Roots of violence

The menace of sectarian violence is not new to Pakistan. Even before the creation of Pakistan, sectarian clashes used to occur in the Subcontinent. There was harmony between major sects in the initial years after Pakistan was created. However, the sectarian divide widened over time.

Worshippers have been targeted at mosques and imambargahs. Sectarian violence is no longer limited to isolated localities and has become widespread. It has spread its tentacles and, if left unchecked, will soon impact areas which were once considered to be free of sectarian riots. If sectarian violence continues at the same pace, Pakistan will descend into chaos. It is therefore vital to address the root causes of sectarian clashes to immediately prevent the problem from spreading further.

Adeel Khan

Islamabad