Does India Seriously Need a Domestic Activity?

Aasef Chauhdry

There is not an iota of doubt left about the Karachi incident of 13 May in which 45 innocent Pakistanis, belonging to Ismaili Sect, have been brutally killed, that it was the typical work of the notorious Indian intelligence agency RAW. At least 45 people were killed and 11 people were injured in an attack on a bus carrying members of Ismaili community near Safoora Chowrangi in Gulistan-e-Jauhar area of Karachi. According to the reports, 60 people were on board the bus when gunmen opened fire and killed 43 passengers on the spot, killing the bus driver first by using 9 mm pistols to carry out the attack. However, some sources claimed that the attackers used semi-machine guns (SMGs) also, in the attack. An eye-witness said at least a dozen men riding on three motorcycles opened indiscriminate fire on a bus, wounding several passengers. The attackers who were dressed as security guards managed to escape from the scene after the incident. The gunmen stopped the bus and first fired at it from outside then they entered inside the bus and open fire indiscriminately. After that they checked to see if anyone was left uninjured. The Indian agency RAW is in habit of raising her head on some other front when it’s snubbed on one front. This is happening since many decades. The Indian spy masters strongly believe in keeping Pakistan on edge, disturbed and busy with an aim to keep it disturbed and backward.

It’s a tricky game being played by the seasoned and clever Indian dirty masterminds who have an aim to prevent China and Pakistan from joining hands for a revolutionary economic corridor. The China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a development megaproject which aims to connect Gwadar Port in southwestern Pakistan to China’s northwestern autonomous region of Xinjiang, via a network of highways, railways and pipelines to transport oil and gas. The economic corridor is considered central to China-Pakistan relations and will run about 3,000 km from Gwadar to Kashgar. Overall construction costs are estimated at $46 billion, with the entire project expected to be completed in several years. The Corridor is an extension of China’s proposed 21st century Silk Road Initiative. According to a Firstpost report, “this is the biggest overseas investment by China announced yet and the corridor is expected to be operational within three years and will be a strategic game changer in the region, which would go a long way in making Pakistan a richer and stronger entity than ever before.”However, the Pakistani media and government called the investments a “game as well as a fate changer” for the region. According to The Guardian, “The Chinese are not just offering to build much-needed infrastructure but also make Pakistan a key partner in its grand economic and strategic ambitions.” The project will also open trade routes for Western China and provide China direct access to the resource-rich Middle East region, bypassing longer logistical routes currently through the Strait of Malacca. During the State visit of Chinese president Xi Jinping to Pakistan in April 2015, he wrote in an open editorial that “This will be my first trip to Pakistan, but I feel as if I am going to visit the home of my own brother.” During his visit, Islamabad was dotted with slogans and signboards such as “Pakistan-China friendship is higher than the mountains, deeper than the oceans, sweeter than honey, and stronger than steel.”

It’s known to all and sundries that a couple of foreign spy agencies are quite active in various parts of Pakistan. Besides Indian RAW, Israeli Mossad and Afghan NDS, the Iranian, German, British MI and American CIA also are busy in different terror activities in Pakistan, directly or indirectly.  Pakistani agencies got details regarding involvement of some of these agencies in Karachi killings and Balochistan conflict. According to the Pakistani newspaper reports, Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) is playing leading role in Karachi Target Killings. Pakistani secret Agency has found clear evidence regarding the involvement of the Indian elements in terrorism activities in Karachi.

Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan also strongly condemned the attack and expressed grief over the murder of citizens. He has rightly doubted the performance of the provincial government pertaining to peace in the province. On the other hand, Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif cancelled his visit to Sri Lanka and departed for Karachi following the attack on Ismaili community members in the city. According to the Director General Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Asim Bajwa’s tweet, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Raheel Sharif on Wednesday cancelled his pre-scheduled three-day visit to Sri Lanka in light of the attack in Karachi, while the sad side of the story is that when the news about the tragic incident was given to a very important government personality, his answer was, “Let’s see after the lunch”.

After this bloody killing, late night SSP Malir announced the arrest of two terror suspects, whom he claimed were members of Indian spy agency RAW (Research and Analysis Wing). The most shameful part of the story is that according to the SSP, the suspects; Tahir alias Lamba and Mama Junaid also belonged to the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) and had been sent to India for training in the past. His investigation revealed that the members of MQM, went to India through Indian-held Kashmir, were trained there by India’s intelligence agency RAW and then came back to Pakistan to spread terror.

India’s intelligence agency is often named by Pakistani officials for its alleged execution, training and funding of terrorist activities in the country. For its part, India has always denied such claims and called for evidence to be brought forward. Pakistan foreign secretary in his media talk on 14 may 2015 claimed that Indian Agency RAW is involved in creating bad condition in Pakistan. He assured that Raw is involved to unstable Pakistan in Sindh and Balochistan also in the KPK and Northern Areas of Pakistan in form of TTP and other elements. Before that ISPR had also endorsed the identical remarks about RAW’s involvement in Pakistan.

