— the report that the historical fort in Turbat, also known as Punnu Fort, is suffering from lack of official attention even though the preservation of such an important heritage should be a matter of priority. There is not much historical data available on the Fort but what there is shows that it dates back to 5000 BC, the second oldest fort after Mehergarh (3000BC) and was constructed with three types of different blocks, which adds to its beauty.
— how the state still uses colonial modes of authoritarian rule, which rely on patronage and favouritism to secure top to down support, rather than enabling representation of the people from the bottom to the top. The elite’s encroachment on the country’s political economy shows no sign of weakening but they will no longer be able to continue enjoying their privileged status, unless they seriously begin investing in the ordinary people who make up the bulk of the Pakistani nation
— the propensity by some educational institutions for putting pictures of girls who have achieved distinction in their studies on bill boards. While this is a good gesture to show appreciation, in this day and age when social media can be used for ill intent, it is not a good idea - these images can be copied on mobile phones by some criminal elements and used to defame the girls for no reason whatever, except maliciousness, causing them and their families distress.
— the good news that the century old public library in Ziarat has been reopened after seventeen years, thanks to the personal efforts of the Deputy Commissioner, a book lover who was shocked to learn that built during the British era, the public library was shut down in 2007 to give way for setting up his office. Feeling it was his obligation to restore the library for the public, he appealed for books, getting an overwhelming response from home and abroad.
— the news that 11000 housing schemes in residential areas of Punjab’s eleven districts do not have requisite approvals from the authorities and while the report conceded that there was a lack of regulation and enforcement regarding private housing schemes in the province, despite sufficient legal provisions, people wonder how this was possible without the connivance of those who are supposed to see that such things do not happen.
— the plan by the authorities to block SIMS of income tax evaders and how the telecom sector is resisting the move because it may affect their revenue. People say blocking SIMS is a drastic move but if evaders refuse to comply with the rules, there is no other easier option, as long as the blocking is done fairly, including all non-complying outlets, not just the smaller ones because unfortunately, everyone knows how influential people apply pressure for their own benefit.
— the fact that ever since cronies of powerful persons and political appointees have been getting appointed heads of sports bodies and organizations, our performance on the field and at key international tournaments has declined, while large numbers of sports officials accompanying players to these events, enjoy free junkets. Appointment of retired officers and favourites to head these organizations has not benefited sports in any way, so all such organizations should be headed by professionals with integrity, appointed on merit. — I.H.