IndiaandPakistanhave history of bilateral disputes. There is no ray of hope for the return of trust and pleasantry in mutual terms as powerful establishments in respective countries can’t afford to withdraw traditional stances and ensure flexibility to normalize for peace. Leadership fromIndiaandPakistancan hold series of talks but prospects are always minimal. India and Pakistan row over Kashmir has historical prospective and for an independent observer, both countries have done blunders of violations to prove their fake claims over a territory while people of Kashmir have never been asked to use their right to decide future and fate. Kashmir war led to the creation ofBangladeshwhere Indian forces supported the freedom movement of Bengli people againstIslamabad.Bangladeshcame into existence due to internal failure of Pakistani politicians and military brass to disregard the opinion of people and at same time, militant revolt was backed byIndiawhich resulted in the surrender of Pakistani army before Indian armed forces and people ofBengal.Bangladeshfreedom movement is regarded as freedom victory but it left incurable gashes forIndiaandPakistan. There is long list of disputes between neighboring nuclear states ranges from Kashmir toInduswater treaty and Siachan to Surcreek. From ice of Glaciers to sand of deserts, Pakistan and India are not in normal terms and bitterness of blunders by both states in past still not driven towards sensibility and building a foundation to negotiate for normalcy. It is in fact the dilemma of sub continent and future of SAARC surely desire to get rid disagreements to reasonable mechanism to convince hawks in both countries for peace. It is not easy task to address challenges on short terms but in long run any such act of extremism stille have the capacity to derail the whole peace process, since level of mistrust is huge and equally both establishments so far have not any urge and courage to develop interaction to minimize the affects of any terror act by non state actors. For actions against non state actors, international community have always put huge pressures on Pakistan but incidents have clear clues that Indian non state actors are equally responsible but most of the times , it was ignored to settle. It simply put unilateral pressure onPakistanwhich makes the situation more adverse and Pak establishment try to convert strategies towards new dimensions to ease the undue burden. Both establishments are key player of excessive games with in a big game plan which had no remedy for people of sub continent.

Chinais also given the observer status in SAARC which has introduced a new aspect for SAARC.Chinais active member of Shanghi group another emerging strong regional cooperation in whichPakistanis also seeking an entry for benefits at regional level. In such scenario, PakChinaties are an open secret and both can’t afford to work separately in any a situation at any platform. SinceChinais emerging power also facing huge hurdles fromUSAand allies from the West.Indiais being promoted by US and Western countries to stop the progress ofChina. In next phase of confrontation,ChinaandIndiawill be eye ball to eye ball for economic gains as future war will be fought on economic fronts rather a military standoff. IfIndiacan’t afford a war withPakistan, it is out of question to stopChinawith western and made inAmericamilitary weapons. In future blocks,Russiawill protect its interests in region with Sino partnership. WhileIndiawill make its moves with strong support from US, in sidelines of new strategies to gain hegemony on economic front, potential will enhance but threats will open new panoramas of conflicts and confrontations which will pay nothing to region and SAARC. AlthoughPakistanis interested in Shanghi group to useChinainfluence to balance its relation withAmericaandIndiainAfghanistan, but Shanghi cooperation is yet not in position to backPakistanasChinaandRussiahave joint interests inAfghanistanalong with strong foothold ofIndia. So in new equation of regional partnership, confrontation will rise with new dimensions overshadow by the security situation ofAfghanistanwar, in fact it will overcastAfghanistanscene with its economic horizons on SAARC whereIndiaandChinawill usher a new race through a game to gain support from regional as well as international power politics and economic players.

In an exemplary case, SAARC can better be defined by theAfghanistanas a simplest portrait for future of regional body. Inclusion ofChinaand confrontation between India Pakistan, India China disputes and urge to lead the region with overlapping the interests of other key power players, member states may shift towards new regional blocks but will not gain any results from SAARC. In past SAARC failed to deliver for major reasons of indo Pak conflicts, now emerging China India row to hegemonies region backed by US and West will forecast same bitter and barren SAARC of past. It is unfortunate for SAARC region that complexity of issues will again fail in the delivery of fruits of regional partnership. If past of SAARC was without any positive and constructive actions, future will again be in doldrums. In age of striving for security, SAARC mechanism towards socio economic development will be unsuccessful severely; all three leading statesChina,IndiaandPakistanmust settle or freeze complex bilateral disputes in the interests of regional cooperation but not for the regional domination. In presence of thirst to dominate the region and ill will to diminish issues, SAARC will not be able to deliver as a strong regional body. A desire and dream associated to build the SAARC for socio Economic development to diversify benefits for smaller countries will never be fulfilled. Only a strong system to settle bilateral disputes can raise the horizon of SAARC to have a bright workable future in contrast to stationary past. China India andPakistanmust take respective tasks to minimize challenges gripping the regions from internal and external factors to hurdle the development of region.

