Violence at the Quaid’s mazaar

This is perhaps a best metaphor of Pakistan today....
From the daily DAWN's editorial on August 18, 2006

Violence at the Quaid’s mazaar

THAT today’s society holds nothing sacred can be gauged from the violence that erupted at the Quaid’s mausoleum on August 14 in which a seemingly manageable incident led to no-holds-barred brawl, damaging whatever came its way. A group of female visitors at the packed mazaar on Independence Day are said to have complained of being harassed which resulted in people taking sides and resorting to violence. Consider the extent of the fight by the damage caused to the property: several doors were broken, as were lights, 40 marble dustbins, 58 flower boxes, over 700 feet of marble lattice and 40 garden benches, to name a few things. The damage has been estimated at one crore rupees. But all this was inconsequential to those who had to prove that they were on the side of right. That not one sensible voice could be heard calling on the unruly crowd to stop is tragic but understandable given how frightening it can be to confront a violent mob. However, one cannot understand the virtual absence of the security personnel, especially on a day that attracts more visitors than usual to the mazaar. This is particularly strange since 600 policemen had been earlier deployed at the premises in deference to the annual VIP pilgrimage to the mausoleum.

Repair work needs to be immediately carried out so that the mausoleum can re-open. But how does one offer a remedy or a way out of the kind of madness that erupted? What can one say about an increasing number of people going into rage at the slightest provocation? People need strong and wise leadership that can steer them in the right direction — one that will teach them to respect and tolerate each other under all circumstances and adhere to norms of responsible public conduct.