People are talking about—

--- how, despite many years of activism, crimes against women have persisted, indicating that the issue is complex and requires a comprehensive approach. It is unfortunate that men are often judged collectively for the actions of a few, while a similar stance towards women is readily deemed unjust. People say adding to this mindset of thinking, negative articles deepen gender divisions instead of promoting empathy and equality, so a more balanced perspective is necessary for true social progress.

--- the good news that the conservation and restoration of the historic Gurdwara Bhai Karam Singh in Jhelum has begun, as it is a significant site for the Sikh religion. People say Jhelum is an ancient city, renowned for its rich history and cultural heritage so this initiative to restore the Gurdwara to its original state is expected to boost tourism and since it is part of a historical complex that includes other buildings, hopefully the government will be motivated to conserve them all.

--- the fact that rural development and those who live there has remained a low priority for successive governments, the reason why, when they get the opportunity to settle in big cities, they readily leave causing unmanageable urbanisation and related problems. Authorities need to rethink the policy for accelerating development by setting up research centres and promoting research in agriculture and applied economics, in particular while promoting small-scale industry and livestock which is essential to alleviate poverty and uplift rural areas.

--- the sugar price conundrum and the government’s inability or unwillingness to rein in these powerful players of the industry, as despite warnings from the ECC, sugar exports were allowed and price stability has not materialised. Now, as the prices soar, the public is confused. People say the solution to the crisis is simple but requires the political will - exports should be stopped and domestic supply demand ensured, while rumour-mongers spreading false claims about production shortfalls must be dealt with swiftly and decisively.

--- the poor coverage on the anniversary of the fall of Dhaka, one of the most tragic chapters in national history and in ignoring it, we lose the opportunity to learn. People say it is not just history; it is a reminder of how internal divisions and poor leadership can destroy a nation and external forces can exploit its weaknesses, so to avoid repeating these mistakes our leaders must understand the significance of democracy and the need to respect the voice of the people.

--- the pros and cons of social media, which has transformed not only in terms of how information is disseminated but also how it influences public perception and decision making. People say when information travels at lightning speed, public opinion can also be shaped almost instantaneously but the solution lies not in trying to control but counter fake news with facts and the government should work on its credibility, so the public has more faith in it than social media. – I.H.