to “prove” other sect Non Muslim.
However the Pakistan’s religious cartel has been agreed on the minimum common agenda that all Ahmedis are non Muslims and their entry into the religious market might reduce their profit share in the cake. Thus religious conglomerates of Pakistan have engineered separate laws to bar new player and even after declaring them Non Muslims they banned them to preach their version of Islam, let alone preaching, Pakistan is the only country where dominating religious scholars have established such a “Mullahpoly” that don’t even allow their competitor (Ahmedis) to even greet in Islamic way or recite Kalma however our traditional scholars are unaware of their competitor’s Guerilla Marketing strategy that relies on time, energy and imagination rather than a big marketing budget. Typically, Ahmedis campaigns are unexpected and unconventional; potentially friendly and people are targeted in unexpected places. Their way of unique, engaging and thought-provoking concept has successfully generated buzz and people in Pakistan hold a soft corner for them unlike before, they are not only heard but their eccentric and nonviolent propagations have made people to probe their set of beliefs which they spread in very organized and peaceful manner.
Recently a private tv channel has aired a video of “Ahemdi” Mosque near Faisalabad where policemen were vehemently defacing the word Allah and Kalima from their mosque and that too during prayers. On the other hand when our so called religious scholar was asked to throw light on this callous issue he was not only adamant to his dim point of view but came up with imprudent examples of copyright (i.e Kalima and Allah’s name are the copyrights of Muslims) that ultimately made fun of himself and the religion resulting support to Ahmedi group from the human rights organizations as well as majority of moderate Pakistanis.
youtube=http//www.youtube.com/watch?v=FDlH09Inx2E
Regardless of whatever logic our scholars present they cannot justify curbs on freedom of practicing religion as it is the clear violation of Pakistan’s constitution and Quaid e Azam’s thoughts who envisioned Pakistan as a moderate progressive nation where minorities are allowed to preach and practice their religion freely.
Jinnah in his opening speech to the constituent Assembly, said: “You are free to go to your temples; you are free to go to your mosques or to any other place of worship in this state of Pakistan. You may belong to any caste or creed – that has nothing to do with the business of the state.” but today’s Islamic Republic of Pakistan is entirely a different country than the one Jinnah had envisaged for us.
We are certainly living in the geographical location that Jinnah fought and struggled for, but in terms of vision and policy we are living in a chaotic mess with no improvement in future.
The Chocolate Story
Chocolates are one of my few weaknesses I can’t resist. Give me any kind of chocolate I would happily consume it and if you don’t. I will manage to have it anyway and this is exactly what I did lately.
On my birthday night (26th December) while on bed when I was reliving some good old memories my eyes scanned a Cadbury Pouch and a can of Pringle chips on the table with a balloon tied on it, being an optimist I assumed that this surprise-gift must be presented to me by my ‘loving siblings’ that I wondered how went unnoticed by me, to confirm this pleasant surprise while carrying the stuff I proudly walked into his room, to thank him.
Me: Sameer, who has given it to me, Adeel or you?
Sameer: What? Bhai keep it from where you have picked it. Faiza has brought it for me; this is my over due birthday’s gift she couldn’t present it on 23rd (Dec)
Me: Ohkay!
Sameer: You thought it was for you?
Me: Obviously, it’s my birthday what else would I assume, anyway open it. Let’s eat it.
Sameer: No, I will eat whenever I feel like, just drop it.
Me: Okay but do share it with me because I also gave you lots of chocolates when you were too young, you don’t remember.
Sameer: I don’t know you. Just drop the packet or I will hide them and you will get nothing.
Me: Hmm Okay! (walked into my room with heavy heart)
Later when he slept and nobody was around my mind started working, I did all arrangement to accomplish what I call a “Tasty Crime” project. All what I needed was a scissor and a masking tape.
I took the
1- Cadbury pouch in my hand
2- Turned it upside down
3- Subtly holed up the pouch’s base with scissor
4- Took out at least 5-8 chocolates from its bottom
5- Covered the base with the tape so that the chocolates remain in the packet and don’t drop down.
Now the pouch’s looking shiny and untouched but a bit lighter in weight — but who cares as the mission was successfully accomplished.
Right now I am indulging the chocolate experience and penning down my achievement — on the other hand my innocent bro, as expected — has already hidden the pouch and eating his few chocolates assuming that the pouch is safe from ‘Big Boss’
It’s widely perceived that with the passage of time we start getting mature avoid doing things that count “silly” but in my view how much older we grow such tiny but adventurous moments keep providing us a sense of joy. I love being what I am…
Pictorial version of Chocolate Robbery
Man behind ‘The Fall of Dhaka’
While going through the causes of the cessation of East Pakistan (excerpts from Hamood ur Rehman Commission report) and the development of post 1971 scenario I realized that Hitler was right when he said ‘the bigger the lie, more people will believe it’. Similar ‘bigger lies’ have been told by our previous governments (esp. PPP) since 1971.