Muhammad Farouk is Islamabadbased Research Analyst on Security, Media and Democracy. www.muhammadfarouk.com , Email: farouk333@gmail.com

India and Pakistan are the toughest founding components of SAARC and regrettably mutually neighboring rows never cemented any significant success for regional cooperation body in spite of deep rooted potentials to grow on socio-economic fronts. The scale of bilateral disputes between two nuclear capable countries is major hurdle in flourishing the role, although scope of regional cooperation is being expanded by giving representation to some new neighbouring states of various capacities. SAARC head of states conference always held with expectations but concludes without any positive outcome. Now terrible stage has reached that powerful media from sub continent mostly have no importance for such regional congregation in which sideline meeting of indo Pak premiers are the permanent feature for a smiling photo sessions. Both the countries are robustly bounded by high level of mistrust. So far, the fate of SAARC can be defined as the hostage to India and Pakistan for their multi prong disputes depleting regional cooperation organization to an inactive club of states without any prosperous delivery to strengthening body for regional uplift. In near future; there is no sigma of change of status quo for SAARC.

Dimension of disagreement have also created ruckus for other smaller countries eager to get benefits for their economies and sociologies but all is vain. There are also anecdotes that other member states of SAARC are showing discontent over the mutual rivalry of India and Pakistan and they have plans to establish some new regional cooperation or join some other bodies without the confronting states so other states may enjoy benefits of regional integration. Due to the gravity of indo Pakistan reservations towards each other, Pakistan is also seeking to join Shanghi group an emerging regional cooperation for economic gains with strong support of China. Although in SAARC, China has been given a status of observer but in future India and China may take a longer period to get rid the traditional opposition to emerge as regional power. China has own policy to built a block to get major benefits without engaging into a war while India has also sufficient support from USA and other International blocks to ensure its leading position which ultimately lead china and India towards altercation rather that close associate partners in building a strong and prosperous region. United States and other Western powers are helpful to India as they are not ready to allow China to become a powerful pillar in international power game through initiation domination in the region. Assistance towards India on economic, nuclear and social fronts is mere indication to discourage any such influence by China which can harm the interests of world powers and its allies in future arrangements. Afghanistan has also been inducted to SAARC; it is primarily a security orientation for the region as world key power players’ presence has strong ambitions to stop the development of China as major challenger against America and allies. Such developments in various dimensions are not compassionate for SAARC future. Security dilemma in Afghanistan is small portrait of confrontation between major power players of the world. America has shown profound frustration towards the shaky cooperation of Pakistan to ensure its action against Taliban groups operating from Pakistani soil. Karazai administration has facilitated India enormously to establish solid roots in defense as well as development sector. It is obvious that mutual disputes of India Pakistan and India China will have a significant importance in defining the future of SAARC. In emerging situation, SAARC will lose its role gradually due to charisma of powerful players like China and India to lead the region. It will ultimately deprive the smaller states from ingredients of partnership and cooperation. If SAARC failed due to India and Pakistan; can it achieve something with induction of China facing critical opposition from key international players? Afghanistan can better be define the future of SAARC which will engage too many components jointly working for socio economic gains but net result will be initiation of new rows primarily for domination. Pakistan role will be important as usual for its strong links with China but can’t ignore relationship with India. Although Pakistan is in process to identify India as Most Favorite Nation (MFN) for commerce but in due course of implementation, practical results will be limited. Pakistan can again be a bridge but eventually a hub of future hostilities for economic gains, it will create potentials and threats severely hamper its role at mercy of others. China and India will set the future either to join hands to ensure economic and socio development or confront to raise new issues locally resulting a destabilized region with the tilt of smaller states towards a new block to ensure growth. If the security defines the equilibrium in region, economics and social development through SAARC will ever be dream and it will diminish the role of regional bodies merging to new originations. In reality, all member states must take into consideration the impact of bilateral conflicts, India-Pakistan or India-China will set the equation of any regional partnership. Conflicts have paid yet nothing to work SAARC to its potentials. So inclusion of China will add new dimensions of confrontation as international power players like US and West will surely enter to ensure their interests either through a support to India to hurdle China. In wake of regional development, SAARC role will diminish without paying any assistance to regional in particularly for smaller states. It will usher a new era in which new regional mechanism will define future. Reality will reveal the deactivation of SAARC with passage of time and emergence of new block on new paradigms. Currently, SAARC is losing its position but regional cooperation always a potential for member states, a strong system for regional cooperation will always be a prerequisite with practical objectivity rather making the organization a hostage to confronting states.

Writer is Islamabad based Research Analyst on Security, Media and Democracy. www.muhammadfarouk.com , farouk333@gmail.com

Security is the foremost challenge faced by journalists of Pakistan. Journalists are striving and concerned about job security as well as life security while reporting from conflict areas. Latest down sizing in electronic and print media organisations has increased sensitivity of problems manifold. Statistics of causalities speak louder to portray the grim insecurity and lack of awareness about safety measures among media persons. Working environment is equally severe and harsh in entire country either they are reporting from war zones or highlighting receptive social issues through investigation in settled urban areas. In conflict areas, rival groups try to dictate media for projection and hide truth in reporting. Media lost eight working journalists in Year 08 while dawn of New Year 09 is equally dangerous and unsympathetic.