It has been observed that an India in trouble would always lick Pakistan’s feet; nevertheless, an India out of trouble would ensure Pakistan thrown into hell fire. We have the apt examples of 1971, Khalistan Movement and Kashmir liberation Movement when India was at its weakest. If the disgraceful characters would have not handed over the Sikhs lists to India and would have not stabbed the Kashmiris in the back the scenario would have been different by now. It looks that this is high time that the Indians should seriously be given some domestic activity to keep them busy at home, if someone really want Pakistan to see prospering.

Memory of the Swat Operation

By Sajjad Shaukat

The memory of the Swat Operation still remains in the mind, though it started on May 16, 2009. The area was successfully cleared by Pakistan’s Armed Forces of any terrorists. In this regard, Swat peace accord was signed on February 15, 2009 between the government and the militants led by Sufi Muhammad, head of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). It was agreed to establish Nizam-e-Adl in Malakand Division and Kohistan District of Hazara in return for Maulvi Fazlullah (Sufi’s son-in-law) led militants, surrendering arms and refraining from all sorts of violent acts. Meanwhile, National Assembly had passed the Nizam-e-Adl Regulation. But, by transgressing the peace pack, Taliban re-initiated their previous practice of beheadings, kidnappings, attacks on the check posts of the security forces etc. In Swat, their anti-social, anti-Islam and inhuman tactics such as attacks on government buildings, girls’ school, video shops and police stations, using car suicide bombers had also been destabilizing Pakistan. In some regions, particularly in Swat, Taliban leaders had created states within the state, and had been involved in a number of crimes such as drug-smuggling, forced marriages, hostage-takings for ransom and car-snatching. Moreover, by setting aside the terms of the peace agreement, the Taliban equipped with heavy weapons started making checkpoints, strengthening their position in Swat and Dir. They refused to renounce arms, and even entered Buner.

In these adverse circumstances, the military operations were re-conducted to restore peace in these affected areas, and to get rid the innocent people of the brutalities of the Taliban. Overwhelming public, belonging to every province of Pakistan and all the segments of society supported the Swat and Malakand military operations, as majority of the people are against the Taliban style of Sharia. An all-parties conference (APC) vowed to unite the nation against insurgency in these regions, pledging to end terror. In this respect, in May 16, 2009, Pakistan’s Armed Forces started military operation in Swat. And, within less than three months, Pakistan’s forces successfully ejected the well-trained and well-armed Taliban militants out of Buner, Dir, Swat and other adjoining areas. By sacrificing their lives, our forces killed and captured thousands of the militants—breaking their backbone by eliminating their control and command structure. Reports suggested that tens thousands of the It is mentionable that during the Swat Operation, the TTP militants had been supported by some foreign secret agencies, especially Indian RAW. Through their well-established networks in Afghanistan, they were sending arms and weapons to the Swat-based terrorists with a view to weakening Pakistan which is the only nuclear country in the Islamic World.

In fact, the different war between Pakistan’s Armed Forces and the TTP insurgents in Swat was simply a ‘clash of wills’ between two entities. Military thinkers agree that although the physical force will determine the type and scale of war, yet it is the ‘will to fight’ or ‘moral force’ that determines the outcome of war. Clausewitz puts it this way, “One might say that the physical force seems little more than the wooden hilt, while moral factors are the precious metal, the real In his book, “Fighting Power: German and U.S. Army Performance, 1939-1945”, Creveld identifies the elements of ‘moral force’, whom he calls “fighting power, the willingness to fight and the readiness, if necessary, to die.” The greater these elements, the less vulnerable an armed force will be to demoralization. ‘Moral force’, then, is the crucial factor in determining the combat power of any belligerent.

During the successful military operation, retreat of the Taliban from Swat has proved that such elements like ‘will to fight’ and ‘moral force’ have been more noted in Pakistan’s Armed Forces who have exerted psychological impact of causing fear and shock, resulting into demoralization Nevertheless, there are various causes which demoralized the insurgents of Swat. Firstly, high ‘moral force’ and ‘will to fight’ coupled with strong determination and cohesiveness as noted in Pakistan’s Armed Forces played a key role in expelling Taliban out of Swat. In this regard, airstrikes by Pakistan Air Force targeted their strongholds. And during street to street fighting, without bothering for their lives, and by air-dropping commandos at the risky places, our forces made a great headway in disrupting the Taliban supply routes. They besieged them at various hotspots, rendering them unable to send reinforcements to their fighters. Secondly, morale of Pak Army was very high. Thirdly, local people started denying the Taliban sanctuaries, and disrupted their links with each other. Fourthly, general masses of Swat opposed the brutal acts of these terrorists which compelled them to leave their houses. They came to know that under the cover of Islamic laws—terror, not Sharia was militants’ real agenda. Hence, they were misusing Jihad which does not allow suicide attacks in killing their own Muslim brethren.

