SPECIAL FEATURE HH Dr. Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin SLUG Reg. ss-973 November 2017

www.southasia.com.pk

The Maryam Factor Another female prime minister of is waiting in the wings. is being groomed to lead the country mostly to give INSIDE continuity to the INDIA legacy of political power. Strategic Rethink BANGLADESH Justice Delayed NEPAL Two’s a Crowd

INTERNATIONAL SOUTHASIA • SEPTEMBER 2015 1 Desire for Change

Contents 12 The Dynasty Continues Maryam’s becoming a prime minister would pave the way for her father’s future political continuity.

Afghanistan Militia Without a Cause 28 Can the government run an anti-Taliban militia? India Bangladesh 20 Justice Delayed Hills on the Edge The Gorkhas want their The process of justice is a 30 long-drawn affair. own country.

Nepal Two’s a Crowd There is no room for more 34 than two major political parties in the land. 40 International Merkel has been re-elected but the road in front of her is littered with obstacles.

4 SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 REGULAR FEATURES Editor’s Mail 8 On Record 9 Briefs 10 COVER STORY The Dynasty Continues 12 First by Right 14 The Name that Pulls Votes 16 The Heir Apparent 18 REGION India Hills on the Edge 20 Strategic Rethink 22 Pakistan A Question of Accuracy 24 The Census Mix-up 26 44 Afghanistan Neighbour Militia Without a Cause 28 Climb-back to Bangladesh Democracy Politics in Thailand are in for Justice Delayed 30 yet another twist. Sri Lanka A Society Challenged 32 Nepal Two’s a Crowd 34 Bhutan 56 Towards Mature Elections 36 Violence The Maldives Acid Crimes against Freedom under Trial 38 Women Acid - throwing is INTERNATIONAL another lethal weapon The Right-Wing Flood 40 in the hands of miscreants. Desire for Change 42 NEIGHBOUR Climb-back to Democracy 44 Urban Issues SPECIAL FEATURE Sewer Deaths HH Dr. Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin 47 There is serious concern for sewer workers in India. 54 WATER – CRISIS IN THE MAKING Saving Water Together 52 OPINION The Rohingya Catastrophe 50 FEATURES Urban Issues Sewer Deaths 54 Violence Acid Crimes against Women 56 58 Development Development Catalyst Port 58 Catalyst Port BOOK LAUNCH Sri Lanka is an important Recognizing Invisible People 60 part of China’s future plans for the Indian Ocean. BOOK REVIEW Management Lessons 61 SOUTHASIA 15 Years Ago 62

SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 5

COMMENT

Visit or Stopover?

hen the U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson touched base with Pakistan’s top NOVEMBER 2017 Vol.21 Issue 11 leadership, the ice is said to have been broken in the relationship, Though Pakistan’s Wproposal got a lukewarm response, hope was kindled that Islamabad and Washington PRESIDENT & EDITOR IN CHIEF will take tangible confidence-building measures (CBMs) based on mutual respect to balance Syed Jawaid Iqbal the trust deficit created after the announcement of President Donald Trump’s new Afghan strategy and his accusations to the effect that Pakistan was harbouring terrorist safe havens on MANAGING EDITOR its soil. It was undoubtedly very heartening to see Prime Minister and Zeba Jawaid General Qamar Javed Bajwa meeting the US Secretary of State in complete unison and with EDITOR one voice, giving a clear message that both the civil and military leaderships in Pakistan were Javed Ansari on the same page. The visit, or more appropriately, the stopover of the US Secretary of State in Islamabad ASSISTANT EDITORS on his way to Delhi from Kabul, was too brief to discuss a heavy agenda. How much the 90- Faizan Usmani – Khawaja Amer Syeda Areeba Rasheed minute meeting held at the Prime Minister’s house could clear the air between the two cannot be confirmed as there was no press briefing after the meeting. However, a 30-minute video was released by the PM office in which Tillerson could be heard telling the Prime Minister that CONTRIBUTING EDITOR S. G. Jilanee Pakistan is “important regionally to our joint goals of providing peace and security to the region and providing opportunity for greater economic relationship.” According to reports, during the CONTRIBUTORS meeting Pakistan briefly presented its own grievances ranging from undermining its anti-terror Sanghmitra S Acharya – Sajjad Ahmad efforts to giving India a greater role in Afghanistan. While speaking in the Senate Khawaja Asif Dr. Moonis Ahmar – Mirza Mujtaba Baig also said that the Secretary of State was informed in clear-cut terms that India could only play Huzaima Bukhari – Muhammad Ali Ehsan the role of a spoiler in Afghanistan and, as such, Pakistan would not be responsible for failure of S. M. Hali – Dr. Ikramul Haq – Muhammad Omar Iftikhar the United States’ South Asia strategy nor was it ready to be made a scapegoat. S.G. Jilanee – Dr. Mehtab S. Karim – Dr. Raza Khan If memory serves right, former U.S. President Bill Clinton made a 5-hour stopover in Zehra Khawaja – Taha Kehar – Dr. Syed Ali Madni Pakistan in March 2000 on his travels in-between India and Bangladesh. While Bill Clinton K. A. Naqshbandi – S. Mubashir Noor – Maryam Sadriwala sounded tough, talking about contentious issues such as the restoration of democracy and relations with India over Kashmir with Gen. , he graciously witnessed the GRAPHICS & LAYOUT signing of trade deals worth $4bn with India. There are many similarities in the recent visit of Kamran Ghulam Nabi the U.S. Secretary of State with that of President Clinton’s. Tillerson also sounded tough with Haroon Rasheed Pakistan and mentioned the upcoming Global Entrepreneurship Summit to be co-hosted by the Riaz Masih U.S. and India in Hyderabad in November. GENERAL MANAGER There can be no two opinions that Pakistan is an extremely important country in the region. MARKETING & SALES Pakistan’s strategic location and its sharing of borders with both Iran and Afghanistan serve as a Syed Ovais Akhtar bridge between the Middle East and the nations of Central Asia. This makes the country a natural MARKETING MANAGER ally of the U.S. Pakistan provides the main access route for U.S. aid and military equipment Hira Sarwar going to Afghanistan as, without these, continued U.S. military presence in Afghanistan would BRAND MANAGER not be possible. It is not easy for Washington to simply throw out Pakistan from the equation as Muhammad Aamir this could possibly force the country to get closer to China and tilt towards Russia, an option the CIRCULATION & COORDINATOR Trump Administration just cannot afford. Likewise, Pakistan also cannot afford to part ways with Aqam-ud-Din Khan America. The U.S. economic and military assistance to Pakistan has a long history stretching over decades. Several American governments have pumped billions of dollars into Pakistan. EDITORIAL & BUSINESS OFFICE 20-C, Lane 12, off Khayaban-e-Ittehad, Phase II There are a number of reasons for maintaining close and supportive relations between the Extension, DHA, Karachi - 75500, Pakistan two countries. Unfortunately, the U.S. has almost always maintained its relations with Pakistan Phones: 92-21- 35313821-24 on an as-and-when-required basis, keeping in view the changing priorities of its global policies. Fax: 92-21-35313832 Munir Akram, former Pakistan Ambassador to the UN rightly said, “Since U.S. goals and Website: www.southasia.com.pk priorities change periodically, at times rapidly, Pakistan- U.S. ties have often resembled a roller- Email: [email protected] coaster ride. One day Pakistan is America’s ‘most-allied ally’, the next its ‘most-sanctioned’ ally.” Now it seems that this attitude is changing and the time has come to establish bilateral MIDDLE EAST relations on the basis of strict mutual respect for the sovereign rights of each country. REPRESENTATIVE OFFICE Later, Rex Tillerson reportedly said in Washington that he did not visit Islamabad to lecture Pirana Advertising JLT PO Box 486207, 1704, Level 17, HDS Tower, or coerce but to tell them that Washington was determined to eradicate terrorism from Jumeirah Lake Towers Cluster F, Dubai, UAE the region with their support or “in a different way”. Diplomatic correspondents in Washington, Phone: +97-14- 4508309 commenting on the war of words between the two countries, noted that tough remarks from Fax: +97-14-3688487 both sides reflected their frustration in the lack of progress in normalizing bilateral relations. Email: [email protected] The bottom line is that mere rhetoric accusing each other will not work. The two governments must continue to sort out issues through talks respecting each other’s sovereignty. Though the SouthAsia is published every month best way to ‘resolve the‘ conflict is through negotiations but if the U.S. Administration continues by Syed Jawaid Iqbal for and on behalf of to repeat the Do More mantra, Pakistan will be left with no choice but to revisit its foreign JAWZ Communications (Pvt.) Ltd. policy. If the U.S. can come up with a new South Asia strategy involving India and Afghanistan to pressurise Pakistan, why can’t Pakistan frame its own new South Asia strategy with China and and printed by Union Graphics, Karachi. Russia to foil the U.S. approach. Views expressed by the contributors are not necessarily shared by the editors.

