Countering extremism

The hanging of Mumtaz Qadri after the president refused his mercy petition was certainly a correct and courageous decision of the government. This may not have been possible before the change – after the APS tragedy – in the mindset of the authorities and the people at large.

Qadri’s execution has created a sharp division among people. Thousands thronged Qadri’s funeral. Most religious parties were represented at the funeral. It is scary to note that many rational and educated people are indignant at Qadri’s hanging because they think what he did was justified. To counter this extremist narrative, a counter-narrative based on logic and reason has to be developed in society. There is no doubt that the policies of our rulers – both civilian and military – have led to the radicalisation of society.

Akbar Jan Marwat

Islamabad