I read with interest the article “The N-deal that wasn’t” (Nov. 18) by Shahid Javed Burki. People who don’t know the basics of Pakistani politics are not likely to understand the civilian-military relationship in the country. Foreign analysts usually criticize our military leadership for its interference in the politics of the country. Keeping in view the role our politicians have played in the past, the military has no other choice but to draw certain red lines that nobody is allowed to violate or cross.

The Pakistan Army is perhaps the only institution in the country, which is highly organized and professional and represents the unity of the country. We are proud of our forces. The current military leadership is playing a crucial role in fighting terrorism and corruption. As a matter of fact, our civilian governments should have been waging the war against graft but that is unfortunately not the case. Politics is all about comprises and in such a situation taking firm actions against certain elements is not possible.

Nadeem Chohan

Dammam