Published since 1977 as Thirdworld, the magazine was re-launched in 1997 as SouthAsia.

Syed Jawaid Iqbal Editor in Chief EDITOR’S MAIL

Americans higher than the rising levels of air pollution strive to perform as per the American rest of the human beings. in the country’s urban areas expectations of the general Pipedream Sorry to say, the American in particular. Is Modi ji public are hit by needless Dream has gone from being listening? legislation and bureaucratic attainable to impossible. protocols. Yet again, this Arjun Kumar, has been done by the Fahad Pirhar, Chhattisgarh, India. Parliamentary Development Karachi, Pakistan. Committee of Nepal that has recently endorsed a bill Attainment of related to the local bodies. Rising Air The bill, which was on hold SDG Goals for more than two months Pollution Compared to the rest Though the Modi-led of South Asian nations, government has achieved Bangladesh has performed a number of milestones well in such crucial areas as mostly on the political front, poverty alleviation, human it has miserably failed in development, women’s addressing the pressing issue emancipation, climate that is related to the rising change, etc. However, level of air pollution across the country’ progress in the country, particularly in terms of four specific SDG New Delhi. According to a (Sustainable Development latest research report that Goals) targets under Goal appeared in The Lancet, a 16 i.e. Peace, Justice and for no obvious reasons, globally-recognised medical Strong Institutions, is has curtailed the power journal, India tops the list not that impressive as it of selected local bodies’ of countries affected by should have been at this representatives, depriving This is with reference air pollution and smog. year’s end. According to them from a huge chunk to last month’s cover story In 2015, according to the Transparency International of development funds that on the US’s new policy on study, one out of every four Bangladesh, the progress were supposed to be used Afghanistan and Pakistan. premature deaths in India on SDG implementation is in the implementation of While there is nothing was attributed to pollution. being hindered by various various projects related to new in the latest U.S. In addition to that, the government agencies land registration and public pronouncement, what we United States Environmental owing to the dominance infrastructure development. can easily foresee is a further Protection Agency finds New of the executive branch, As a result, local level disaster in the making Delhi, India’s capital city, as centralisation of power and governments in Nepal prolonging the never-ending the most polluted city on rampant political influence have been reduced to misery of a war-torn region. earth. These findings do not over state matters. Falling dysfunctional institutions, The US approach can be bode well for India and it short of the SDG targets, the being at the mercy of those referred to as face-saving needs to take some drastic Bangladeshi government sitting in the Rastriya Sabha measures that aim to recover measures to bring down the needs lots of soul-searching (National Assembly). To be the glory the US forces have to uproot the well-ingrained very honest, local bodies lost since the launch of ‘War culture of impunity that has have no future in today’s on Terror’ in 2001. What one been harming the nation’s Nepal. can easily deduce from the progress to becoming a US over-reliance on military well-developed country. R. F. Dharmalal, power and from its desire to Lalitpur, Nepal. have a decisive victory in its Ruqayya Aftab, self-imposed war on terror Sylhet, Bangladesh. is the fact that American Accountability policymakers and political strategists are too arrogant, Future of of Judiciary conceited and quite holier- Despite being one of than-thou. They seem to Local Bodies the world’s smallest nations follow a different definition Political uncertainty in size, Bhutan has taken of human goodness and is always at its peak a giant step by deciding have some other ideals in Nepal while those to review the country’s of humanity that place political institutions that judicial system and its