Taking cognizance of the recent terror-attacks, some media anchors and commentators misperceived that TTP militants have still capacity to continue subversive activities. In fact, Pakistan’s Armed Forces have successfully broken the backbone and organized capability of terrorists to launch well thought-out attacks against the government assets. They have met serious setbacks in operation Zarb-e-Azb, and shall finally be totally eliminated from Pakistan. It appears, as if the militants of TTP have lost major grounds, and in severe frustration, they are trying to create some kind of so-called pressure on the government and the Armed Forces which have castigated them to put up strong resistance. It is notable that when the heavy-armed Taliban entered Swat, Dir and Buner, on April 23, 2009, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton had stated that Pakistan’s nuclear weapons could fall into the hands of terrorists. But, when Pakistan’s Armed Forces ejected the Taliban insurgents out of the affected areas, then American high officials including Ms. Clinton had admired the Without any doubt, we can conclude that it was because the ‘moral force’ of Pakistan’s Armed Forces, which defeated the insurgents of Swat.

Email: sajjad_logic@yahoo.com

Indian Cultural Invasion on Pakistan

By Sajjad Shaukat

Socialists agree that historical background and national character play a key in moulding the behaviour pattern of a country’s people, while customs and beliefs also influence the thoughts of individuals. But electronic media of the rival countries have accelerated the process in formulating the opinion of persons against each other. In these terms, as part of psychological warfare, besides supporting subversive acts in our country, India has started cultural penetration in Pakistan through movies, dramas, shows and advertisements which are directly targeting our own ideology and cultural values. The practice amounts to Indian culture invasion on Pakistan. In this regard, Pakistan government issued licenses to various TV channels with a view to earning revenue, showing utter disregard to the core values of our culture.

However, the job of media houses has been facilitated by some of us by encouraging projection of Indian films and dramas including advertisements. Shameless interest groups are promoting foreign contents just to protect their monetary benefits. Meanwhile, the civil society has resisted this practice through their meager voice, but those enjoying political, social and economic influence favoured storming attack of external media instruments which have power and the ability to kill without firing any bullet. In such situation, any uncertain and cynic grain of mistrust injected through Indian media will never allow us to strengthen our real values and beliefs as Muslims. Therefore, the hostile elements, as Indian TV channels also target us with their cartoons and animated caricatures. The aim is to capture Pakistan’s loyal audience of the future and injecting them with dissenting thought to challenge the teachings and traditions of Islamic culture including ideology of Indian hostile propaganda against our customs and beliefs advances at a gradual pace, starting with a positive thought and supporting a just event. But, it contains deeply entrenched acrimony to create sense of suspicion amongst our youth who are passing through a formative stage of development and are at the initial phase of understanding their religious beliefs, cultural norms Besides Indian films and dramas, Pakistan’s cable networks also display Indian commercials on our channels, projecting Indian products and consumer goods. In such phenomenon, people, especially the youth and female audience are likely to prefer brand of Indian products and goods.

On the other side, New Delhi does not allow telecast of Pakistani dramas and movies on Indian soil. In this context, New Delhi has adopted very strict policy of restricting Pakistani channels, being broadcasted in India. In August 2009, Indian daily, “The Asian Age” disclosed that the Indian government banned Pakistani TV channels in its country and it was also planning to establish high-frequency transmitters and towers in the bordering areas to stop transmission of But, Indian rulers’ decision was taken as a preventive move to keep the new generation ignorant about other side of the coin—from Pakistani media, while continuing Indian propaganda against. Nevertheless, more shocking aspect is that there is not lack of supporters of Indian TV channels in Pakistan. These internal elements neglect the fact that the Indian media, news or entertainment tend to malign Pakistan and to dominate its culture rather than to entertain the audience. In fact, Indian film industry often makes movies against Pakistan which project our country as a villain.

Pakistan-bashing, denigrating Pakistan and burning its flag are common in Hindi films. Such films are exempted from heavy taxes and win prestigious awards, even if they totally flop in the It is mentionable that with the rapid development of science, range of the TV channels has been extended to many countries.  And, India has deliberately been sending high electronic waves so that its cultural propaganda could reach every part of Pakistan. In this respect, particularly, Indian films, dramas and special-shows which display dances and songs including cartoons and caricatures are full of obscenity and vulgarity. These sorts of entertainment, seen by our youngsters and teenagers are negatively influencing their minds, as being immature; they are becoming more prone to Indian media’s propaganda campaign. It is regrettable that owing to the absence of a clear-cut media policy, some renowned private TV channels of Pakistan are also following suit, and present dance competition shows in imitation of Indian programmes by displaying, as if dance is a part of our culture. There is also a misconception among the supporters of Indian channels in our country that both the neighbouring countries share a common culture.

