Pakistan is currently facing a host of issues and terrorism tops the list. I totally agree with the views of Muhammad Waqas as expressed in his article “Being a cop in Pakistan is no joke” (Feb .2). It is true that the tactics used by the terrorists are different and security forces particularly the police are not trained to tackle those techniques. It is unfortunate that the Pakistani police force is one of the most underpaid security forces in the world.

I remember reading a report about the overall condition of the police force in Pakistan. Apart from meager salaries, they and their families are not provided with any health care facilities. The working conditions had always been difficult but with the hike in terrorist attacks the situation has aggravated. People often accuse the police of corruption. I believe criticizing someone is the easiest thing to do. We have developed a habit of being critical to almost every issue. What is required, however, is the need for understanding the root causes of the corruption. I don’t wish to justify or support corruption at all, what I urge the authorities (not just in Pakistan but all across the globe) to try to eliminate the causes of the corruption. How could we expect someone earning just $200 a month not to be tempted to take bribe to make ends meet?

These people are also part of our society and they have similar desires and urges. In the absence of a proper social security net and low wages, what else should one expect from them. Trust me, a hungry man has no religion and no nationality. The best way to tackle graft is to first study the reasons that prompt someone to indulge in such practices. Only then, we can fight corruption.



Lala

Jeddah