This letter refers to the article ‘Can’t take them on’ (March 3, 2024) by Ghazi Salahuddin. Sadly, I find myself in agreement with the writer’s evaluation of Pakistani society. However, the writer appears to expect our rulers to do something about this dire situation by tackling intolerance. The harsh reality is that nobody in authority can directly confront the huge number of citizens that espouse these violent and narrow-minded ideas.
The best that can be done is to change attitudes and thinking over the long term, via institutions like the media. Education and awareness, guided by a careful and sensitive approach, are also necessary. There must be some serious thought and planning on this issue. Meanwhile, I think we can all play a minor role in our own lives by raising our children to be tolerant and by advising friends and family to find peaceful solutions to various contentious matters.
Ilyas M B Khan
Mansehra