8 SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 ‘s

ON RECORDSLUG

“I will certainly “If everyone is come back to free to give their Pakistan and face opinion on the the trial as and economy, then when I am medi- why can’t the army cally fit.” chief talk about Pervez Musharraf, the economy?” former President of Pakistan Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, Prime Minister of Pakistan “Hindus should decide whether to fight Muslims or “Since US poverty.” President Donald Narendra Modi, Trump has made Prime Minister of his stance on refu- India gees so clear in the past, it is not worth asking him Homeless in the Homeland “Sri Lanka extends for help with the Rohingya crisis.” its support to Sheikh Hasina Wajid, We cannot be wrong if we call India a land of Pakistan to hold Prime Minister of Bangladesh gypsies and nomads. According to the latest survey the next Summit report by the Indian Ministry of Statistics and of South Asian Programme Implementation, there are 1.7 million Association for homeless people in the country, which tends to be “The message to Regional Coopera- Pakistan to engage more than the entire population of such countries tion (SAARC).” as Bahrain, Cyprus, Mauritius, Luxemburg, the and become Maithripala Sirisena, a responsible Maldives, etc. As per the report’s revealing claims, President of Sri Lanka there has been more than a 20 percent increase in stakeholder in the homeless people living in urban areas, while the region and in the fight against ter- majority of homeless people in rural India are yet to “Over the past rorism has never been clearer.” be counted. These statistics go against Prime Minister two years of my Ashraf Ghani, Narendra Modi’s ‘Vision 2022’ that aims at providing presidency, we President of Afghanistan housing to every Indian by 2022. Considering the have made signifi- sluggish progress made by the Indian government in cant achievements this regard, the set target seems to be a tall order and concerning our “Every country will be missed by a wide margin. foreign policy.” must protect the Abdulla Yameen, rights of its citi- Dhruba S. Gogoi, President of the Maldives zens, strengthen Madurai, India. participatory government, and “Nepal is commit- enable economic ted to implement- opportunity for all.” ing the Belt and Lyonchhen Tshering Tobgay, Road Initiative of Prime Minister of Bhutan China.” Sher Bahadur Deuba, “There is a need to Prime Minister of Nepal focus on Russia and China for India’s bid to join the UN Secu- “I don’t want to rity Council, as these waste my time practices. Quite a bold move, the decision is based on the two permanent on answering the members don’t want general perception that the Bhutanese judiciary has been rants and whop- reduced into a closed institution, while some members of to see any changes in the Council.” pers of the brute Nikki Haley, the higher judiciary are accused of unfair and arbitrary (U.S.) president.” performance. The negative perception about the country’s U.S. Ambassador to the United Ayatollah Ali Nations court system is resulting in public distrust in the judiciary Khamenei, and the people at large are reluctant in seeking justice. As Iranian Supreme Leader per a 2015 judicial integrity scan report, some judges of “We have the right the lower and higher court were found indulging in abuse to shoot down of office, bribery and influence peddling. This is a very “Taj Mahal was United States serious matter and the Royal Audit Authority of Bhutan built by the blood strategic bombers must carry out its investigations to clean the judiciary and sweat of even when they from reprobates and black sheep hiding under the cloak India’s labourers are not inside the of black robes. and sons.” airspace border of Yogi Adityanath, our country.” Phuentsho Dorji, Chief Minister of Ri Yong-ho, Paro, Bhutan. Uttar Pradesh Foreign Minister of North Korea

SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 9 BRIEFS

PAKISTAN INDIA Weather Pundit ndia is going to enhance its meteorological forecasting capability to more accurately predict severe weather. IThe Indian Ministry of Earth Sciences will spend $308 million (20 billion rupees) in the next five years to install radars, supercomputers and special observatories. This will help the country forecast rain even in a small geographical area. Accurate and targeted weather forecasts are critical in an agricultural country like India, where rain is supposed to be the lifeline for over 880 million people who depend on farming for a living. India is the world’s second biggest grower of wheat, sugar and rice.

Dosti FM hina Radio International (CRI) has launched Dosti Channel FM 98 in Pakistan in collaboration with CPakistan Broadcasting Corporation (PBC). Dosti FM 98 will broadcast a six-hour Urdu programme daily for its Pakistani listeners. The Channel will also broadcast programmes in Chinese and English. China Radio International (CRI) and Pakistan Broadcasting Corporation are now planning to launch a radio channel dedicated to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). This will help boost radio coverage along the CPEC route and will enhance people-to-people contact between both countries. INDIA

PAKISTAN Mass Power he Indian government has launched a $2.5 billion ‘Saubhagya’ scheme to electrify over 40 Tmillion households in the country by December 2018. The scheme primarily targets those areas where electrification rates are much lower. Under the Saubhagya scheme, electricity connections will be given free to underprivileged people identified by the Socio-Economic and Caste Census of 2011, while others will get it for Rs 500, which will be payable in 10 instalments. Remote villages will be powered with solar panels together with a DC fan, five LED lamps and a plug point along with repair and maintenance for five years.

Motor Rally o commemorate Pakistan’s 70th year of independence, the organised ‘Pakistan Motor Rally.’ It Toriginated from Khunjrab and passed through Gilgit, Islamabad, South Waziristan, Quetta, Karachi and, after covering over 3,000 kilometres, it ended at Gwadar. The cross-country motor rally involved more than 300 jeeps, 500 motorcycles and 150 vintage vehicles drawn from 23 motor clubs from across the Pakistan. The Pakistan Motor Rally aims to promote adventure sports, network motorsports clubs and showcase the country’s tourism potential, cultural heritage and sports talent.

10 SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 SLUG

BANGLADESH BHUTAN Science Matters hutan will host the 7th International Science Congress on 8th and 9th of BDecember. Being held at College of Science and Technology at Rinchending in Phuentsholing, the theme of this year’s science conference is 'Strengthening Nations and Spreading Happiness.’ Coming from many countries, the participants will read research papers covering 21 hard science

ICAO Recognition and technology and soft science areas or the first time in its aviation history, Bangladesh has been such as agricultural sciences, biological certified by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) sciences, environmental sciences, chemical Ffor achieving 77.46 percent implementation of aviation safety sciences, material sciences, mathematics, standard compliance. In September 2017, the ICAO, a specialised UN statistics, pharmaceutical sciences, earth agency, conducted an audit in Bangladesh’s aviation industry to look science, geology and physical sciences. In into eight areas including primary aviation legislation, organizational engineering, energy, architecture, planning, safety, personal licencing, operations, airworthiness, aircraft accident computer, information technology and others, investigation and air navigation services. In 2012, Bangladesh achieved applied sciences will be covered during the 50.8 percent effective implementation status of safety standard conference. compliance. The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh has termed the achievement as a milestone for the country’s aviation sector. THE MALDIVES

SRI Lanka High Power Lab ocated on the banks of the Bolgoda Lake in Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, the University of Moratuwa has opened the country’s first High LVoltage Laboratory and Testing Facility. The laboratory consists of a high voltage impulse generator, high voltage AC test system, high voltage DC test system, artificial rain-making equipment, associated control equipment and auxiliary devices. It is capable of carrying out high voltage impulse tests, high voltage AC and DC tests of up to 500 Automated kilovolts and 300 kilovolts in different environmental conditions. This is the only test facility in Sri Lanka with equipment to carry out testing System required by the country’s power industry. he Maldivian government has introduced a complete laboratory automation Tsystem at the state-owned Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) in Malé. The new system will enable the hospital to conduct different lab tests and provide their results to patients within a couple of hours. New upgrades also include new tests that were not previously available. A sum of MVR 35 million was spent on establishing the new laboratory automation system at IGMH, a multi-speciality medical facility, which is in line with the government’s long-term plans to set up a National Diagnostic Centre.

SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 11 COVER STORY

The Dynasty Continues Nawaz Sharif may have to call it a day in his political life but he has already launched his daughter Maryam and if she can come out unscathed, the three-times former prime minister could continue his political life.