On 16th December 2010, 39 years after the creation of Bangladesh, let us retrospect how our government in the past has told us a great lie about these political occurrences.
As per the details available in different form of electronic and print media, the Hamoodur Rehman Commission Report cites that incompetence, moral degeneration and political conspiracies were the major reasons for the 1971 debacle. It was maintained in the Report that the defeat suffered was not a result of military factors alone, but had been brought about as the cumulative result of political developments that took place between 1947 and 1971.
Looking at the other of the other side of the story I find that the Government then was actually the real culprit. It was Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto‘s party which got 82 of the 138 seats allocated to the four provinces in West Pakistan but neither of them were represented in East Pakistan. Setting aside the slogan raised by him “Idher ham udher tum”, he even threatened the members of the Assembly from West Pakistan that he would ‘break their legs’ if they attended its inaugural session in Dhaka, East Pakistan, and if they insisted on attending theymust buy a one-way ticket.
Such step motherly treatment further increased the grievances of the people of East Pakistan and a justified freedom movement emerged from their side, however at that time Pakistani Military had no other option but to supress the movement in order to save the territory of Pakistan while Bhutto on the other hand kept misguiding Yahya Khan that ended up on breaking the nation and massive bloodshed in the history of mankind.
Perceived as a ‘Hero’ amongst certain sections of Pakistanis for his political moves which on the contrary proved to be nonsensical and led the country into a chaotic humdrum.
His senseless steps of nationalization of the economy and confusing steps of implement Islamic socialism by declaring Friday as Public holiday were the worst steps taken by any ruler in the history of Pakistan. In order to appease religious groups he got Ahmedis declared Non Muslims that triggered an unending violent movement against a peaceful and progressive section of society. The brunts of this decision are still to be felt and fatally alienated the community in their own nation.
To remain in power Bhutto took decisions which caused irrevocable damage to the social and political structure of the country.
We also must not ignore the role of Jinnah in creating the language controversy in East Pakistan that Urdu was to be the common language for Pakistan. This proved highly controversial, since Urdu was a language that was only spoken in the West by Muhajirs and in the East by Biharis. The majority groups in West Pakistan spoke Punjabi, while the Bengali language was spoken by the vast majority of East Pakistanis. The Islamic state was not able to integrate and deal the prevailing ethnic and cultural differences which became the root cause of this debacle.
The language controversy eventually reached an extreme which lead East Pakistan to revolt while the other part of Pakistan remained calm even though Punjabi was spoken by the majority groups of West Pakistan.
Several civilians including students lost their lives in a police crackdown on 21 February 1952.The day is revered in Bangladesh and in West Bengal as the Language Martyrs’ Day.
In my opinion the policies Pakistani establishment set for East Pakistan were indeed biased and based on self interests, we never took the people of East Pakistan as our own since day one and as a result both the countries parted their ways. It’s time to stop selective blame game and hold responsible the politicians whose inability to lead this nation and structure it strong worked s a catalyst to the freedom movement in East Pakistan.
I wish neo-Bhuttos could now visit Bangladesh as they owe an apology to its people more than anybody else.
Karachi girls set a “Pathetic Record”
This slideshow requires JavaScript.
Nineteen school girls of Karachi have made a “history” and managed to register their names in the Guinness Book of World Record by accommodating themselves in a smart car.
The group led by Aimen Saleem Yousuf squeezed themselves into the car to break the earlier World record set by the Climb Fit Team of Australia when 18 students compressed into a standard Smart Car at the Warringah Mall, Sydney Australia on January 25, 2010.
My impression for Guinness Book of World Record was ruined when I watched those 19 “talented” girls trying to accommodate themselves in a small car climbing on each other in literally ‘weird positions’ for the sake of setting ‘world record’ surrounded by various media men who were happily taking photographs to print Pakistan’s competitive girls for next day’s newsprint.
I wonder what the hell that was but again its a matter of personal freedom and setting world records keeping the fact aside whether the circus they were indulging into was really productive.
To me, climbing over each other in a small car is not a big deal, I suggest Guinness Book people to just come out on the streets of Pakistan and see how the overloaded Public Buses in this part of the world carry more passengers than their seating capacity, its the record we set on daily basis.
If these girls really wanted to do something they should have come up with creatives ideas which could glorify nation in its true sense. Like Lahore Grammar School that made nation proud by winning NASA competition.
