The sharp surge in crime rate in recent days in Pakistan is alarming. The limitation of law enforcement agencies and the justice delivery system failed to curtail crimes in the country. In almost all big cities, street crimes, organized crimes, and sponsored crimes have shown a sharp increase.
There might be multiple reasons for the increase in crimes, but the most important is political instability and the rite of the government. The rulers are not sure how long they will be sitting in this position and are afraid of a sudden change in the politics of the country. They might not feel safe staying in this country if some political unrest starts. So their priorities are very different from the expectations of the general public.
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Understanding the root causes
The largest political party is out of power and a collection of several political parties are running the country. All alliance partners are diversified in nature, – ideology, manifesto, agenda, etc. Their interests are also diversified and actions are a variety of manners different from each other. PML (N) is not in a position to rule the country alone and has to keep all allied parties happy and fulfill their demands and interests out of proportionate.
When the Government is naive and has different priorities, the criminals have more freedom and opportunities to commit more crimes. A major part of the police force is deputed on VIP duties and protocols. Courts are more indulged in political cases. Who will counter criminals, and who will protect common citizens?
Whereas some influential people are backing criminals and they are so strong that Judiciary and law enforcement agencies cannot face them. This situation was prevailing in far-flung areas of Pakistan, but, recently, it has been witnessed in settled areas including big cities. Islamabad, the capital of the country is also no longer safe. The theft, snatching of purses, mobiles, robberies, killings, kidnapping, Qabza (Illegal occupation), illegitimate encroachments, sexual harassment and you name any crime, you will find in Islamabad.
Islamabad, being the capital is the house of the international community
Many diplomatic missions, UN organizations, multinational companies, and a huge number of foreigners are residing in Islamabad. Capital is always the face of the country and reflects the true picture of a nation. What image we are projecting about Pakistan?
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Although inflation and price hike has made life difficult for the average Pakistani, the destitute are left with no option than “crimes”. The prices of daily commodities, including food, are becoming out of reach for many people. The source of income is not on enhancement, but, the cost of living is getting higher to higher on weekly basis.
Unprecedented heavy floods have worsened the situation and victims of the flood are not getting in time adequate assistance. So they are also left with no option for their “crimes”. There are reports of organized crimes by flood victims.
Intolerance, extremism, and terrorism are reviving again. In recent months, terrorist attacks have abnormally increased. The number of personals in the Armed forces who sacrificed their precious lives has gone up.
Scholars, intellectuals, policymakers, politicians, leaders, and civil and military institutions, must think seriously and come up with some doable action plan to address the surging crime rates. Irrespective of political differences, above ethnic or factions interests, genuine efforts must be made to make this society tolerant and safe.
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A free and fair election on an early possible date may form a stable government, which should launch comprehensive reforms and policies to protect the nation and individual citizens. Pakistan is a capable nation and can overcome all crises if provided with enabling environments. May Allah protect Pakistan!
Prof. Engr. Zamir Ahmed Awan, Founding Chair GSRRA, Sinologist (ex-Diplomat), Editor, Analyst, Non-Resident Fellow of CCG (Center for China and Globalization). (E-mail: awanzamir@yahoo.com). The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the editorial policy of Global Village Space.