By Dr. Raza Khan

ynastic politics have been a key also have told the father and daughter left his business and his social legacy feature of the political culture that Maryam has all what it takes to to his eldest son, Nawaz. The PML-N Dof Pakistan and even after be the next ruler of Pakistan. Slowly has been run as a family property and entering the 21st century, tribalism Maryam also started believing that she whenever it ruled the country, Nawaz and traditionalism have kept Pakistani had all the abilities and qualities to be Sharif became prime minister. There democracy hostage. Dynastic rule yet a successful political leader. has never been any other candidate fit has been manifesting the country’s However, there is a whole context and appropriate, as far as as the family politics all along. The emergence to the rise of Maryam Safdar on the is concerned, to be the chief executive of Maryam Safdar, the daughter of political scene. The PML-N has always of the country. disqualified prime minister and PML-N been a ultraconservative party. This has Whenever the party formed the founder, Nawaz Sharif, as the political mainly been due to the fact that the government in the Punjab, either heir-apparent of the , is outfit has been run by one family. The Nawaz Sharif or his younger brother, testimony that dynastic rule is a key family itself has a social and political Shahbaz Sharif, become the chief social fact of Pakistan’s national life. outlook which leans to the right. The minister. Only once, for a brief period, Surprisingly, Maryam Safdar has father of Nawaz Sharif, Mian Sharif, did Sardar Dost Muhammad Khosa emerged from become chief nowhere on the minister of the political scene. province under Previously she had the patronage of never expressed the Sharifs. This any intention to was only to ward join the political off the criticism by arena nor anyone political observers else within the and opponents family had come that the PML-N up with the was a family affair. idea. Seemingly, The PML-N has lackeys of Nawaz been successful in Sharif introduced Pakistani politics the idea of offering partly by keeping Maryam Safdar as the core of the the next family group, which is choice for the f a m i l y - b a s e d , position of prime intact and partly minister. Nawaz by patronizing the and Maryam Benazir Bhutto (left) in her young days. She is sitting behind her father loyalists in every sycophants must Z. A. Bhutto, who was the Prime Minister of Pakistan then. institution of the

12 SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 government and the state instead of adopting meritocracy. A family controlled and run The PML-N especially does not have political outfit like the PML-N could only be relevant for a specific time any appeal for most of the young in and particularly when the overall Pakistan, because the party has never culture of society was dominated by the values of conservatism. However, given any role to young peope in affairs with the galloping population of of government. Pakistan and particularly the Punjab, the forte of the PML-N is no more relevant. It is faced by the aggravating problems of the people due to lack or absence of good governance, the and the party. Secondly, she is far ministerial candidate in the next polls concomitant economic pressures and younger than PTI chief (if they take place). Both Shahbaz and the simultaneous rise of democratic and may be able to appeal to young Hamza kept a long distance from the thinking due to increasing information voters. NA 120 by-elections. The proof of and the media explosion. The old But Maryam’s ascendancy on the the pudding is in the eating. Despite approach and style of politics is no political front has strained already Maryam‘s efforts, the party could only more relevant. uneasy intra-family relations. She has win NA 120 by the skin of its teeth. The PML-N especially does not brought her father Nawaz Sharif and This was despite the fact that Maryam have any appeal for most of the young her uncle Shahbaz Sharif into face and PML-N made ruthless use of the in Pakistan, because the party has to face confrontation. Earlier it was a taxpayer’s money to win the election. never given any role to young peope in given in the family that the political It is a fact though that Maryam has affairs of government. In this situation, legacy of the Sharif family would be already entered the political arena. the rise of the former cricketer Imran carried forward by , This may have divided the party but Khan and his voice against the status son of Shahbaz. Maryam’s ascendancy will it prolong Nawaz Sharif’s political quo has emerged as a critical threat has deeply disturbed Shahbaz and son life? to the PML-N powerbase. Imran Khan Hamza. The situation got worse when and his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, by Nawaz, after his ouster, announced The writer is a political- making corruption, merit, dynastic that Shahbaz would be the next party economy and security politics and youth as the axis of its nominee for the slot of prime minister. analyst and a public policy politics have attracted a He then took a somersault and practitioner. large number of youth announced that his apparently ailing and women. The PTI wife, Kusloom Nawaz, would be the has also formed a next prime minister. However, sensing government in the that this decision might straightaway Khyber Pakhtunkhwa divide the party and may create a (KPK) and has brought ‘forward block,’ it was decided young men and new to make Shahid Khaqan Abbasi faces besides only the the next prime minister. Chief Minister, Pervez Nawaz has plans to Khattak, as ministers. name Maryam as the prime This style of governance ministerial candidate and politics is claimed to in the next national have given shocks after elections. How this shocks to the PML-N. plays out after the NAB In order to cope with indictment is still a big this political situation, questionmark. Maryam Nawaz Sharif and his is facing charges of confidantes came up with forging documentary the idea to give Maryam evidence and may the top leadership role to face difficulties in counter the PTI, particularly coming out as the in the Punjab. Several next PML-N nominee factors have been described for the slot of prime by political observers as minister. It remains responsible for pushing to be seen that Maryam onto the political how Shahbaz and stage. Firstly, she is a Hamza would react woman and would if and when Maryam demonstrate a softer is made a prime image of the PML-N

SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 13 COVER STORY First by Right South Asia is remarkable for its dynastic politics. That is why political parties have no internal democracy.

By S.G. Jilanee

question has arisen,” as their actions and overlook their in the party and assumed charge of the Mahatma Gandhi would shortcomings, out of love and office himself, while, his son, Bilawal, “A say. “Why South Asians reverence as in the case of the Bhutto was appointed chairman. This was an continue to elect families to the family where Benazir and Asif Zardari innovation, but the party accepted it highest political office despite their became prime minister and president, without question due to its loyalty to poor records sometimes?” This, no respectively, despite their notoriety for the Bhutto dynasty. Moreover, they doubt, is a weighty question that massive corruption. have flourished despite their notoriety. merits deep reflection. One possible This phenomenon is best Now the Sharifs are following the explanation could be that it is part of exemplified by the Pakistan Peoples’ PPP. Nawaz Sharif, his wife, Kulsoom, the local culture to extend the respect Party (PPP), where no election is ever sons, Hassan and Hussain, daughter, given to an individual, as well to other held. Zulfikar Ali Bhutto founded it. Maryam, son in-law, Safdar were all, members of his family - his spouse and After his death, his widow Nusrat and active in politics until the court and offspring. his daughter Benazir, took over the NAB cases appeared. Another could be the hero worship mantle one after another. After Benazir won the parliamentary seat that fell sentiment. Some political leaders, was killed, her spouse, Asif Zardari vacant due to Nawaz’s disqualification especially, if they are founders of introduced the office of “co-chairman” by the Supreme Court. His younger the party, treat it as their personal property, where succession passes by nomination among members of the family as an inheritance. And people endorse