The unsolved killings of Haji Wasi Ahmed (Daily Azadi and Balochistan Express) in Khusdar (Balochistan), Asad Hameed (Daily The Nation) in Rawalpindi and Tariq Mailk (Dawn News channel) in Lahore in mysterious circumstances multiplied the panic among the journalists. Such target killings are still clueless and matter of serious fear for community. Tragic assassination of Musa Khan while giving live coverage to peace deal in Swat valley was condemned by each segment of society. Now every journalist fears to be targeted any time anywhere by anyone as all claims to be friends of media but no one fix invisible foes. In January09, two working media persons Dr Tahir Awan and Mohammad Imran were killed in a blast as both rushed to scene of a suicidal blast followed an explosion in which both fell in prey in D I Khan, NWFP. In Rawalpindi, Punjab, unknown assailants gunned down ‘Dr Aamer Wakil’, a senior journalist of Rohi TV, and editor in a local daily ‘Awami Inqalab’, after a week his brother journalist Kamal Azfar survived an attempt on life in separate firing incident. Facts of Year08 narrate gruesome incidents for media. Swat valley is known for its stimulating natural splendor but proved fatal basin for media. Journalist Qari Muhammad Shoaib, a correspondent of two Mingora-based dailies shot dead by security forces. Security forces admitted that he was killed by them by “mistake.” Journalist Siraj Uddin, “The Nation”, was killed in a suicidal blast while covering the funeral of a slain police officer in Mingora. Journalist Abdul Aziz, ‘Daily Azadi and Daily Khabarkar’ was killed during a security forces’ attack on a Taliban hideout in Swat, two days after he was allegedly abducted by militants. Tribal belt of Pakistan is most hazardous war zone where reporting is being carried out at the cost of life. Journalist Muhammad Ibrahim, ‘Express News’ was gunned down in Khar in the Bajaur tribal region after he interviewed Taliban spokesman. Recently two attempts were made to destroy Bajur press club. It indicates intention of warrior factions to control the coverage of incidents. In Balochistan, Journalist Dr. Abdus Samad alias Dr. Chishti Mujahid, ‘Akhbar-i-Jehan’ was killed for his several articles. Journalist Khadim Hussain Sheikh, ‘Channel Five and Khabrain’ in Hub Balochistan was gunned down for his reporting on issues of smuggling in border areas. In Mianwali Punjab, border mafia killed Journalist Abdul Razzak Johra, ‘Royal TV’ as local drug dealers were believed to be responsible as he prepared several reports on drug-related crimes for his channel. While in Sindh, Journalist Mohammad Azeem Leghari, Dharti TV and Daily Hulchal was killed in Dadu in broad day light.

All unpleasant incidents point out that mafia, militants and all stakeholders of power game want to use media to control flow of news in according to their wishes. There is no serious attempt to provide security by security institutions as well as media organization. Sense for insecurity now is being realized among journalists, government also acknowledges and media organization equally and timely condemns but certain steps are still at lapse.

Media organisations are well aware about the hazardous circumstances involve in reporting. In response to challenges, there are mix trends depending on the nature of organisations. It can’t be said that trend to facilitate media is on rise as only few journalists working for some bigger organisation are beneficiaries otherwise majority of journalists are working at their own cost without any organisational backing. Some media organisations are providing help to journalists to limited extent. For example on eve of Red mosque carnage in mid of capital, leading news channels provided bullet proof jackets. Very few organisations are providing insurance cover. Incentive offers for working in conflict zone are minium; as such organisations can be counted on finger tips. It is also recognized that some media groups are not paying even salary to employees. Due to non payment of salary, a TV channel employee committed suicide in Lahore. In current scenario, media persons are confronting issues of dual security, job security and safety of life, struggling on two major fronts. It is very painful to comment but fact is fact that media organisations are not playing the role of better facilitator for their front runner journalists. Journalists are short of proper training and equipment necessary to conduct coverage in war zones. Media organisation can be graded below to average in efforts to eliminate issues of threats to life and job.

In Pakistan media boom was observed with start of a race to launch new channels. Government regulatory authority issued licences without releasing the market strength and capacity to absorb the numbers of channels for TV as will FM stations. Downfall was also rapid and heinous as all the leading news channels and entertainment networks conducted downsizing in wake of recent economic down turn. A large number of journalists and media workers were deprived off their lucrative jobs which directly hit the life style of their families. Beginning of channels was very encouraging for media but all proved a short term bang. Now all channels of radio and TV are in struggle to exist. For their survival, they even scarified a large number of jobs. Now existence in media is directly linked to investment and mostly channels and associated workers are uneasy to maintain their level of life. Due to downsizing, media unions are very vocal, but no solid pledge is made towards job security.

Bad economics has affected the advertising spending by all stakeholders of media and advertising agencies. A downward trend is being observed in market. Advertising is the biggest source of income but unfortunately both electronic and print media have to revise their strategies to exist as advertising trends are not much favourable as a result whole media industry has to follow a trend to downsize to meet challenges of economic fears.  Advertising spending by corporate sector is on decline while government allocations are always conditional. Government mostly use weapon of advertisement to influence newspapers and electronic media organisations. It is very valid reality that government policy for advertisement also a reason to force news channels to impose cut down on its employment. According to some sources, government linked the advertising spending with increase of recreational programs on news channels. It was the direct reason that news channels have to introduce reforms by downsizing news crews.

