Battle of the mind

This refers to the article, ‘Pathankot lessons’ (January 11) by Syed Talat Hussain. The article has focused on the crux of the problem – the non-implementation of the National Action Plan. The offensive against terrorism is two-pronged: battle of the bullet and of the mind. The latter, which is the exclusive responsibility of the civilian government, has not even commenced in earnest. We should know that no strategic effects can be created unless NAP is implemented. Tactical successes in the field cannot rectify strategic neglects. There is a centre of gravity in every war that has a vital impact on the final outcome – victory or defeat. In the war on terror, this centre of gravity lies in the mindset of the people.

To the extent that the implementation of NAP is neglected, people – including security forces – will continue to pay the price with their lives. All that is to be done in this regard is clearly indicated in NAP. However, the central point of this venture is: extermination of sectarianism and extremism by all possible means, and especially a qualitative change in madressah education.

Brig (r) Usman Shah

Rawalpindi