Likewise Last year Pakistan successfully managed to get into Guinness World Record by planting maximum number of mangrove sapling by breaking Indian record which they set up in Assam on 13th July 2009 by planting 447,874 trees in 24 hour.
The Sindh Card
After taking charge of the Government the first step Pakistan People’s party took was to unite Sindhi people on ethnic basis by playing a “Sindh Card”. It was an attempt to realize people of Sindh province that their Sindhi leaders have been assassinated in Punjab province and except the Bhutto’s league there is no one to speak on Sindh’s behalf.
As a result Pakistan People’s Party had successfully secured sympathy- vote from Sindh province (minus Karachi). Since that day the People’s party Government has decided to keep a grip on Sindh province through artificial means i.e not serving the people of this province but by keeping the element of Sindhi Nationalism alive in their hearts. They know the illiterate and poor population of interior Sindh can easily be exploited by the hands of Sindhi nationalist political parties.
To me Sindhi culture should be celebrated not by only by wearing an Ajrak and a Topi but through initiating literacy and women emancipation programs and operating against Dacoits in Kacha area of Sindh. I hope by reducing such stigmas associated with the land of Sindh, this province in true sense will be able to celebrate its cultural day. As of now Sindh is not known for Ajrak and Topi but by the social ills I have mentioned above.
In my opinion the people of Sindh should look for meaningful action, gestures beyond symbolism. They must demand concrete steps and clear policy for development of Sindh from the flag bearers of this province. They must ask themselves that despite the grip of Sindhi ruling party on this province why their province is still known as “Interior Sindh”.
People want development and progress. The current PPP regime has just given a “Topi” to Sindh in the name of culture day.
I wish poor Sindhis could unearth the conspiracy hatched by their very own leaders.
Evening Anxiety
At times I feel myself a victim of evening depression, I come across a mood disorder in which I experience depressive symptoms in the winter especially on silent nights. Though throughout the year I find evenings more depressing especially when Mullahs simultaneously give Azaan from mosques around and whenever the sun sets down, it’s like something left me and sadness has risen inside…
Right now its Sunday night and after a few minutes I will hit the bed, in between I got this interesting pic from my brother’s FB profile. I found it funny that has changed my mood (thanks to him). He perhaps took this picture in Multan.
When Culture collides with Religion
We always condemn western culture for being lewd and immoral for their openness towards sexuality for us which is impossible to think, we blame them for making women a sexual object for men, that is why they have high cases of rape and child molestation….
Let us take a break from this rhetoric saga and look closer, even our religious clerics have been in news quite often of –course not for sensationalizing fatwas but other wrong reasons. Amongst religious
conservatives in Pakistan especially the clerics and prayer leaders hailing from tribal areas often become a part of the news stories when they are found guilty of child molestation, victimizing young boys and girls who are apparently their students at home and Madarsa.
Although the religion strictly denounces it and mandates harsh punishment yet the trend of child molestation or pedophilia by religious clerics is increasing day by day giving Islam a bad name.
I fail to understand why these clerics who claim to be the true followers of Allah and Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) steep down to such activities and hamper the innocence of children.
So where the fault lies, of course not all religious clerics are pedophiles, the issue should be pondered over from larger perspective. In my humble opinion it’s the culture that needs to be answerable, we know the imposition of super conservative Islamic culture in certain parts of the country specially in tribal areas where unnecessary extreme restrictions on interacting with women leads to greater prevalence of the sexual crimes in the form of homosexuality as well as pedophilia.
Keeping the issue of pedophilia aside, homosexuality is common in tribal areas of Pakistan, in other words, sex between men can be seen as the flip side of the segregation of women due to tough religious obligations in Pashtoon culture, conservative Pakistani societies as well as Arab cultures. This is perhaps the reason we often read such accounts within tribal areas and by the religious clerics who live in the isolated culture and find easy access to young kids while teaching them privately.
Even the Child sex abuse allegations against Roman Catholic priests have caused anger in many countries across the globe. And the world’s renowned churches facing a series of pedophilia scandals, some observers, including senior figures from inside the Catholic, have begun to ask whether the tradition of celibacy in the priesthood has contributed to child abuse.
Since Islam does not have the concept of celibacy yet these incidences occur in our society. Do we think there is a need to ponder over the rigid culture of segregation?
In a country like Pakistan where religious intolerance is growing the society and other elements within needs to implement moderate culture and optimum interaction between men and women to avoid incidents of child molestation. The country never needed to practice Islam moderately as it needs now.
It’s high time to learn the difference between culture and religion and root out the ills of culture which are glued with the name of religion.
Sunday Evening
Poetry never fascinates me but I have just got a text message from one of my friends who has beautifully sketched the feelings of 9-5 brigade who feel the same sort of depression on Sunday evenings what I go through.
