Written by: Imran Shahid Bhinder
✿ The Divide Between Enlightenment and Sectarianism in Pakistan
In Pakistan, the distinction between enlightenment and sectarianism has become merely semantic. Self-proclaimed enlightened individuals criticize the Taliban, yet their criticism reflects sectarian bias more than genuine enlightenment.
❀ Criticism of the Taliban and Sectarian Bias
These so-called enlightened critics target Taliban terrorism, but the basis of their criticism is often sectarian.
When opponents of the Taliban are criticized, their inherent sectarian mindset becomes evident, even as they present themselves as progressive thinkers.
However, when these same enlightened individuals witness terrorism, corruption, and plunder committed by sectarian-aligned political parties, they remain silent — a silence driven by sectarian loyalties.
❀ Terrorism by Political Parties
Pakistan’s history shows that Taliban terrorism was a reaction, justified by the government’s U-turn and its support of the United States.
The silence of enlightened voices in the face of terrorism by political parties like the PPP and MQM in Karachi raises a critical question.
Is it not true that these parties were involved in mass killings, extortion, money laundering, and targeted assassinations?
❀ The Reality of Sectarianism
If the answers to these questions are affirmative, then why do enlightened individuals turn a blind eye to the terrorism of these political factions?
Is it merely due to sectarian affinity?
Or is it a flawed rationale that since the military has committed errors, political parties are equally justified in wrongdoing?
✿ Conclusion
The real question is: will this state of affairs persist indefinitely?
Will society continue as a silent spectator, passively accepting the terrorism, plunder, and corruption of political parties in the name of reconciliation?