Pakistan’s viewers must know that in one of his speeches, while explaining separate culture of Muslims, Quaid-e-Azam said, “We are a nation with our own distinctive culture and civilization, language and literature, art and architecture, names and nomenclature, sense of values and proportion, legal laws and moral code, customs and calendar, history and tradition, aptitudes and ambitions; in short, we have our own distinctive outlook on life and of life.” There are number of countries which allow access of their citizens to the government-controlled Internet only. In order to protect the nation particularly the youth, the concerned authorities must take immediate note of Indian cultural penetration in Pakistan, against our traditions, and values. In this connection, first of all, the right option is that Indian contents should be banned in Pakistan. For the purpose, proper legislation or law could prohibit TV channels and cable networks which show Indian programmes. And, there is need to promote our own culture by helping our TV channels and film industry, making them lucrative so that Pakistani talent could divert their energies in serving their own audience. Once Pakistani artists and audience are satisfied with local means of entertainment, they will not depend on Indian channels. Media houses should also realize their responsibilities and discourage facilitating or proliferating the Indian contents and help the government in its drive. Nonetheless, Indian cultural invasion needs to be stopped through a strong national commitment to ‘Say no to Indian cultural onslaught’ and ‘No Indian movies’ in Pakistan.

Sajjad Shaukat writes on international affairs and is author of the book: US vs Islamic Militants, Invisible Balance of Power: Dangerous Shift in International Relations

Email: sajjad_logic@yahoo.com

US Concerns Over Indian Minorities

Sajjad Shaukat

It is surprising that media did not take much notice of the report of a US Congress-established panel which has shown serious concerns over the maltreatment of religious minorities in India. In this regard, on April 30, in its annual report 2015, the US Commission on International Religious Freedom said, “Since the [last year’s] election, religious minority communities have been subject to derogatory comments by politicians linked to the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and numerous violent attacks and forced conversions by Hindu nationalist groups, such as Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP). The report pointed out, “Hindu groups had announced plans in December to forcibly reconvert at least 4,000 Christian families and 1,000 Muslim families to Hinduism in Uttar Pradesh as part of a so-called ‘ghar wap’' (homecoming) programme…the Hindu groups sought to raise money for their campaign, noting that it cost nearly 200,000 rupees per Christian and 500,000 rupees per The Panel asked the Obama Administration to press the Indian government to publicly rebuke officials and religious leaders who make derogatory remarks about various communities However, as part of anti-Muslim and anti-Christian approach, leader of the BJP and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is giving impetus to Hindu chauvinism. Indian society is rapidly radicalizing, as unprecedented rise of Hindu extremism has posed serious threats to the very existence of the religious minorities.

It is amazing that theoretically, Indian Constitution safeguards the rights of minorities, but in practice, ideology of Hindutva (Hindu nationalism) prevails. Hindu majority led by the BJP has shown complete disregard to it, and commit excesses and cruelties against Muslims, Sikhs, Christians and Dalits with impunity. Hindu politics and culture, dominated by the fundamentalist parties such as BJP, VHP, Shiv Sena and RSS including other extremist outfits have been propagating Hindutva. Provocative utterances of their extremist leaders have resulted into unending violence especially against the It is mentionable that Hinduvta agenda enabled BJP hardliner, Narendra Modi to get a land sliding triumph in the Indian elections 2014. In this respect, RSS driven anti-Muslim move of the BJP including other Hindu fanatic parties could be judged from various developments. On May 28, 2014, Rashtriya Hindu Andolan, a Mangalore-based Hindutva outfit and activists from various right wing groups organized a protest in Mangalore in front of the office of Deputy Commissioner by demanding the authorities to ban the morning Muslim call to prayer (Azan) across the country. Besides forcing the Muslim employee in a Parliament Canteen by BJP leader to break his fast by stuffing piece of bread in his mouth, statement of Deputy Chief of Goa, declaring India as a Hindu state might be cited as example.

It is noteworthy that in 1992, a large crowd of Hindu Karsevaks (volunteers) in accordance with a preplanned scheme of the Indian high officials entirely demolished the 16th-century Babri Masjid (mosque) to reclaim the land known as RAM Janmabhoomi–birthplace of the god. The destruction of the Babri Masjid sparked Muslim outrage around the country, provoking several months of inter-communal rioting between Hindu and Muslim communities, causing the death of at least 2,000 people, majority of whom were Muslims. Besides, massacre of 2500 Muslims in the in the BJP-ruled Indian state of Gujarat in 2002 and those of more than 2002 Muslims during the communal riots of 2008 in Uttar Pradesh—participation of Indian high officials and leaders of the VHP, BJP and Bajrang Dal in the incidents might also be cited as instance. Similarly, in the recent years, assaults on Christians, their churches and property have been executed by the Hindu mobs in various cities of India. In this connection, at least 100 Christians have been assassinated by Hindu extremists, mostly in the state of Orissa.

It is of particular attention that on November 7, 2011, leader of the VHP, Pravin Togadia, in his furious speech questioned the past of Muslims and Christians, and further gave a call to Hindus to capture the Islamic holy places in Arab and Vatican of Europe. It is worth-mentioning that forced conversions of other religious minorities into Hindus also continue. In this regard, Bajrang Dal, an offshoot of the RSS, converted at least 57 Muslim families (200 people) into Hindus at a ceremony in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. Previously, in early September 2014, Christians were also forcefully converted to Hindus which created unrest among Christian clergy. Recently, a similar event in Aligarh saw Christian families converting to Hinduism. Since installment of the BJP government in the center, this campaign has been accelerated. As regards persecution of minorities in India, Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission Testimony by Human Rights Watch presented before US Senate Committee on atrocious attitude of Hindu majority had highlighted the plight of minorities in India. The report was presented before Indian general elections 2014. But, it is strange that American government which had denied visa to Modi on the basis of his involvement in Gujrat genocide, allowed.