In Pakistan our offices were closed on 17th November on account of Eid ul Adha and going to resume tomorrow i.e Monday 22nd November.
Gham e Zindagi kaisay sunaaon
mera office khul raha hai kal
Main Khushi Kahan say Laaon
mera office khul raha hai kal
Tumhay yeh gila hai kay mizaaj kion hain barham
kaho kaisay muskuraaon mera office khul raha hai kal
Tumhay Eid ki khushi hai
Mujhay yaad hai wo
Lekin main kaisay bhool jaaon
Mera office khul raha hai kal
Beauty of Democracy
Pakistan’s democracy is playing a tool of Magical Wand for the ruling elites and Pakistan People’s Party . It seems in the name of democracy they have acquired a license to issue weirdest of ‘political Fatwas’ from the ‘house of gods’.
In a latest display of unprecedented stupidity The Sindh Assembly has passed a unanimous resolution against Transparency International for ranking Pakistan 34th in global corruption index. The resolution was tabled by Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) MPA Sharjeel Memon. According to them Transparency International launched a propaganda against the government.
Earlier the Punjab Assembly passed a unanimous resolution condemning the role of media and alleged it of ‘irresponsible behavior’ amid the on-going fake degree controversy and this time the Sindh Assembly politicians never minded to make a fool out of themselves.
From Kamran Khan of Geo Tv to the common Pakistani who protests against price hikes on streets. All sort of criticisms are treated as “conspiracy” and attempts to derail democratic regime which is restored by the blood of Hazrat Benazir Bhutto Rehmat ullah Aleh and protected by one-time Laadla of General Zia ul Haq, Ameerul Momineen Hazrat Nawaz Shareef Rehmat ullah Aleh.
I now tend to agree with the statement that ‘democracy is the best revenge’ said by none other than Hazrat Bilawal Bhutto Zardari (a would be-Rehmatullah Aleh)
The Ultimate Politically Incorrect Quotes
They are supposed to be good orators but something which our politicians cannot avoid is Bloopers!!!!!
It’s only after they have said something in front of the media the politicians realize that how blundering it was. Often they end up saying something vague which can be easily sizzled by the media.
To their rescue comes the ‘official statement’ from their party blaming the media for misquoting their noble thoughts! Or may be sometimes for getting the party hands clean out of the matter, they shun taking responsibility for any such ‘misquotations’.
More often than not politicians intentionally issue stunning statements to stir controversy that ends up on compromises with the promise of not indulging in war on words anymore but the drama goes on. This tactic is also used to divert public attention from on going burning issue.
Mentioned are few of such ‘golden’ quotations from the elected leaders which are memorable for the people not because they were strong or power but also because they really sounded hilarious coming from their mouth. Living in an entertainment starved country like Pakistan — media gives maximum projection to their crazy statements and leaves nation hassled in serious or sometimes lighter vein until a new statement pops up.
In the light of Pakistan’s political history below I have tried to pen down few ‘notable’ quotes that have incited controversy in political arena and made Pakistanis stunned.
1. National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO) is a medal and I regret over not to be listed in NRO.
Governor Punjab, Salman Taseer
2. Everyone whether he is a Baloch, Sindhi, Seraiki, Pashtun or Punjabi should be given an equal right to do corruption
Minister of State for Defence Production, Abdul Qayyum Jatoi
3. The other issues are all domestic and could be discussed later on … I can co-exist with a pig but not with a Punjabi.
Nawab Kher Bakhsh Marri, Baloch Nationalist Leader
4. Accords not holy Quran or Hadith
President of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari
5. I am not among those who offer sacrifice but I am among those who take sacrifices.
6. Gen Musharraf planned a bloodbath of innocent Muslims at the behest of others only to prolong his rule, but we in the PML-N opposed his policies and rejected dictation from abroad and if the Taliban are also fighting for the same cause then they should not carry out acts of terror in Punjab
Punjab Chief Minister, Shahbaz Sharif
7. Let’s persuade people to consume less sugar and then we will see where these hoarders sell their sugar.
Information Minister, Qamar Zaman Kaira
8. Dr Babar Awan is ‘Abu Jahl’ of lawyers’ fraternity
Punjab Law Minister, Rana Sanaullah
9. Governor Punjab’s status no better than ‘toilet paper’
Punjab Law Minister, Rana Sanaullah
10. I’m a badmash and know well how to deal with this lot.
Sindh Home Minister, Zulfiqar Mirza
11. You must understand the environment in Pakistan. This has become a moneymaking concern. A lot of people say if you want to go abroad and get a visa for Canada or citizenship and be a millionaire, get yourself raped.
