This is in reference to an incisive piece, ‘Space for the individual’ (Dec 4, TNS), by Dr Kamran. According to the writer, in a modern egalitarian state, a dialectical relationship is developed between the state and society. In such a relationship, space is provided for the individual in which he/she asserts himself/herself. In most post-colonial and authoritarian states like Pakistan, space for the individual is considerably squashed because the state establishes a complete sway over society. After the passing of The Objectives Resolution in 1949, the bureaucratic state completely impinged upon the social sphere. Legitimacy by the state was drawn not from history and tradition but from religion. This trend further intensified in the 1980s.
The way forward for leftist scholars in Pakistan is the primacy of society over the state. Intellectual leadership and stimulus should emanate from academia. The individual should also be allowed to challenge the state and societal narrative.
Akbar Jan Marwat
Islamabad
It really does not matter if Pakistan’s forex reserves are at rock bottom and we barely have enough, even if we...
Cheap electric power could be the panacea for most of our financial problems. Cheap power will gradually reduce...
The Islamabad model jail will initially have a capacity for ab estimated 2000 inmates, with future provisions to...
We have over 10 million unemployed youth who must be equipped with the technical skills required for employment. This...
The current discussion on exporting excess sugar from Pakistan brings back memories of past challenges. Exporting too...
Pakistan has a growing population but not enough jobs are being created. This leads to many young people struggling to...