Nevertheless, some of the fanatic Hindu groups are not in favour of a separate and distinct culture for minorities. A Hindu fundamentalist namely Prof Balraj Madhok had suggested that the minorities must adopt Indian (Hindu) names. Now, schools and other educational institutions are being systematically Hinduized. References to Hindu gods and goddesses abound in the text books. Books, prescribed by the Education Boards contain lessons giving false stories of Muslim atrocities on Hindu women, kidnapping, Undoubtedly, Hindu fundamentalism is increasingly widening its influence everywhere and has already established for itself a firm base in every sector of the Indian society including bureaucracy, media, educational institutions, and the like. The hate campaign unleashed by the fundamentalist forces is keeping the minority wholly preoccupied with defending their basic human rights and cultural identity. Nonetheless, it is a good sign that the US has abandoned its double standard by showing grave concerns about mistreatment of Indian religious minorities. American said report has exposed Indian false claim of the largest democracy, acting upon the principles of liberalism and secularism. Now, the West and particular the US must take appropriate steps against New Delhi in this respect. Otherwise, Hindu extremists may cause World War 111 or clash of civilizations.

Email: sajjad_logic@yahoo.com

Traitors within the MQM

By Sajjad Shaukat

The Present Government led by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif launched the targeted operation in Karachi after obtaining consensus of all stakeholders like political parties, business community and members of civil society. For the purpose, Karachi was particularly handed over to the Rangers with power to take action against the culprits without any discrimination. In the past few years, gang warfare, criminal activities and target killings have taken the lives of thousands of persons including the personnel of the Rangers and Police in Karachi. A rise of sectarian violence has also resulted into several casualties.

Last year, leader of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) and Governor Sindh Ishratul Ibad Khan had submitted his resignation, as MQM dubbed the operation with the pretext that it is against its office bearers. While, this party had itself supported the operation, and even demanded to hand over Karachi to Army. Notably, MPA of MQM, Nadeem Hashmi was arrested on September 10, 2013 owing to firing at a police mobile in the Haideri area of the city in which the two policemen were killed. In the same month, some MQM workers were arrested, who were found involved in criminal activities, while the founder and leader of MQM Altaf Hussain had condemned the raid on MQM’s offices. Recently, the paramilitary force proved that the MQM was behind the Baldia Town factory fire in which 250 persons were killed. On February 8, this year, the Rangers also arrested a senior MQM worker namely Rafiq Rajput who not only ran a team of ‘hit men’ but was also involved in the May 12, 2007 carnage in the Karachi.

On February 10, Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan disclosed that MQM Chief Altaf Hussain based in London has let loose a “reign of terror” in Karachi. He elaborated, “Nobody is safe at the hands of the party’s armed wing…with the revelation of the Joint Investigation Team (JIT) report in which Hussain’s party has been held responsible for the killing of over 250 Baldia Town factory workers.” Earlier, Imran Khan also pledged to take Altaf Hussain to the British court, as he is also behind the killing of PTI’s leader Zahra Shahid and journalist Wali Babar in Karachi. However, some developments need attention, as these have proved that traitors are within the MQM. On April 30, this year, during a press conference, while presenting two terrorists who he claimed belonged to the MQM, SSP Malir, Karachi Rao Anwar disclosed, “Key MQM leaders have connections with Indian spy agency RAW”, adding that the arrested MQM workers had received training from RAW. He further said that the MQM was actively working against On the same day, the MQM leaders Dr Farooq and Rizvi strongly rejected accusations of SSP Anwar regarding his party’s affiliations with RAW. But, addressing his supporters via a telephonic address in Karachi, on the same day, Altaf Hussain not only criticized Pakistan’s armed forces, but also asked assistance from RAW. He also instructed his supporters to start “commando” training and to get arms—what MQM has been planning.

Next day, DG of ISPR Maj-Gen. Asim Bajwa called MQM chief’s speech disgusting—reference to the army or its leadership, adding that criminals’ links to political parties will not be tolerated. But, like his previous contradictory statements, on May 1, Altaf Husain again apologized for his derogatory remarks against Army, while praising the latter. He also backed out from his statement about seeking help from RAW. And his Karachi-based leadership also started presenting various clarifications to conceal the real face of its chief. It is notable that MQM’s leaders were already confused when on March 11, 2015, in a targeted operation, Rangers’ forces carried out a raid at Nine-Zero, the headquarters of the party in Karachi, and a large cache of illegal weapons were recovered and several criminals had also been arrested. In order to hide the anti-Pakistan activities, Altaf had again targeted Pak Army and ISI. Afterwards, he again admired these security agencies and Army Chief Gen. Raheel Sharif. Nevertheless, the real character of the MQM Chief Altaf Hussain also needs analysis. In this context, it is notable that sometimes, he blames Pak Army and ISI for harassing his party workers, calling the residents of Karachi to defend themselves, sometimes, he admires these security agencies, sometimes, he threatens to separate Karachi from the federation, sometimes, he shows a strong sense of patriotism for Pakistan, sometimes, he suspends the membership of his party’s committee or sector incharges, sometimes, he restores the same, sometimes, he submits his own resignations, sometimes, he takes it back, sometimes, he instructs his party to join Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz, and sometimes, Pakistan Peoples Party, especially when these parties are in government. He also blackmails these mainstream parties for the advantages of MQM at the cost of peace in Karachi.