With induction of new democratic regime in Pakistan, change in media policy was expected. But so far present government has not introduced significant steps in this regard. New media policy is still awaited. Although the role of current set up is not as coercive like previous regimes but still media community is waiting some solid steps to facilitate and guide media to consolidate its growth and better image building. A media policy is required that provide facilitation to media industry to grow which can provide better job opportunities to journalists as well help to stir responsibility to avert misuse of media. Media policy should focus on two areas sustainability in growth and development of sector through capacity building.

No is the simplest answer about change in status of 7th wage award implementation for last many years. Journalists and unions are asking to implement 7th wage award, also arguing to constitute 8th wage board award. In this regard, Ms Sherry Rehman chaired a tripartite meeting on the implementation of 7th Wage Award, comprising representatives of Newspapers employees and publishers. A working group was constituted to complete its work.

Media and journalists are facing worst environment, on one side job is insecure while reporting from war zone is equally insecure. Job insecurity is equally biggest threat as to life. Government, political parties, state organs, media organization and other stakeholders argue to be friends of media, supporters of freedom but there are dire need to provide practical implementation of a program in which freedom is ensured with job and personal security. Mushroom of channels doest fulfill the claim but it demands that journalists should be provided better working conditions with equal chance of growth. Media is important pillar of any country, if media is not safe, it can’t report a sense of security. To handle the curbs of insecurity, series of training workshops for safety measures should be organized. Journalists should be acquainted with safety and security issues while reporting in conflict zones. To ensure professionalism in media, a detailed policy should be drafted after consultation with all major stakeholders, in which a time frame should be fixed to achieve certain targets. Media itself is aware about its role but all other partners and associates should also assist media for freedom of expression for solid use of media.

Muhammad Farouk, Research Analyst on Security, Media and Democracy based in Islamabad

http://www.pakobserver.net/200905/05/Articles02.asp

Murder was so heartrending that whole nation mourned with media. Government, opposition, political parties, lawyers and civil society condemned the cruel act on media. Countrywide protest demonstrations held by media organization attended by people from all walks of life. President Asif Ali Zardari announced a compensation for family while Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani said a residential plot would be given to the heirs of the slain journalist. NWFP government also announced a special probe team to search the murder while PFUJ also set up a separate investigation panel for inquiry. Journalists from all over the world expressed deep grieve over the killing and urged government to trace culprits as soon as possible to restore the sense of confidence against rising insecurity.

According to a report, dozens journalists had left Swat valley due to violence against media. In Lahore, unidentified men attacked senior journalist Imtiaz Alam the secretary general of South Asian Free Media Association (SAFMA). His car was attacked with batons. He was injured when a shattered window glass struck his arm. Mulana Fazal ur Rehman visited his residence to show solidarity with him and rejected the elements targeting media persons on name of religion. Situation for media is more alarming as two successive attempts were made to destroy Wana Press Club in two separate blasts. It indicates that media is facing stern circumstances from warrior factions in conflict zone as all groups want to control the coverage of chaos. Journalist Noor Hassan of Royal TV was abducted when he was on his way from Peshawar to Swat. Later he was thrown from the car near Faisal Mosque in Islamabad, 30 hours after abduction. Unknown men opened fire at senior journalist Kamal Azfar’s car near Kohat a week after the killing of his brother journalist Amir Wakil. Media persons held protest in front of Karachi Press Club against attack on Channel 5 Reporter, Munawar Hassan. He was manhandled in a rally organized by ANP against a leading newspaper group for improper coverage.

Such incidents of intimidation have inclined the insecurity for working journalists as they can be targeted anytime anywhere during conduct of their professional duties. In Khyber agency, members of the Khassadar force detained two journalists Master Ali Khan Shinwari and Wali Khan Shinwari and allegedly tortured them. A property owned by Mian Saeed ur Rehman president of Bajur press club was destroyed during a rocket attack. In conflict zones, reporting is being done at the cost of lives. Rival groups try to influence reporters to hide facts. As a result, journalists face severe antagonism and threats from rival elements.

Top legal experts argued that instruction by court barring media from reporting against courts and judges are against the fundamental rights guaranteed in constitution, such remarks were followed by an order of Lahore High Court when court restricted print and electronic media from publishing and airing news or comments about an alleged scandal of a judge of Lahore high court. Media unions also expressed surprise over the move of the court and argued that court can’t impose such ban as it is against the freedom of expression guaranteed by constitution of Pakistan. Journalists and lawyers called for review of contempt law. Widow of slain TV journalist Azeem Laghari observed a token hunger strike outside the press club Hyderabad, demanding of the authorities to ensure arrest of her husband’s killers. It draws attention that cases of violence against media persons are not properly and timely investigated to apprehend culprits. Through a fair trial of cases of antagonism and violence, confidence of journalists can be restored but unfortunately most of the incidents are clueless while families are still looking for justice and compensation.

Covering the standing committees’ proceedings is not simple task as legislators discourage the presence of media. It was observed when private Media barred for entering into senate standing committee of Power and Water while only official media were allowed to cover proceedings. While the issue of live media coverage of the Sindh Assembly proceedings by private TV channels echoed in the provincial assembly resulting in the boycott of the house proceedings by the media.