14 SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 brother and Punjab chief Jawaharlal Nehru was an minister, Shahbaz Sharif’s icon of the Congress which son, Hamza, is a member won independence for the of the National Assembly. country. He had groomed A third explanation his daughter in politics. But could be the surge of he had made no attempt sympathy for the widow to promote her as his heir and offspring of a popular apparent. In fact, before the leader, violently killed, Congress chose Indira, there as in Sri Lanka, Nepal was no party in India which and Bangladesh. In Sri was remotely dynastic. It Lanka, after Solomon was Indira that made the Bandaranaike, was Congress dynastic as part of assassinated, public her lust for power. There was sympathy surged in favour nothing traditional about of his family. As a result his it. It was a pure political widow, Srimavo, son Anura coup in 1969 that split the and daughter, Chandrika Congress under the guise of Kumaratunga, all were a left-wing turn. elected one by one as prime In 1984, after Indira’s ministers. sudden death, there was a In Nepal the Koirala perfect chance to restore family ruled for several Sonia Gandhi (right) followed by her daughter (second from constitutional norms and decades. Four members of right) and son Rahul (extreme left). nominate the senior-most the family, three of them cabinet minister as the brothers, - Matrika Prasad return home. When they did, a grateful acting PM, to be confirmed, Koirala, B.P. Koirala, Girija Prasad nation, predictably, showered them in due course, by the parliamentary Koirala and one of their cousins, Sushil with sympathy as Bangabandhu’s only party. But Pranab Mukherjee was Koirala, have been prime ministers of surviving offspring. However, Rehana hounded out of the party, for hinting the country. Their popularity, however, went into oblivion, but Hasina entered at such a course of action and Rajiv is understood to rest on their good politics and people enthusiastically Gandhi became leader and PM in governance. chose her to take up her father’s succession to his mother. It was at Bangladesh threw up Sheikh mantle. The people of Bangladesh, this stage that the Congress became a Hasina Wajed and Begum Khaleda perhaps in order to demonstrate that dynastic party and a private possession Zia. Hasina’s father, Sheikh Mujibur they revered Mujib and Zia, equally, of the family. Rahman was the founder of Bangladesh, elected Khaleda and Hasina to power, The infection has since spread to whereas, Khaleda’s husband, Gen. alternately. the states; especially UP, Bihar and Ziaur Rahman, (the Major) was the one India’s is a different but no less Odisha. Mulayam Singh Yadav in UP who proclaimed the independence of fascinating story. Rahul Gandhi and Lalu Prasad Yadav in Bihar, are the Bangladesh from a clandestine radio frankly admitted in a speech recently, exemplars of dynastic politics. In UP, station at Kalurghat in Chittagong on in Berkeley, California, that he was where Mulayam became chief minister the night of 26 March, 1971, when benefiting from a dynastic connection. three times, his son, Akhilesh currently the Pakistan army flew Mujib to West He also argued that dynastic succession rules the roost. Pakistan and launched Operation was somehow natural to India. In Bihar, when Laloo Prasad Searchlight in East Pakistan. Opinions,, however, differ on this was ousted for being involved in the The assassination of Mujib and Zia issue. According to some analysts, “the fodder scam, he passed the baton of unleashed a groundswell of public Congress became a dynastic party by chief minister to his wife, Rabri Devi. sympathy for the two ladies that accident.” The sudden and unexpected And currently, Lalu Prasad’s elder son catapulted them to power. death of Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Tej Pratap Yadav is health minister in Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the Shastri in January 1966 in Tashkent, the Bihar state government, while his founder-president and, later, prime where he had gone to negotiate truce younger son, Tejashwi Yadav, is ex- minister, groomed his eldest son, with Pakistan to end the 1965 war, deputy chief minister of Bihar. Kamal, as his heir-apparent. Kamal was “panicked the Congress leadership In Odisha, the current chief appointed commander of the Rakhi — the Syndicate as they were called minister, Naveen Patnaik is the son of bahini (security militia) to oversee law — into choosing Indira Gandhi to former chief minister, Biju Patnaik. But enforcement. But, that dream was set succeed him.” this is not a case of direct succession. at naught when Mujib, with his wife Indira Gandhi was not the obvious It is more like Bush, father and son, and three sons, - Kamal, Jamal and choice, because Morarji Desai was becoming US presidents, because Russell - were mowed down by some senior but he was “too un-corrupt” for there were several other chief ministers army officers. His two daughters, the Syndicate. K Kamaraj ruled himself between Biju asnd Naveen Patnaik. Hasina and Rehana, survived by sheer out saying, ‘No Hindi, No English, how The distinctive feature of dynastic good fortune, because, at the time the can I be prime minister?’ As for Indira politics is that there is no internal tragedy overtook their father, they were Gandhi, just six months ago she had democracy within the party. Until that not in the country. wanted to be high commissioner to the happens, the existing situation would Hasina and Rehana returned from UK to be close to her sons who were remain unaltered. abroad and went to Delhi, where Prime in England. She did not see herself Minister Indira Gandhi took them as leading India. The office of prime The writer is a senior political under her wings and hosted them until minister could not be farther from her analyst and former editor of the time was propitious so they could thoughts at that point in time. SouthAsia.

SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 15 COVER STORY

akistan is the only country in the world where a fake surname is Pbrazenly used just to retain the throne of a political party. Benazir Bhutto’s surname became Zardari after her marriage while Bilawal Zardari chose to be called a Bhutto The Name after the assassination of his mother. Maryam is proud to be called Maryam Nawaz rather than Maryam Safdar. She is married to Capt. (R) Safdar. It seems they could not have afforded to keep surnames to retain their political persona. It is possible, that if they that Pulls had done so they could have lost the political crown given to them by their parents. It is very unfortunate to note that hardly one or two political parties do not believe in forcibly retaining Votes power within the family. But their vote bank is not as big. Also, their rigidity in their political ideas could not have There must be very few politicians in Pakistan who have enabled them to win resoundingly in any election. thought of serving the people once they win an election. It is interesting to know that most They ride on their family names which have become of the religious political parties also do not believe in open merit to select their political brand names and reap the fruits of their political next boss. Mostly a son of a religious might without ever thinking of the hardships of the leader continues his leadership whether he deserves it or not. masses who voted for them. It is not wrong to say that in Pakistan most political parties work By Mirza Mujtaba Baig like a private company where key powers remain within the family. They just hire a few people from different fields to make their second tier leaders who remain in the second tier forever. Most political parties working like companies pay to their devoted workers either directly in terms of salary or allow them to do whatever they can to earn their livelihood. Inducting political workers in government and private jobs is now quite common in Pakistan. Just have a look at any government department and you will find hundreds of employees inducted at the behest of one ruling party or the other. Do you know any popular leader who started his political career as a worker and now is the top leader of a political party? It is likely that a few self-made workers might be in the front line but not the top bosses like Nawaz Sharif or Asif Zardari. They both think they were born leaders and, heaven forbid will die as leaders. It is rightly said that Pakistan has the honour to have a political culture where leaders are born not made. The fact is they are born in a leader’s home and definitely become leader to keep the political kingship within the family. Becoming a leader, it seems, is their birthright. Maryam Nawaz talks to voters. There is another side of the picture.