Former President General Pervez Musharraf
12. Our Hero Is Raja Dahir Not Muhammad Bin Qasim
ANP representative, Senator Haji Adeel
13. Degree is a degree whether original or fake
Chief Minister Balochistan, Nawab, Muhammad Aslam Raisani
14. I don’t say that there is no corruption in my ministry, but the question is where it is not.
Ghulam Ahmad Bilour, Federal Minister Railways
15. These (Burying women alive) are centuries-old traditions, and I will continue to defend them.
Federal Minister for Postal Services, Israr Ullah Zehri
16. We were ready to break Pakistan and were much more determined to chant slogan of ‘Pakistan Na Khapay’ – No need of Pakistan.
Sindh Home Minister, Zulfiqar Mirza
17. The division of the subcontinent was the biggest blunder in the history of mankind. It was not the division of land; it was the division of blood.
Muttahida Qaumi Movement Leader, Altaf Hussain
18. I apologies to the departed soul of Sikh ruler (Ranjit Singh) for frequently quoting his name in meetings for wrong reasons. I was wrong. Ranjit (Singh) was a great administrator of Punjab.
Leader of Opposition, Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan
19. Iftekhar Chaudhry is the scum of the earth – a third-rate man – a corrupt man.
Former President General Pervez Musharraf
20. Even more gorgeous than I had expected, now I know why the whole of America is crazy about you. If he’s (cameraman) insisting, I might hug you.
President of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari
21. Punjab law minister Rana Sanaullah is a ‘manjan seller’
Central Secretary for Information of Pakistan Peoples Party, Fauzia Wahab
22. Even if contract is given to America it will also be unable to bring peace
Sindh Home Minister, Zulfiqar Mirza
23. His (Altaf Hussain’s) arrest seems only weeks away, and investigations being conducted by Scotland Yard and police are in their final stages.
Chairman, Pakistan Tehreek e Insaaf , Imran Khan
24. Look, you will soon see Shaukat Aziz ditching Gen Musharraf and joining the political leadership of the opposition parties.
25. I am not afraid of jail’s mosquitoes
President of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari
26. Munawar Gill committed adultery with consent, can’t take action.
Punjab Law Minister, Rana Sanaullah
27. Kamran Khan, the famous Geo TV anchorperson, presented 560 news stories solely on President Asif Zardari, mainly to target him. Ansar Abbasi is also working on the same agenda, i.e. to weaken democracy in Pakistan. Both the senior journalists are ‘Indian agents’.
Senior Minister of Punjab Assembly, Raja Riaz
28. I launched my Facebook page eight months ago; today I have more than 315,000 fans.
Former President of Pakistan, Pervez Musharraf
29. All out efforts are being made to overcome the energy crisis and the load-shedding would end by December 2009.
Minister for Water and Power Raja Pervez Ashraf
30. Nawaz League is the enemy of Pakhtuns and still following the policies of Ranjeet Singh
ANP Provincial President Afrasiab Khattak
31. No Muslim is involved in suicidal attacks in Pakistan, and rather Blackwater (Xe) – a US private contractor – and Indian agents are involved in these incidents.
Ameer, Jamaat e Islamic, Syed Munawar Hasan
32. The MQM will openly support the patriotic generals if they take any martial law-type action against corrupt politicians and feudal lords.
Muttahida Qaumi Movement chief Altaf Hussain
33. Tehrik-e-Insaf will back military rule in the country for the sake of stability.
Chairman Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf, Imran Khan
34. My own brother approached me and said lala (brother), ‘Can I also join your party?’ I told him to run away … you are a known gambler.
Dr. Sher Afgan Niazi, Member of All Pakistan Muslim Leagues
35. I have sent Gilani to the PPP and I will call him back to the PML, when he becomes tired.
36. The PML-N has appointed Punjab Law Minister Rana Sanaullah as a “loudspeaker”
Governor Punjab, Salman Taseer
37. How a person, who used to sell tickets at Bambino cinema in Karachi, reached the Surrey Palace and became richer than Queen Elizabeth before his ascendancy to the presidency? It is a million-dollar question that only the PPP top leader has to answer.
Spokesman Pakistan Muslim League N, Siddiqul Farooq
38. If Musharraf is thinking he can stage a comeback it’s only because how things are now, his era looks relatively better
Chairman Pakistan Tehreek e Insaaf, Imran Khan
39. Yesterday, when I asked Khwaja Imran Nazir for a lift, he was listening to Munni Badnam, an Indian song, in his car.
MPA Punjab Assembly, Hassan Murtaza
40. Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz will take out a ‘long march’ if the decision (of bringing in NAB chairman) is not retracted.