In fact, changing stance of Altaf Hussain and clarifications of other MQM leaders in this connection show that they want to continue MQM’s armed wing including subversive activities It is mentionable that Zulfiqar Mirza, Sindh Home Minister and Senior Vice President of the then ruling party—Pakistan Peoples Party claimed on April 9, 2011 that he had been relieved from his ministry owing to pressure from the government’s coalition partner, the MQM. Mirza pointed out that the issue of target killing and extortion was just a ruse to remove him from his post. It is worth-mentioning that in June 3, 2014, Altaf Hussain was arrested by Scotland Yard Police in London. London Police and agencies were holding investigation against him in three cases including money laundering, after recovery of 7 Lac pounds from Altaf Hussain home and office in London—controversial speeches from London and Imran Farooq murder case. In this respect, in his article, Salman Mugsi wrote on August 27, 2011, “Altaf Hussain designated Waseem Akhtar in Karachi to arrange for the murder of Imran Farooq. Waseem Akhtar gave this task to Khalid Shameem and Hammad Siddiqui, who are incharge of militant wing of the MQM in Karachi. Khalid Shameem picked two boys from the student wing of MQM…who reached London, followed Imran Farooq for few days and noted his routines and then carried out his assassination according to the plan.”

It is of particular attention that a recent report of the JIT revealed that Saulat Mirza, the death row inmate and the former MQM’s worker, who recorded his statement before the JIT said that MQM had links with Indian RAW. Mirza confessed to killing 13 people, yet he was implicated As regards “Batha khauri”, everyone in Karachi knows that MQM has been collecting this illegal money from the local businessmen who are afraid of threats and terror-related actions of this party’s militant wing. While a majority of the innocent people of the city and followers of the MQM do not know the malpractices and criminal acts of this political party and are being misguided by their old leaders who act upon the directions of Altaf Hussain. The loyal Pakistanis, living in Karachi must know that Karachi is Pakistan’s largest port and financial hub with the largest commercial markets, collecting 70 per cent of the country’s tax revenue. So, besides causing unrest in the city, creating instability in Pakistan, another aim of the MQM is to cripple the economy of the city which is intermittently brought to a halt with shut- down strikes—many shops including other business centers are forced to be closed. And, old leadership of MQM misguides the people by propagating that national institutions are not made to develop other areas of Pakistan like Karachi, alleging that the establishment is once again doing the ethnic cleansing of Muhajirs. The residents of Karachi must be aware of the fact that Pakistan Army had given countless sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, while its top priority is to restore peace in the city. In this regard, Army Chief Gen. Raheel  vowed on April 29 to finish ‘all mafias’ in Karachi and made it clear that indiscriminate operation in the city would continue till its logical conclusion.

Nonetheless, understanding the ground realties, and for restoration of peace in Karachi, the residents of the city including moderate elements must make efforts for reorganization of MQM by replacing the old leaders like Altaf Hussain, Farooq Sattar etc. with the new ones. For the purpose, all the peace-loving segments of society of Karachi belonging to MQM will have to take bold decision jointly, without being afraid of MQM’s militant wing. These patriot-persons must not be misguided by the leaders of the party and its chief. They must know the traitors within the MQM.

Sajjad Shaukat writes on international affairs and is author of the book: US vs Islamic Militants, Invisible Balance of Power: Dangerous Shift in International Relations

Email: sajjad_logic@yahoo.com

Youm-e-Shuhada: The Real Heroes

By Sajjad Shaukat

Every year, the Pakistan Army commemorates Youm-e-Shuhada (Martyrs Day) on April 30 and the whole nation joins it to pay tribute to the departed souls of those valiant army officials who sacrificed their lives for the safety and security of the country and its people. Several ceremonies are being held at the Garrisons all over the country, but the main ceremony is being held at Yadqar-e-Shuhada, General Headquarters (GHQ) Rawalpindi. The families and relatives of the martyrs (Shuhada), serving and retired officers including people, belonging to various segments of society are invited to attend a function at the GHQ to pay tribute to the national heroes. Similarly, a sizeable number of near and dear ones of the martyrs are invited to attend the functions at the Corps Headquarters.