16 SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 Do you know who was Ashraf Liaquat any political person if they have no Pakistan has an Election Ali (son of Liaquat Ali Khan) or Dina choice. But political workers are Commission to monitor the political Wadia (daughter of Quaid-e-Azam)? mostly incorrigible rogues who can do and electoral processes. But it does They were the children of founding anything legal or illegal at the order of not have any means to check every fathers of this country. But they didn’t their leaders. wrongdoing in electoral politics. grab the empty seat of their father The political arena is controlled by Grassroots levels violations are made and preferred to live the way they a few families that come to power on so shrewdly that no one can identify wanted and spent their lives quite a rotation basis. They are elected by them. At the time of voting, you can’t respectably. those who are very poor and cast their ask a village woman to prove her Even Gen. Musharraf’s son and vote to ensure their ‘roti, kapra and identity by unveiling her face because daughter pursue their own careers. makan.' In villages people happily her male companions make it an issue His son Bilal works for a company vote for any candidate if they are of honour. in America while his daughter Ayla promised a lavish meal on free return Things will not improve unless a is an architect and works for many home after casting the vote. massive awareness drive is launched to social causes and promotes the arts Many political parties have proxy make the people realize how powerful in Pakistan. One of Shahbaz Sharif’s voters who illegally vote on behalf of they are politically. If they vote for the sons, Hamza, earnestly endeavours to those who don’t want to be the part right person and keep doing it for a develop himself as a politician while of the so-called voting process. In few elections, the corrupt people will the other son, Salman is not interested big cities people like to stay at home not have any reason to contest polls in politics and has own business instead of standing in a long queue and waste their money. The corrupt pursuits. just to vote for a candidate who they take part in polls by investing millions But generally speaking, it has don’t, in any case, believe can change of rupees because they know this is become a norm in Pakistan, that a few their destiny. Participating in the voting the best way to go to assemblies and powerful families imagine themselves process is also risky for them because become mightier to get back their as rulers while their few thousand of incidents of violence by opposing investment with huge profits. Deserving stooges plunder the available candidates. people have no resources to convince resources. The huge silent majority This means that neither is the people they can deliver and without live with whatever they have but vote electoral process fair nor the political plundering the public exchequer. for their favourite leaders and political process. In the electoral process They can’t make people aware of the parties or let others vote on their despair is dominant where people benefits of electing the right leaders to behalf. Their main job is to stay silent either vote to get a few short-term serve the country. if they really want to live peacefully. benefits while in the political process Political culture has no ethics all powers are in the hands of a few The writer is a freelance now. Badly needy people just contact families. journalist.

SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 17 COVER STORY Heirs Apparent

Nawaz Sharif may be out of politics but his name is likely to be carried forward by his daughter Maryam Nawaz. She may not be as bright or as perceptive as Benazir Bhutto or Indira Gandhi, but she belongs to the house of Sharifs and this may be enough for the unsuspecting common voters who are only interested in the name they are voting for and not the political track record.

By Khawaja Amer

ince Nawaz Sharif’s sons Hasan in Pakistan are not ready to come out of general elections scheduled next year. Nawaz and Husain Nawaz are not dynastic politics so easily. Benazir's son Her active participation in the recent Sinterested in politics, the supporters Bilawal, is being dragged into politics election campaign of NA-120 in of Nawaz Sharif want to see his and he is not up to it. But the jialas want is being described by political observers daughter Maryam Nawaz (Safdar) as his to see him as their leader to save the party as her formal entry in the succession successor. She has also been described from dissolution and dismemberment. and party leadership race. For a party by Newsweek Pakistan in March 2012 as Despite huge political and social with a conservative social ethos and “heir apparent” of Nawaz Sharif and the changes that have occurred over the last very few women in senior party and “presumed future leader" of the PML-N. 70 years, electoral politics in Pakistan cabinet positions, her taking charge has This promotion of hereditary politics is has remained by and large a family been a positive change. Her entry into harmful for democracy, but it’s true. enterprise. Only two families --- the the political arena is also being seen as There are many political dynasties in Bhuttos and the Sharifs --- continue to very much like Indira Gandhi in India, South Asia. Pakistan, India, Bangladesh control Pakistan’s legislatures, turning Chandrika Kumaratunga in Sri Lanka, and Sri Lanka, all have a tradition of them into oligarchies. Though the other Sheikh Hasina in Bangladesh and Benazir electing dynasties to the top office. Sri political parties including Tehreek-i-Insaf in Pakistan --- all of them were women. Lanka started the tradition in 1960 when and the MQM, may not follow hereditary Prime Minister Solomon Bandranaike's politics but unfortunately none of them widow, Sirimavo Bandranaike, became have so far mustered enough clout prime minister, followed by her daughter, to occupy the treasury bench in the Chandrika Kumaratunga. assemblies, at least in the near future. The 2008 Bangladesh general With political dynasties playing a major elections was contested by two women role in Pakistan, Fatima Bhutto, a genuine against each other, Prime Minister Sheikh successor to the Bhutto clan, denying Hasina, daughter of Sheikh Mujibur the very concept of political dynasty Rahman, and Khaleda Zia, widow of said, “It doesn’t strengthen democratic President Ziaur Rahman. India elected institutions. It doesn’t strengthen political Nehru’s daughter Indira Gandhi as prime participation and it doesn’t foster any minister followed by Rajiv Gandhi. In kind of inclusivity in the system; it does Pakistan, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s daughter the opposite of all three.” Benazir was elected for two stints as The most important thing in hereditary prime minister during the 1990s, the first politics is the family name with which the woman from a Muslim state to head a voters are familiar. This can be seen in government. the case of Benazir Bhutto’s son, Bilawal The continuation of dynastic politics Bhutto Zardari, keeping his paternal as in South Asia for a student of political well as maternal surname. It is notable science is a controversial and, maybe, that although his full name is Bilawal an undemocratic aspect of South Asian Bhutto Zardari, he is known more democracies. A number of reasons have commonly as Bilawal Bhutto than allowed political families to consolidate as Bilawal Zardari, for people are their position in the politics of several more familiar with Bhutto and not South Asian countries. The lack of Zardari. The genuine successor education, especially amongst the poor of Nawaz Sharif is who make up the majority of these definitely Maryam as both countries, remains the most prominent Hassan and Hussain reason. Once a family comes in power, prefer to continue they try to keep power and key positions as businessmen. within the dynasty. No Pakistani can think Therefore, there has of the Pakistan People’s Party without been much talk about the Bhutto family and Pakistan Muslim the Maryam factor League (N) without Nawaz Sharif. People in the forthcoming