Punjab Chief Minister Mian Shahbaz Sharif
41. I have been able to take the nod of one bride (ANP) and now I am going to take the nod of another (MQM)
Sindh Home Minister Zulfikar Mirza
42. If it is possible for Punjab’s leaders, they can unite their province with Indian Punjab
Aisha gets her new nose
Brave: Aisha, 19, pictured wearing a type of prosthetic nose often used by film actors. Her nose and ears were hacked off by brutal in-laws after she was promised in marriage aged 12
The 19 year old girl, shocked the world when she appeared on the cover page of Time Magazine to lift the veil on the plight of many women in Afghanistan. We all know that Afghanistan and in some cases Pakistan becomes horrible when it comes to emancipate their women.
Muslim countries especially in Pakistan women might not get publically tortured to such a horrible extent but the amount of stress a woman of land of pure gets in terms of psychological tortures which lead to destruction of their the self-image forcing them to adopt stress positions .
Musharraf Reloaded
In his recent candid public appearance Musharraf fired the first round of verbal bullets on the gang of criticizers who left no chance of back lashing his name while he maintained distance from the public and media. His first shot came for Dr. AQ Khan who was victimized being called “characterless”, while he titled Nawaz Shareef as “Brainless” and revealed that it was actually Chaudries because of whom NRO was introduced but the heated words did not come to a hold here.
It seems Musharraf has decided to go one on one with certain politicians and analysts who have been point scoring on his name and portraying him as a root cause of prevailing and past crises. I am not sure whether this is the right time to browbeat opponents but I believe he’s justified to respond them in ‘Awami style’.
The first terminology he used was “spent cartridges”(Chalay huey Kaartoos) directed for those good- for- nothing retired Generals who teamed up to have him held accountable for actions, which include alleged abrogation of the Constitution and Kargil debacle. The ex Generals sitting idle at home had apparently nothing to do in their lives so they took Musharaf’s activities as an opportunity that could help them come on TV and might allow little fame which they never had a chance to enjoy.
The flow of the strategy was devised during the Judicial crisis in Pakistan when every time comparatively an aged General would appear on TV and spew nonsense against Musharraf but on the contrary they had to witness guard of honor to Musharraf and no treason charges so far which further added insult to their injuries, then emerges another character Dr. A.Q Khan, the same Pakistani rogue scientist who had admitted to transferring technology and information to Iran and North Korea and confessed on national television to running a proliferation network.
Right after Musharraf’s resignation, Mr. Khan without worrying about his self esteem and the position he held joined the bandwagon of politicians and in a typical colloquial style wrote an article in Jang Newspaper where he called Musharraf despicable, traitorous foreign agent donned the costume of Presidency who failed in his dirty deeds, he further accused him of being the self-styled Commando who cannot even set his foot on the street of this country because ‘the public’ will tear him into tiny pieces and feed to the scavengers.
These low levels of statement’s made against Musharraf, forced him to retaliate and call Dr. Khan a “characterless” for obvious reasons.
On the other hand another character Mir Zafarullah Jamali , who in 1970s was a minister for the Pakistan Peoples Party, served as a minister in Balochistan . In the 1980s worked in the government of General Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq as a minister of various departments, in the 1990s became an important member of the Pakistan Muslim League (N) however after the removal of Nawaz Sharif, Mr. Jamali joined the PML-Q and now taking a U turn he blamed Musharraf for preparing to send Pakistani troops in Iraq Meanwhile, Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain in his interview got the facts straight and told
media that that when he was Prime Minister for a brief period, he had in fact refused to send troops to Iraq. Now it becomes easier for us to figure out the reality.
Similarly, the PML N, who is endemic to drag Musharraf in every issue and holding him responsible for every catastrophe, be it Aafia Siddiqui case, Bugtis murder or even Nawaz Shareef’s hair loss, but when Musharraf responds — the “renowned Shareefs” are reminding him of his etiquettes.
Now the Musharraf has started making presence in media which is obviously a tough task to handle for Shareef brothers who shamelessly signed agreements in December 2000 with him and flew to Saudi Arabia with their families and servants leaving behind their hapless party men.
Musharraf was Indeed a dictator but he had few feathers in his cap. In some cases, the dictator has achieved more. The achievements of Pervez Musharraf become evident when compared with that of the present government.
When being dictator he could introduce democratic norms like local Government or media freedom etc, just imagine what wonders he can perform as a democratic leader.
Now the dictator has turned into a democrat, the democracy obsessed nation should not only welcome him but appreciate his AWAMI style of politics as well.
XIX Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi
XIX Common Wealth Games in Delhi is perhaps the most criticized sporting event of the decade due to the management as well as infrastructural flaws.