This time, Youm-e-Shuhada has come at a time when Pakistan and its armed forces have been facing a different war, while enemy is also different, which employs subversive activities of various kinds which also include internal and external challenges. In these terms, Pakistan is in In this respect, our Armed Forces have almost successfully obtained their objectives in North Waziristan Agency (NWA) including Khyber Agency through military operation Zarb-e-Azb against the terrorists who had challenged the writ of the state, and had frightened the entire nation by their terror-acts. Pakistan has perennially been facing subversive activities and sectarian violence in Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Karachi and other parts of the country including tribal areas where security forces are coping with the militants.

Externally, Pak Army and Rangers have boldly been responding to India’s unprovoked firing at the Line of Control in Kashmir and Working Boundary in Sialkot. While, the fundamentalist party BJP led by the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is implementing anti-Muslim and anti-Pakistan agenda. In this context, BJP leader Dr. Subramaniam Swamy, a staunch promoter of Hindutva (Hindu nationalism) stated on July 12, 2014 that India needed only two years to defeat Pakistan militarily, and the only solution of Kashmir was war, as “there is no peaceful, And, Pakistan’s security forces have also faced cross-border terrorism from Afghanistan side, encountering heavily-armed militants who from time to time, targeted Army’s check posts, and other civil and military installations.

However, services of Pak Army cannot be explained in words. They always make us proud. They stood first in the time of national crisis and natural calamities. Their untiring sincere efforts mark the defence of Pakistan with an ultimate assurance to safeguard the country at all heads. We are proud to have such great sons, because these are the heroes who really make history— the martyrs. The sacrifices of our Shuhada are what make our defence unconquerable. Pakistan’s armed forces are our strategic assets and first line of defence. Whether it be frustrating enemy’s nefarious designs on the borders and fighting off internal enemies, horrifying the state or it may be the difficult times of natural catastrophes, these bold soldiers have strengthened and fortified the motherland by leaving no stone unturned. Every Pakistani salutes to those brave sons of the soil, who always ensure our safety by keeping the frontiers safe. The alertness and resolve of our soldiers in looking out—day and night for all internal and external enemies, and who are always ready to confront the mayhems of severe conditions from the scorching deserts to the icy glaciers in the face of death with no fear—help the persons in tiring times of calamities, leaving their families behind in their determination to provide protection to all the families of our country, and thus make them real national heroes.

Today, the whole nation stands by our soldiers who are guarding our borders and days will prove that the war against terrorism will not finish us, while the terrorists themselves will be eliminated by our valiant soldiers who desire to be martyrs and are not afraid of death. Caravans of Shuhada will continue forever. We salute all the soldiers of Pakistan, who are sacrificing their today for our tomorrow. However, surely martyrs are gladly giving up their bodies to torture and death-the trustworthy heroes of our history.

Nevertheless, the importance of the Youm-e-Shuhada, this year has been increased, as the nation stood by forces when they have also been made target of malevolent campaign, being launched by the anti-Pakistan foreign entities. In this regard, while playing national songs on the occasion, the TV channels must also give a matching response to the hostile forces which are working against the integrity of the country, and are distorting the image of Pak Army. It is mentionable that last year, while offering Fateha for the martyrs Chief of Army Staff, Gen. Raheel Sharif delivered a remarkable speech at Yadgar-e-Shuhada ceremony. He said, “The commitment of Pakistan armed forces to democracy and the Constitution is a matter of satisfaction and also a matter of huge significance.” Gen. Raheel Sharif’s declaration of his devotion to media’s freedom and his tributes to the media were highly significant. He pointed out, “The people and the Army are on the same page on all the important matters.”

Gen. Raheel Sharif also expressed the Army’s point of view on terrorism and the Kashmir issue, and elaborated, He supports every attempt made for eliminating terrorism.” And, he convincingly highlighted the importance of the Kashmir issue, saying, “Pakistan is a peace-loving country, but if the country is ever subjected to aggression, it is fully capable of giving a Besides, stressing the need of unity among all segments of society, he concluded, “Pakistan’s armed forces are keeping a close vigil on the internal and external challenges and were fully capable of meeting all the threats to the security of the country…the armed forces remained alert round the clock for the defence of the motherland.” Nonetheless, during this very day, the Yaum-e-Shuhada, people of Pakistan laude the unparalleled sacrifices of the soldiers, paying them tribute, as they are the real heroes of the country.

Sajjad Shaukat writes on international affairs and is author of the book: US vs Islamic Militants, Invisible Balance of Power: Dangerous Shift in International Relations

Email: sajjad_logic@yahoo.com

Indian Function in Afghanistan Exposed

By Sajjad Shaukat

During his first visit to Pakistan, Afghanistan’s President Ashraf Ghani who was accompanied by high security officials also met Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff Gen. Raheel Sharif. President Ashraf lauded Pakistan’s efforts to combat terrorism. Besides mutual cooperation in other fields, Islamabad’s proposal to offer security and defence cooperation to Afghanistan was received Afghan President said, “His government and the people of Afghanistan desire to further strengthen bilateral relations with Pakistan in all areas of mutual interest. He elaborated, “We must overcome the past…we will not permit the past to destroy the future.”It is notable that Gen. Raheel accompanied by the DG of Inter-Services Intelligence agency (ISI), went to Kabul on December 17, 2014. During his meeting with his Afghan counterpart, President Ashraf Ghani and the ISAF commander, he presented the evidence of linkage between the massacre of children at Peshawar school and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) sanctuaries in Afghanistan. He also asked about action against the TTP chief Mullah Fazlullah and his network which is being assisted by India.

