Academic freedom

It is a positive development that the Senate has expressed concern over the bad law and order situation in Balochistan. In a country awash with endless problems, it is preposterous that our possible participation in the Yemen conflict continues to make headlines. This is indicative of our misplaced priorities and focus. Instead of Yemen, the situation in Balochistan should be talked about.
Central to this is the academic freedom that has been violated recently with the forced cancellation of a debate on Balochistan. This fresh state intrusion has not only highlighted the persistent threat to our liberties and freedom in a democratic regime but has also glaringly emphasised the need to have a conversation about Balochistan that has been delayed and stifled for too long at huge cost to the Baloch and Pakistan.
Hafsa Khawaja
Lahore