Politicians are still not happy with the brave role of media for highlighting the issues of society. Sometimes journalists have to face embarrassing behavior from workers of political parties during their different assignments. In a press conference of Pakistan Muslim League leader Mian Nawaz Shareef in London an interesting situation developed, when Chief Minster Mian Shehbaz Shareef stopped a journalist Raza Syed, a senior British/Pakistani journalist and editor of Vision weekly declaring an ‘agency mole’. Journalist claimed that two prominent leaders of the PML-N tortured him after he was taken out of the conference. Eye-witnesses confirmed that he was taken out by the PML-N. In a public meeting federal food and agriculture minister criticized the role of private channels for defaming politicians through comedy.

Advisor to PM on Interior Rehman Mailk appealed to media to avoid speculations. Noted journalist I.A Rehman said that Media must question “so-called national interest” as defined by various authorities in the country. Both statements argue for the role of media in decision making and policy projection with focus to take media on board about vital conclusions of national security. Changes in national scenario are always very fast and it creates misunderstanding among media, government and other institutions of the state. So to avoid a negative impact on nation, decision makers should discuss all aspects with well informed media before finalizing a national policy to make sure effective outcomes. It is genuine practice in advance countries for successful implementation of policies. In wake of recent political uproar, according to a source a crackdown on media was proposed by some members of cabinet. It is good sign that government rejected such reports immediately. But journalists believe media can be first victim if democracy derailed. In this situation, it is duty of government to take into confidence media and give solid assurance that political reshuffle will not be a bar for media and it will be allowed to work freely to highlight all the characteristics of politics and society. The Senate Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting recommended the government to impose a ban on Indian television channels and take action against cable operators relaying the channels; it asked Pemra to stop airing immoral programs. Senate body criticized PTV management for lack of transparency. Federal Information Minster Sherry Rehman announced the retirement of all outstanding dues against the PTV, making the state broadcast network a ‘debt free’ institution. She vowed to uphold freedom of the press, saying free media can help promote democracy and democratic institutions in the country. She announced to conduct safety trainings for journalists of troubled areas. While State Minister Syed Sumsam Ali Bukhari said that code of conduct for the television channels was being framed by the broadcasters themselves. NWFP chief minister Ameer Hader Khan Hoti lauded the media role, saying despite militancy and extremism newspapers are projecting true picture of people’s will and aspirations. Sindh Minister for Information Technology, Mohammad Raza Haroon said a media city will be established in Karachi and an expression of interest (EOI) would be published in this respect within the year. SC admitted for regular hearing a petition against alleged illegal appointments of reporters and subeditors in APP. High Court Multan bench ordered National Press Trust to ensure payment of dues and pension to employees of Daily amroze.

CPNE announced to set up a fund to help victim journalist of conflict areas while also established a Kashmir committee to draft a strategy about newspapers of Kashmir as well as a liaison and fund raising committee. Khalid Hassan a veteran Pakistani journalist and acclaimed author of several books died of cancer in US. Sherry Rehman suggested launching of an excellence award for journalists to pay tribute to late Khalid Hasan’s journalistic work. Senior journalist Ruman Ehsan passed away in Lahore.

State of media in February clearly indicates that the media is still experiencing hard time. Professional journalists are facing unsympathetic conditions and reporting from war zones is most thorny task. Government and warrior factions are signing peace accords. Nation is content that peace deals will restore tranquility. There are many genuine reasons for media to keep hope alive that confidence should also be guaranteed for media to conduct professional duties in security. Media has given free will and awareness to nation so it also deserves a peace for development. Any mistake against media can lead to a chaos. Free, independent and secure media is also equally important like peace deals; it is duty of media stakeholders to ink a covenant to invoke sense of security for the development of healthy journalistic norms.

The writer is a Islamabad-based research analyst on media, security and democracy

http://www.thepost.com.pk/OpinionNews.aspx?dtlid=204923&catid=11

www.pakobserver.net/200903/03/Articles02.asp

http://worldtribunepakistan.com/news_detail.php?page_id=10207

In Rawalpindi Punjab, unknown assailants gunned down ‘Dr Aamer Wakil’, a senior journalist of Rohi TV, and editor in a local daily ‘Awami Inqalab’. He was 41. After a week, his brother journalist Kamal Azfir survived an attempt on life in separate firing incident near Kohat in NWFP. Armed activists of Sindh National Front (SNF) attacked on the Sindhi daily Awami Awaz in Karachi for poor coverage to party. The editor of Awami Awaz, Jabbar Khattak told he had been threatened by the SNF for not publishing its statement. Later Mumtaz Bhutto leader of SNF was arrested as nominee in case and produced before court in which bail was granted. According to news, Awami Awaz, received threatening fax for dire consequences if Mumtaz Bhutto, leader of SNF not released. “We will attack on newspaper’s office if Mumtaz Bhutto not released”.