As soon as the event kicked off the host city began 
confronting various problems highlighted by foreign media and the countries who were against to hold CWG in India however South Asia’s emerging power within the limitations of its financial resources, workforce skills, pressing competing demands and probable corruption, has fully utilized its potential and made her dream come true.
Now the CWG games despite uncalled for criticism are progressing with full pace and world’s renowned athletes are busy securing their medals.
It is is indeed a setback for those miscreants who are hell bent on finding faults in the ongoing event, India, a developing country that has snatched such a wide scale multi-sport event from the developed world and so far successfully leading it deserves appreciation for exhibiting its potential.
Being a Pakistani this event makes me realize where Pakistan actually stands.
We have no right to criticize India that has actually glorified our continent. We Pakistanis should rather worry whether we will ever be able to convince International community for holding even a single cricket match on our “Jihadi Sarzameen”.
Well done India!
Public Rhetoric Vs Judicial Pragmatism
“I am not sad. I am not distressed. …They are not torturing me. This is a myth and lie and its being spread among the Muslims”, these were the words of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui after the long awaited verdict was served against her on September 23rd; she was found guilty and was convicted of multiple charges including an attempt to murder American military personnel in Afghanistan. She has been sentenced with 86 years of imprisonment after which she called for Muslims to resist using violence.
The harsh punishment sparked an anticipated outrage by the various sections of public in different cities of Pakistan. Hundreds of activists demonstrated against the verdict by burning Israeli and American flags and chanting anti-American slogans like “Death for America” and “Down with the US system of justice.
Not to forget that Aafia Siddiqui is an American citizen who was tried and convicted by the US Judiciary after a thorough judicial process but as expected the Pakistani civil society (so called protectors of Justice), opportunist political parties and media sensationalized the whole issue and teamed up against the US court simply because the judgment went against their sensitivities.
I am wondering how the legal professionalism which demands respect for judiciary allowed lawyers to boycott Pakistani courts for a decision taken by the US court and that too for an American citizen.
On what basis Pakistani lawyers could brand the whole US judicial system as a ‘farce’ and criticize American judiciary which is known to be one of the transparent and an established court of justice. Chanters for Aafia Siddiqui are busy in twisting facts to play politics on the issue which has actually become a matter of national shame.
We are forcing the International community to perceive Pakistan not only producers but supporters of terrorists as well.
The time has come that instead of venting our nonsensical frustration on America and Jews we must seriously mend our ways to stop exporting violence of any form to Afghanistan or any part of the world and rather engage ourselves in constructive activities which will help the nation to turn into a progressive state.
As Afia’s sister has submitted this case in Allah’s court — now the family should accept to what Allah had kept in store for them. I see no reason to call for a Movement in support of a terrorist who is against the very sanctity of the nation. United States might have wrongly imposed war in Iraq or involved in human rights abuses but that doesn’t justify Dr. Aafia’s crime which could cause mass causalities on 9/11 pattern.
In my opinion the decision has been served — now the nation should move on and ensure not to indulge in activities that cause embarrassment for Pakistan on international level. Blaming America for the chaos in Pakistan will not serve any purpose. Their judicial system is very strong, focused and transparent the decision was what Dr. Aafia deserved.
Had they wanted to kill her they won’t have brought her to the courts, provide her with legal aid and allowed media to cover the trial. We need to realize that America is neither our friend nor foe.
We need not enter into the debate whether she was apprehended from Afghanistan or Pakistan, what matters to us is she’s proven guilty which is another blot on the face of Pakistan.
Also published in Express Tribune Blog
Echoes of Revolution
“Revolution” was not the talk of the town until Pakistan experienced the worst form governance in its history. The deadly floods couldn’t discipline Pakistan’s notorious ministers to focus on public service. The besieged government of Benazir’s husband is unable to deal with the conflicts both man made and natural, being handled by the “Information Ministry”, which has left them assailed by the echoes of revolution arising from Pakistan’s political sphere.
Altaf Hussain, from the MQM was the first who tested the waters by articulating the suspicion of Pakistanis when he accused feudal of deliberately diverting waters to the neighbouring villages to save their crops, live stocks and personal properties. The reaction was mixed from political parties but massive support of public to the idea of ‘change’ raised the eye brows of Pakistani Think-tank and Media.
The blunt yet pragmatic demand from Altaf Hussain is a further extension of his party’s political manifesto in which he’s critical about the disguised dictatorship working under the banner of democracy, this time he wants an action from Army, the real power base of Pakistan having a strong contribution in policy making. The call for Army has come from him as a response to betrayal from elected feudal representatives against catastrophe which Altaf has been pointing out since the birth of MQM.