Similarly, Indian Prime Minister Modi was humbled by the US Secretary of State John Kerry when he met him during a recent official visit to India. During the meeting, American team got furious and showed some hard evidence of Mullah Fazalullah and RAW nexus in Afghanistan to It is mentionable that New Delhi which has already invested billion of dollars in Afghanistan, also signed a wide-ranging strategic agreement with that country on October 5, 2011. And, the then President Karzai had also signed another agreement with India to obtain Indian arms and weapons. However, under the cover of these agreements, India has further strengthened its grip Besides, Indian secret agency RAW has well-established its network in Afghanistan, and with the tactical assistance of anti-Pakistan secret agencies, it is fully backing cross-border incursions including terror-activities in Balochistan province and other regions of Pakistan, and is also destabilizing China and Iran.

As regards Balochistan, based in Afghanistan, particularly RAW has continuously been assisting the Baloch separatist groups like BLA to create lawlessness there. In this regard, Indian former Army Chief Gen. VK Singh openly admitted that during his tenure, he supervised special army unit, Tactical Support Division (TSD) to sponsor acts of sabotage, especially in Balochistan. In this context, after the recent visit of the Chinese President Xi Jinping to Pakistan, who signed 51 agreements for cooperation in various fields, related to China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)—between deep Gwadar seaport of Balochistan and the historic Silk Road city in western regions-Xinjiang of China, the director of The Second Floor (T2F), a social activist Sabeen Mahmud was shot dead by unidentified gunmen in Karachi on April 24, this year—followed by a bomb blast in Sibi, which killed several persons on April 26. However, she had left T2F after attending the session on Balochistan, when she was targeted. She was likely conduct a seminar at LUMS in Lahore about Balochistan. No doubt, RAW is behind the ssassination of Sabeen Mahmud-a well thought-out plan not only to try to sabotage Pak-China alliance, but also to accuse ISI. While, the DG, ISPR Maj-GEN,

Asim Bajwa strongly condemned the murder of Sabeen Mahmud, adding that intelligence agencies have been tasked to assist in the investigation of the However, taking note of Indian secret function, now, Afghan government and US has started taking action against the TTP. A number of TTP militants have been captured in Afghanistan, while Fazlullah survived in a drone attack.  Unlike the Karzai regime, Afghan leadership is visionary and desires to stay away from the Indian proxy wars in the region. Afghan new rulers are no   more   interested   in carrying forward the “Arms deal” with India and are only interested in socio-economic development, peace and stability in the region.

During his visit to India from April 27 to 29, Afghan President Ashraf is reportedly, interested in asking New Delhi to stop interference in Afghanistan and its neighbours. Due to exposed Indian links with TTP and Tehreek-e-Taliban Afghanistan (TTA), and her involvement in terrorist activities in Pakistan, India which is finding it hard to entice the new Afghan government, resultantly, feels   marginalized in the unfolding Afghan chessboard. Indian leadership is desperate and impatient to woo the new afghan leadership and to revive the bilateral relations to continue her evil designs towards Pakistan and China. To overcome growing feelings of frustration, Indian rulers may expand engagements with Afghan leadership, but Afghan Government which may fulfill the formality is not ready to support Indian maneuvers towards Beijing and Islamabad.

Taking advantage of Afghanistan’s dwindling economy, during the visit of President Ghani, Indian leadership is also expected to announce many incentives for Kabul by boasting about investing $2 billion in infrastructural and humanitarian projects in Afghanistan. Notably, India has not made any investment for the war torn country since   2012,   which exposes   its   sham   sincerity and commitment for Afghanistan. India has still been in thick contact with extremist terrorist outfits like TTP etc. A person namely Asim Umar (an Indian citizen of Utter Pardesh who had migrated to Pakistan in 1990) maneuvered to become Chief of Al Qaeda’s South Asia Chapter. He is a confirmed RAW agent and his organization is involved in an attempt to hijack PNS Zulfikar. He has even created AQIS women force under title of “Shaheen Force.”

Emergence of ISIS in Afghanistan (to counter-weight Taliban) has also connections with Indian security agencies, as majority of the groups, announcing allegiance with it, enjoyed good contacts with Indian RAW and were exploited as proxies against Pakistan. Recently, ISIS claimed incident in Jalalabad (Suicide attack) has also traces of Indian linkage. In fact, India through ISIS in Afghanistan is trying to counter Taliban. Moreover, RAW and anti-China secret agencies may step up activities by strengthening East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM) along Pak-China border to support terrorism in China. Undoubtedly, Indian secret function in Afghanistan has been exposed.

Sajjad Shaukat writes on international affairs and is author of the book: US vs Islamic Militants,

Invisible Balance of Power: Dangerous Shift in International Relations

Email: sajjad_logic@yahoo.com