Fatwa was issued for threats and physical attacks against journalists in Bajaur Agency, where fighting between the Taliban and security forces continues. A fatwa was issued against two journalists and a rocket-propelled grenade was fired at a press club in Bajaur recently. Journalist Hameedullah’s house in Swat was blown by unidentified men. Dir Union of Journalists demanded government for early release of missing journalist Ibrahim of Swat also a member of Swat Aman Committee. SAMAA TV Quetta office was ransacked during riots in Quetta when miscreants started firing and throwing stones protesting the murder of Hazara Democratic Party (HDP) Chairman. SAMAA TV’s office came under heavy shelling of stones and firing. Transmission of a news channel Duniya was jammed in Gujrat after it aired live coverage of the city police roughing up students of Government Zamindara College. Government functionaries harassed Geo News investigation team which was on duty near Chak Shehzad farmhouses. Editorial Board of Waqt News lodged strong protest against Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Sherry Rehman over her statement in which she accused Waqt News, that channel is biased and supporting only one political party. Security personnel of EME Society, on Raiwind Road in Lahore manhandled media men and injured four journalists including Geo reporter with the butts of pistols. The incident occurred when the media persons reached the main gate of the society for coverage of police encounter. The Police yet to take action on a complaint of senior journalist of Azad Jammu Kashmir Waheed Chirgah, who was allegedly assaulted. Many Journalists manhandled at Qaddafi stadium when they were trying to enter stadium, some journalists even not allowed entering stadium for coverage.

Chitrali Journalists held a protest against PIA for not lifting newspapers’ bundles from Islamabad to Chitral bound Flights even assurances by PIA management. The Supreme Court Bar Association representatives held a press conference on the road, outside the main gate of the Supreme Court Lahore Registry Branch, as the Court authorities did not allow the journalists to enter the SC premises, where the Bar had its office, to cover the meeting. An Rs500 million scam in the Intelligence Bureau (IB) echoed in the National Assembly, as the government remained clueless about reports of distribution of huge money to buy loyalists and favor of media persons. According to The News, government constituted a four-member team, headed by deputy chief of a spying agency, to launch a vilification campaign against journalists on its hit list and dissenting voices within the ruling PPP. Editors and senior journalists of daily ‘The News’ and the Jang Group of Publications decided to sue the Pakistan and Dubai-based TV channel, ARY One World, in Pakistani, UK, Canadian and US courts, for airing baseless and false allegations against them.

Ansar Abbasi served the legal notices on Zahid Bashir, former press secretary to the prime minister; Dr Danish, host of ARY One World; and M/s ARY Communications (Pvt) Ltd through his counsel. The Reporters Without Borders (RWB) said that threats to renowned Pakistan journalists Ansar Abbasi and Shaheen Sehbai will be taken up in the European Union parliament and demanded of the Pakistan government to unearth elements behind the threats and award them exemplary punishment. Group Editor of The News Shaheen Sehbai dispelled the impression given by Rehman Malik, Adviser on Interior, in the National Assembly that proper inquiry had been carried out by the Interior Ministry into the threats given to senior journalist and Editor Investigations of The News Ansar Abbasi. Most people in Swat are becoming regular listeners of FM radio channel run by Taliban they want to know about new threats and decrees. Taliban are ruling in Swat through FM radio.

Information Minister Sherry Rehman denied reports that alleged President Asif Ali Zardari for derogatory remark about journalists. Media reported that president commented in a meeting with Frontier Chamber of Commerce and Industries “journalists are biggest terrorists.” Presidency rejected such remarks and told that PPP holds journalists in high esteem. Chamber president also denied such remarks against media persons.

The federal government notified the Press, Newspapers, News Agencies and Books Registration Ordinance 2002, (XCVIII of 2002). But later press ordinance rules were withdrawn. Media Freedom Coordination Committee was established with joint participation of newspapers owners and worker journalists. Committee will comprise of representatives of CPNE, APNS, PFUJ and ATJ. Tripartite meeting on 7th Wage Board Award was attended by representatives of journalists, newspaper publishers and the Information and Labor ministries.

Meeting formed a working group to make suggestions for the award’s implementation. Pemra made it clear that transfer of Three FM radio stations from small cities to Islamabad, Karachi and Multan done according to rules and Pemra didn’t exempt licensing fee to any radio station. Prime Minister approved the establishment of Electronic Media department. Ministry of Information advised journalists that while applying for visa in Islamabad for visit to Gaza, a request be sent to its External Publicity Wing so that clearance process could start immediately and they do not face difficulty upon their arrival in Cairo. Pakistan Academy of Letters (PAL) will establish a literary TV channel during the current year. Former Chairman Journalism Department Punjab University and renowned media educationist, columnist, scholar and thinker Prof Dr. Miskeen Ali Hijazi died after prolonged illness.

—The writer is Islamabad based Research Analyst on Media, Security and Democracy.

http://www.pakobserver.net/200902/18/Articles02.asp

http://worldtribunepakistan.com/news_detail.php?page_id=9864

He was always helpful and gracious in giving advice and support to international organizations for their development works for media in Pakistan. Shocking and sudden death of Muhammad Najeeb has saddened the media persons from Gilgat to Turbat. Just two days ago, he visited Karachi and Qutetta to find out new potentials in which development work can be organized for the capacity building of journalists. He conducted scores of workshops on a wide range of subjects from reporting health issues to covering elections.

His role as trainer in media development will be remembered for long time, participants of his workshops are his legacy as he lived in media for the media.