Conventional political parties haunted by feudal lords and corrupt politicians are as usual criticizing Altaf’s statement by calling it an attempt to derail the ‘democratic’ set up. Instead of discussing the lead given by the MQM leader and debating the technicalities of his viewpoint for finding a solution the politicians are hell-bent on exploiting a rare opportunity of fixing Pakistan’s corrupted political setup.
Altaf’s call for revolution to rescue Pakistan and its people from the clutches of feudal lords, corrupt politicians and plunderers of national wealth is not an invite to the military to take over but is very much inline with the Constitution. The Supreme Court could invoke Article 190 and ask for aid from Army when the Executive refuses to take action on its verdict. It seems that there is no other way to get rid of this 63 year old elected despondency as the rotation of same families will continue and the public will keep bearing the same democratic dictators and their breed through out their life.
As far as criticism on Altaf Hussain’s statement is concerned, I believe it’s high time the politicians and the public keep the personal grudges aside and look for the real issues being highlighted by him. Living abroad in an ordinary house cum office and managing the party successfully is an art itself. We have witnessed various political parties being narrowed to their respective territories in Pakistan in the absence of their leaders.
Pakistanis have recently witnessed Army’s role as protectors of their lives from terrorists and natural calamities although approved by the nation at large, it received recognition by outspoken Altaf Hussain, who has urged them to clean the society from elected despondency. MQM has floated an idea for building the effective and inclusive government which Pakistan deserves. It is now up to us as a Nation, whether to bring about change or opt to worship Bhuttos, Pagaras, Makhdooms and Shareefs.
An op ed in Tribune Blogs
The Earth Fairy
A Beautiful girl in her new Eid outfit in flood affected relief camp (Karachi) surprisingly looking at the camera
Mountain Dew embraces Islam
Taliban Beverages recently held a conversion ceremony for one of the Pepsi Co’s famous brands Mountain Dew, which took place at the local retail outlet.
Mountain Dew, a soft drink distributed by PepsiCo, but remains its own brand recited Kalimah in the presence of Makkah Cola and other Muslim soft drinks.
They later chose Mountain Dews Muslim name ‘Muslim Dew’. Meanwhile Pepsi Co and Coca Cola Beverages have shown deep concerns over growing Islamization of their brands and called it a forceful conversion.
In a recent interview a Pepsi Co. official on the condition of anonymity said that radical Mountain Dew fans, who hit the headlines recently after their activists were accused of introducing Makkah Cola, were aiming to convert Pepsi Co. Pakistan into a “Muslim Beverages Organization” in the next 20 years.
Source: Taliban Times
Pakistan Floods
The United Nations has now estimated that Pakistan will need billions of dollars to recover from its worst floods in 80 years – further straining a country already dependent on foreign aid to prop up its economy and back its war against against Terrorism. Over 60,000 troops are involved in flood relief operations trying to assist nearly 14 million people who are now affected by the flooding. On the other hand people of Pakistan of are also not motivated enough to help their brothers and sisters of flood affected areas because of the lack of trust on Government, they are not sure whether their aid will pass to the victims.
This catastrophe is perceived as bigger than the 2005 Kashmir earthquake, 2010 Haiti earthquake and The Tsunami.
This slideshow requires JavaScript.
Awkward Outbursts
This is indeed not something to beproud of but I often come across with this type of weird situation, I am not sure whether it happens to you as well but I usually burst out of laughing on awkward occasions.
Similarly, today when I heard about India’s request to Pakistan for rescuing 33 “Jawans” (soldiers) who are feared to have been washed away in flash floods caused by cloudbursts towards the Azad Kashmir, I burst out laughing.
I mean I just couldn’t control. How on earth could 33 JAWANS of Emerging Superpower be swept away, it surely would have been a sight to behold. ROFLMAO -
Indian soldiers moving I mean sweeping towards Pakistan through river like paper boats. OMG!
I was imagining with what face Indian authorities would be requesting Pakistani Generals and what word they would have chosen to make a plea.
Dear Sir,
Our Soldiers have been flushed towards Pakistan and they must be coming to you, please pick them in between..
Hahahaha!
My Write-ups at Express Tribune
- Rehman Malik tops 2011 ‘Hall of Shame’
- PTI, PML-N, MQM…all rally, no change
- Let’s play: 20 questions for Zulfiqar Mirza
- Top 12 Bizarre petitions in Pakistani courts
- World Cup conspiracies: Bal Thackeray is an ISI agent
- KESC sacking: Wrong time for the right decision
- Pakistan’s mullahpoly: My way or the highway
- Do we need to rethink segregation?
- (Un)quotable quotes from Pakistan’s best
- An awami style dictator
Recent Comments