He was a bridge between senior and junior generations of journalists as he always engaged experience for learning in training of newcomers to media. His honesty to media was widely acknowledged. In his 21 years of media career, he made friends because he was an honest friend of media. May his soul rest in peace.

http://www.thenews.com.pk/arc_news.asp?id=6

http://www.pakobserver.net/200901/24/news/islamabad09.asp

http://www.thepost.com.pk/IsbNewsT.aspx?dtlid=201023&catid=17

The ultimate victims are innocent and hard working citizens who leave homes for bread and butter, in the evening families receive dead bodies with tears. The plight of associates of security officials is equally sympathetic. Civilian casualties are far higher than accused criminals. It is the era of great games, giant players and grand issues. Strategies, operations and tactical moves are engaged to ascertain the common enemy of humanity. Scene is horrified and alarming with plenty of layers of fears and fantasy. Terror is ruling the grounds and minds as well dominating body and soul of mankind. Mayhem is certainly not the fortune of the ages and generations to come but demanding for reply of queries of time. Socio set up has been tarnished due to fright and frenzy deeds. There is no system to console but reactions are more outrageous and panic oriented. It is the age of dilemma for humanity where blood bathing for trivial objectives is not a matter. In the absence of proper system of checks and balances, life is just the forceful attempts for fair and unfair causes to exist. Society experiences a gap created by powerful and influential that is filled up by a blind reaction labeled with rigidity and stubborn attitude. Militancy is weapon of weak but stirs up dominated circles to prove hegemony and the morality of work by subjugation of opponent.

Local fuss a typical mindset frames strategy for control of surroundings frequently leaves behind immorality, while response finds only option of rigidness to save the last sign of aptitude of expression. Corruption of the systems activates a sense to restore the honor, which is declared extremism and later pushed to wall results in militancy. Neither religion nor society allows any depravity but it is again a trick to gain benefits always show of shortsightedness and short terms. Rule of law is impossible due to lack of recognized system in which fundamental rights are ignored without assurance of a respect. Ignorance of human rights is the prime motive for disorder; it ultimately leads towards imbalances and cracks in system and society. In absentia of rule of law, society moves towards a chaos a best breading ground for extremism and militancy.

Turmoil of terrorism is test of mental apt to fix the causes and culprits. Humanity is still striving for food and shelter. Human is enemy of human and try to dominate the planet through poverty, injustice, instability, religious fervor and bad governance etc. It requires a long term strategy with initiation of acknowledgment of basic human rights. It is the key to set on a long and tiresome travel to end abuses against humanity by humans. Schools, jobs, roads, health care, courts will be symbols for rule of law in the culture which is declared an extremist and rigid to old fashioned mindsets. Road, construction of road and jobs related to build a road always open new vistas. Force, brutal force, excessive force or might are not solutions to deep rooted human psyche of extremism. A road brings new lights, new knowledge, new information, and new life and ultimately evokes a sense to learn to live a better and planned livelihood.

Life is incessant journey but halted to destruction when there is constant denial to fundamentals of human rights. Halt in time is due to injustice, intolerance, poverty, ignorance and many other social ills. Bad governance wash out all the potentials, so role of authority is important to determine the fate of a state and destiny of nation in coming time. Good governance by the people always has tendency to mend ways well in time. Government has to play a key role to eradicate troubles and abuses from society. It will cultivate a culture to recognize and respect the rights of human. Each human deserves respect, honor and due share in environment but denial is always based on corruption. For peace and stability, long term policy is required to curb such ills through cooperation of all stakeholders of the society. Participation of each socio segment lies in democratic system where rule of law is determined through level of respect for human rights. Literacy and development are key indicators of promise of powerful authority to act for people. Intentions can’t remain camouflaged, actions itself speak and set destiny for construction or destruction. It is hard fact but public cant be cheated with beauty of words. Politics is authoritative but only that which pays to nations.

Revolution is always a strong wish but eventually evolution builds a system and society of the state to give strong roots of a culture on more solid foundations to ensure respect for basic rights, rule of law and democracy. Development of a nation is real challenge and is war with no end; it is real fight for sublime future and fate for humanity.

Writer is Islamabad based Research Analyst.

http://www.pakobserver.net/200901/20/Articles05.asp

http://pakistantimes.net/2009/01/21/guest2.htm

It is always demanding towards Pakistan’s commitment for war against terror. US have fought the war with cooperation of Army ruler directly commanding the armed forces to confront the abuse of terror; it is also a widely recognised fact that allied forces were not fully satisfied as often critical to Musharraf to do more.
Historically US has found easier to deal with Army rulers than elected representatives; as formers are more flexible for many reasons, mainly for international legitimisation of their coup to satisfy countrymen. Now United States has to deal with elected representatives as well political forces.
It is time for change in scene but not in policies. It is obvious that tilt is likely in security doctrine of Pakistan with change of regime. Musharraf has gone but war against terror is in progress passing through a critical phase, as allied forces seek more cooperation from Pakistan to stabilize the region. On the other hand, Pakistan strongly stands for its commitment to target every hideout of terrorists. Cooperation to international forces in war against terror is compulsion; its own security is under serious threats. There is no option other than to work with complete coordination with US. US message to current changes in Pakistan is very clear. US doesn’t care for change in rulers. Enforcement of American agenda is more important to stabilise the region.
There should not be any doubts regarding the agenda as regional peace is always top on priorities of Americans. Some elements of regional think tanks believe that weakness of any country is the ultimate target of any American agenda. US think tanks react in different manners. They only work out strategies for regional peace and stability to accomplish their targets. If specific country has visionary leadership and internal security, they get benefits. Recent US India treaty for nuclear collaboration for energy needs is significant example as how to negotiate matters with US to protect sovereignty as well achieve gains. So it is obvious that US wants peace in region for economic goals. A change in regimes is always internal issues of the countries. It doesn’t matter for US who rules Pakistan, but it matters who works for peace and stability for the country and region.
The change in security doctrine of Pakistan will be in two major areas. Now it will be based on escalation in coordination through political leadership. For US, the role of political leadership will be a matter of importance. Political forces of Pakistan have to show tendency to understand the sensitivity of issues. Earlier US and Pakistan were in cooperation to combat threats. Now it is required that cooperation should be replaced with coordination. More consolidated and coordinated attempts should be made against terror targets. Such tilt is obvious and on cards as now Pakistan Army will be under civilian directive for operations. US and allied forces will not be in direct contact of chief of Army staff of Pakistan Army. Political leadership will be responsible for decision making for entire strategy. Gen Ashfaq Pervaiz Kayani can give briefings to political leadership about security scene. Pakistan is being governed by a democratic coalition of two rivals Asif Ali Zardai and Mian Nawaz Sharif. Both have different vision about certain subjects. It is their utmost responsibility that democracy should continue to work. Pakistan can’t afford any break up of political disorder as it will weaken the democratic forces. Development in recent past has cleared that Army doesn’t want to poke its nose in political matters. At time, when Army is fully supportive for democracy, political forces should show sense of maturity and settle issues of confrontation with mutual coordination with flexibility. It is time tested hour for democratic forces. Democracy is gaining momentum after long time. Current political leadership has returned to home. Country has changed tremendously in their absence. Now people are more aware and media is free than past. Such issues are new for political leadership. It is matter of relief that small democratic forces like MQM, ANP and JUI-F are keen to strengthen the democracy. So issues are sensitive but it requires more flexibility and genuine leadership qualities in which turmoil to security should be apprehended through democracy. Like past practices, role of Army and US are more supportive for democracy. They want institutional development to counter threats. They want public participation to curb the trends of extremism and rigidity. US and Pak Army establishment are eager for democracy development. Now responsibility has moved towards Political forces to behave with sanity for their understanding for war against, its impacts on region and international politics and issues of stability in Pakistan. Political leadership has to clear their mind regarding the demanding role to curb extremism and terrorism. If political leadership doesn’t continue, it will be deteriorating for security of the country. World forces and military establishment have realised that Pakistan can gain stability through democratic institutions. Now world player wants to stabilise region through cooperation from elected representatives. It is also the obligation of two leading factions to show flexibility for Pakistan and extend full commitment to curb the evils of terrorism. If political dimension don’t oblige duties, it will target internal security and ultimately will a serious threat for region which will not be acceptable for international power players. Regime change requires that in internal set up, military and political institution should have complete coordination. This coordination will strengthen the essence of democracy in country. Any negative imbalance can disturb the internal arrangements. It will beget mistrust within institutions of state. It should be averted. Complete coordination of military and civilian institution will be a reason for internal strength ultimately pays reward for region. Internal coordination among different institutions is compulsory.
To confront the menace at regional level and to minimise terror threats to globe, internal harmony among institutions will accelerate coordination with regional and international forces. Terrorism threat is not issue for country but a global phenomenon as it is feared that top terrorist networks have centres on Pakistan soil. Coordination with international forces headed by US should be top most priority to trace strong networks and hideouts. If there will be gap between Pakistan and US, it will develop mistrust and pressure will mount against Pakistan. Democratic institutions have major liability to counter the situation. To avert international pressure regarding tasks to counter terrorism, a timely and well-informed mechanism should be planned for exchange of information about links and in time conduct of operation. Any mishap during the coordination will fade the conduct of the operation.
Democracy has been restored in Pakistan. Democratic institutions are functional. Democratic forces are free to take decisions to fortify the writ of democratic forces. Departure of Gen (Retired) Musharraf is clear indication that political forces are active in the country and want decision to reinforce democracy. It is good sign, that political forces are active to fulfil the aspirations. They should learn the art to settle the matters through parliament. Now in state and government matters, there is no involvement from any non-democratic front. In this context, US should support democracy. It should reconcile matters with political leadership. US and allies should extend full cooperation for strong foundation of democracy. It should help Zardari, Nawaz and Kayani to negate issues jointly, confronting the regional security as well internal stability. US can not only facilitate them to work together but also help to avert some untoward situation where there may face some clash. US should fully support the conduct of democracy it cooperation with military for internal stability and coordination in war against terrorism to counter terror threats to international peace. In new security doctrine for region, internal stability is necessary. Democracy has come into power. Military has no interference in government matters. Political leadership should show broad approach to resolution of issues. Matters should be addressed through flexibility. Level of internal stability can be gained through complete coordination among Zardari, Nawaz and Gen Kayani. Internal strength will give confidence to coordinate with international community to apprehend the nuisance for regional peace and global harmony.
It is dawn of democracy requires flexibility among political leadership and coordination with security institutions to ensure strong internal set up to join hands to combat terror roots in Pakistan. US deal with democracy will have lasting impacts on entire developments to guarantee peace in the region.

writer is islamabad based reserach analyst.

http://pakobserver.net/200808/30/Articles01.asp