18 SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 But then she cannot be compared with any of them. Though very much like Indira Gandhi and Benazir Bhutto, Maryam has been groomed by her father Nawaz Sharif, she still lacks the intelligence and scholarship of the two. Before entering politics, she was involved in the family’s charitable organisations serving as the chairperson of the Sharif Trust, Sharif Medical City and Sharif Education Institutes. Her political career started when she was made in charge of Nawaz Sharif‘s 2013 election campaign in 2012. In November 2013, she was appointed as the chairperson of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme. However, her appointment was challenged and she was forced to resign. Her proper grooming started when the federal government decided to Benazir Bhutto Indira Gandhi expand the operations of the little-known Strategic Media Communication Cell (SMCC), operating within the ambit of the Prime Minister’s Office and was upgraded to a powerful unit and started working under the direct supervision and control of Maryam. Though Pervaiz Rasheed was the federal information minister, Maryam remained the de facto head of the ministry of information till the Dawn Leaks fiasco. A section of PML members believes that Nawaz wanted to make her the foreign minister and as such he never appointed a foreign minister. During her grooming process she also accompanied her father to Washington and had a fairly long discussion with Michelle Obama and the two expressed their resolve to work for girls' education worldwide. In short, she has been properly groomed to become Chandrika Kumaratunga Sheikh Hasina Wazed the heir apparent of Nawaz Sharif. But then there is a fairly large section of "Comparing Maryam Nawaz to Benazir Political Parties, “Pakistani women still PML (N) members who are against the Bhutto is wrong; there is a considerable have a difficult time obtaining positions proposition. In fact, there is also a rift in difference between the two. Maryam of leadership within Pakistani political the family as Shahbaz Sharif’s son Hamza should only be considered as the parties. Social stigma discourages women is considered as the most suitable person daughter of Nawaz Sharif, the country's from taking prominent positions which to confront Bilawal. former prime minister who stepped down might involve public appearances and Can Maryam become Nawaz’s from leadership after the Supreme Court contact with strangers. Patriarchy and political heir? Is she being groomed to disqualified him in July in the Panama religious conservatism vehemently argue become the next prime minister? The Papers case. Children are only children; that women are not fit to be leaders, BBC conducted a survey in this regard. they cannot be accepted as leaders. and that they belong only in the home, Political analyst Sohail Warraich says. Sharif's daughter needs to prove her looking after children, and supporting "If she enters politics and seeks elected mettle first by engaging in real politics. their spouses.” office, she will lose the protection that Maryam Nawaz has a long way to go All said and done, there cannot be she has enjoyed all her life. How will the in order to prove herself as a leader of two opinions about the fact that during the family react to that?" Comparing Benazir Pakistan.” recent tenure of Nawaz Sharif, Maryam with Maryam, veteran journalist Salman It is pertinent to mention here that appeared as the most important possible Ghani says, "Maryam's baggage is huge, South Asian women are accepted in future political aide of the Sharif family. unlike former Prime Minister Benazir politics only in rare cases and that too Though Hamza is also being discussed in Bhutto’s. Whatever the court decides, if their father or husband has been the media as a future leader of the PML(N), she will have these allegations hanging murdered or hanged. Bhutto’s hanging Maryam’s active and assertive role in over her if and when she enters politics.” paved the way for Benazir, Mujib’s getting her mother Kulsoom elected from But in Pakistan where democracy is all assassination for Hasina and Solomon NA-120 and effective handling of media about personality and political dynasties, Bandranaike's assassination for Sirimavo after the decision on has many feel Maryam definitely has a role in Bandranaike. So there have always made her politically more frightening for frontline politics. been sympathy votes to take them to PML-N’s political rivals. Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan — the the seat of power. Tina Mufford of the former interior minister of Pakistan — International Republican Institute writes The writer is a member of the during an interview on Geo News said. in her report on The Role of Women in staff.

SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 19 REGION INDIA Hills on the Edge The demand of the Gorkhas for a separate Gorkhaland must be considered seriously.

By S.G. Jilanee

ocated in the Himalayan foothills, was imposed and the Central Reserve Mamata Banerjee clarified that Darjeeling is a district in the Police Force (CRPF) was given shoot at Bengali will only be taught as an Lnorth of the Indian state of West sight orders. optional subject in schools and the hill Bengal. It is a hill station to which The unrest that began on June 15 districts would be exempted from the tourists flock due to its cool, bracing recalls the language agitation in former rule, the group refused to budge from climate. More importantly, Darjeeling East Pakistan that culminated in an its position and started an agitation produces the best tea in the world. independent Bangladesh. There, the that soon turned into a revival of the Highly valued for its delicate taste, imposition of Urdu as state language demand for Gorkhaland. it is called the “champagne of teas,” had sparked the language movement On June 10, GJM General Secretary and, according to the Telegraph, “It is which turned into a demand for Roshan Giri called for an indefinite also among the most expensive teas, secession by the Awami League. Here, bandh in government and Gorkhaland with some summer Darjeeling flushes West Bengal Chief Minister, Mamata Territorial Administration (GTA) offices, averaging around £300 per lb.” Banerjee’s decision is to make Bengali except schools, colleges, transport, But, of late its tranquility was compulsory in state-run schools. The hotels and hospitals, bringing life to disturbed by political turmoil at Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM)- a standstill. Worst hit by the unrest the height of the tourist season after administered areas in Bengal’s hills was the tea industry leaving 120,000 violent clashes broke out between have a majority population of Nepali workers idle. police and hundreds of protesters who speaking Gorkhas, who perceived in The GJM is the largest political want Gorkhaland as a separate state the decision an attempt to undermine party in the region with a population for Gorkhas in West Bengal. A curfew their mother tongue. Even though of around 1.3 lakh. It campaigns

20 SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 for the creation of a separate state, Gorkhaland, comprising areas north of West Bengal, including Darjeeling and areas of Dooars. The party is headed by 52-year-old Bimal Gurung. The movement for a separate Gorkhaland is not new. It can be traced all the way to 1780 when Gorkhas took over Sikkim and large parts of, what is today India’s northeast, including Darjeeling. This was the region stretching from Teesta to the Sutlej. They ruled the lands for around 35 years. However, after losing the Anglo-Nepal war, the Gorkhas handed over the territory to the British in 1816 after signing the Treaty of Segoulee. Darjeeling was given to Sikkim by the British but later reclaimed in 1835. Decades later, in 1905, when Lord Curzon, then viceroy of India, ordered Bengal’s partition, Darjeeling was demarcated as part of the Rajshahi division. This region falls in present day Bangladesh. The fight between GJM and Banerjee’s The first demand for a separate state was raised in 1907 when a request was Trinamul Congress (TMC) in the hills is put before the Morley-Minto Reforms actually a fight between the BJP and the Panel. Similar requests were repeatedly made to the British government and TMC, because Gurung is the face of the later to the Government of India post- independence and till date. BJP in the hills. In 2007, Mamata Banerjee made the declaration of Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) and Bimal Gurung was made its leader. therefore fuel the agitation further as the issue. The fight between GJM and Despite all discussions and legislative exemplified by current events. When Banerjee’s Trinamul Congress (TMC) actions to provide a certain degree of security forces began tear gas shelling, in the hills is actually a fight between autonomy for the region, the demand baton charges, water cannons and the BJP and the TMC, because Gurung for full statehood continues. other controlling measures to suppress is the face of the BJP in the hills. The proposed area of Gorkhaland the agitation, the situation turned By itself, BJP hardly has any demanded by the party includes not critical as violence spread all over the presence in Darjeeling as an just Darjeeling, but several parts of the hills. Protesters pelted stones, bricks, organisation. It won the seat with GJM plains region: covering 396 mouzas and petrol bombs in return. Ultimately, support. Therefore, it is also about which comprise parts of Jalpaiguri, the government had to deploy the the tussle between the two parties Siliguri, and some other parts of north army to finally control the situation. spreading across large parts of north Bengal plains Yet, despite the crackdown of security Bengal beyond Darjeeling. But a sizeable population in this forces, GJM continued to hold flag Six out of the seven districts of north region is against Gorkhaland. This marches in the district as a show of Bengal have seen a massive increase includes many living in the plains – strength and defiance. Bimal Gurung, in support for the BJP between 2014 chiefly the Bengalis. Mamata Banerjee meanwhile, went underground and and 2016. In Darjeeling, this support hopes this will make her subsequently the police went hunting for him. has come due to the party's alliance win the support of the section of As both Mamata Banerjee and the with the GJM. people who are now favouring the BJP GJM stuck to their positions the strike However, the BJP, which heads in Darjeeling and beyond. went on in full swing, Union Home the NDA government in Delhi, has The chief minister may have a lot Minister, Rajnath Singh intervened, abandoned the Gorkhas. The party of reasons for not backing the cause of appealing to Bimal Gurung to call off got its nominee elected to the Lok Gorkhaland. For one, the bifurcation the bandh. Deferring to Singh’s appeal, Sabha twice from Darjeeling on the of Bengal will turn Bengalis against Gurung ended the strike on September tacit understanding that the BJP would Banerjee and it is more politically 26, after 104 days, without break. back the statehood demand, the party prudent for her to play the Bengali However, this may be a truce. It has backtracked and washed its hands identity card by resisting attempts to does not push the Gorkhaland issue of the issue. divide the state. to the backburner, but only allows Both Banerjee and the BJP are eying Banerjee has adopted a hard- breathing time to the government the Bengali vote bank. How the situation line posture and is hoping to tire out to reshape its strategy towards the unfolds remains to be seen. the agitators. But the agitation for demand which remains as live as Gorkhaland has simmered for many ever. The writer is a senior political analyst years. Her strong opposition may Politics has further complicated and former editor of SouthAsia.

SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 21 REGION INDIA Strategic Rethink India has a strategy to surround Pakistan though it does not have a contiguous land border with Afghanistan. The US has offered added patronage to India but understands that without Pakistan’s active support, it cannot fight the war in Afghanistan.

By S. M. Hali

ndia has been wooing Afghanistan Afghanistan, surrounding Pakistan’s the assault on the Army Public School for decades to use it as a pawn in border like an arc. All these missions in Peshawar and their Indian handlers. Iits game of encircling Pakistan. are teeming with agents of the Indian The Afghan Security Agency, the Since Afghanistan and India do not security agency, RAW. Ample evidence National Directorate of Security (NDS) share a common land border, India has has been found of India supporting the has been infiltrated by RAW operatives, been keen to establish links to send in leaders of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan who are engaged in activities to weapons and other paraphernalia to (TTP) who have found safe havens destabilize Pakistan. The objection by Afghanistan to further its machinations in Afghanistan. The TTP is provided Pakistan to the possible presence of against Pakistan. financial support, explosive devices, Indian troops in Afghanistan has finally There are two reasons for India to arms, ammunition and lists of targets prompted the US to pressurize India seek a role in the Afghan war. Firstly, a in Pakistan. The law enforcing agencies into not deploying its military inside strong presence in Afghanistan would here have recorded telephonic Afghanistan. enable it to apply greater pressure on conversations between the perpetrators India was keen on using the land Pakistan by using Afghan soil to launch of heinous terror attacks in Pakistan, like route to fulfill its odious agenda of asymmetric operations against Pakistan. Secondly, Afghanistan provides a direct route to the Central Asian States, where India desires to establish its footprint. President Trump has clearly said that he would expect a greater role by India in Afghanistan, though USA is involved in a protracted war in Afghanistan for many years now. Trump has tried to please India by openly condemning Pakistan for harbouring terrorists and has issued a veiled threat to Pakistan about cutting US aid. It appears that Trump wants India to fight America’s war in Afghanistan as quid pro quo for its support to India’s war against those operating from Pakistan soil. Let us examine if India can make a positive difference to Afghanistan. Let us objectively view a few ground realities. Pakistani officials have cited Indian influence as a primary cause of instability and insecurity in Afghanistan. Officials in Islamabad accuse India of supporting a hostile political regime in Kabul and funding militants, who use Afghanistan as a base to launch attacks inside Pakistan. This is supported by the existence of four Indian consulates and ten trade missions located in tiny

22 SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 trafficking arms and explosive devices Secondly, India has been wooing Japan hence their concentrated assaults in the to Afghanistan, to be used by RAW to invest in Chabahar Port but US capital Kabul and other metropolitan operatives against Pakistan. Seeing President Trump’s threats of re-imposing centres continue to take a heavy toll of through the RAW stratagem, Pakistan sanctions against Iran may cause all human lives and property. The ANDSF insisted that that all Indian trucks bets to be off Chabahar. Ironically, Iran is sustaining high causalties while the unload their cargo at the Pakistan itself is an aspirant to join CPEC. Afghan government is striving hard to border checkposts and after a thorough Pakistan believes that private provide security and good governance. security check, reload within Pakistan contractors can play a more dominant According to the SIGAR report, the territory to continue their onward role than troops already in Afghanistan. Afghan government has been facing journey. India would never permit such Senior Pakistani security officials stress many more problems and challenges thorough scrutiny. that an all-inclusive engagement is the than before. US is adding thousands A shortcut was found by India for only option for peace inside Afghanistan. more troops to strengthen, advise and continuing its macabre plan against More troops inside the country, along assist the mission and help the Afghans Pakistan. It established an air freight with blaming Pakistan for harbouring to stand on their own feet but in view of corridor linking both countries. The terrorists, will not work. Pushing SIGAR, it may not bring out the desired agreement to undertake this highly India to play a stronger role inside results. expensive enterprise was reached Afghanistan would isolate Washington’s John Spoko concluded that the US during the “Heart of Asia Conference” allies in Islamabad. Meanwhile, China government was ill prepared to conduct hosted by India at Amritsar in September and Russia along with Pakistan are effective security assistance as required 2016. endeavouring to play a diplomatic role in Afghanistan and is not well organized In order to bypass Pakistan for the in Afghanistan to bring the warring to conduct an assistance mission on a land route from Afghanistan to seaports, groups, i.e. the Afghan Taliban and the larger scale. India is investing heavily in the Iranian government to the negotiations table In SIGAR’s informed opinion, port of Chabahar. It signed a 500 and parleys for peace. India has no role developing foreign military and police million dollar deal to upgrade the port in this very serious exterior maneuver capabilities is a wholesome task of while it has constructed the Delaram- by well-wishers and stakeholders in the government mission. However, Zaranj Highway, a 218 km roadway Afghan peace. there is a void in US government- in the Nimruz Province of Afghanistan India can continue to help in the led reconstruction activity, which is connecting the Delaram District in reconstruction of Afghanistan but there widened by continual deployment of Afghanistan to the border of Iran. The should be no caveats attached to it.The new and inexperienced forces for the opposite way goes towards the south situation in Afghanistan can best be security sector assistance mission. near Zaranj, Afghanistan. India aims judged through credible reports on the The Inspector General is of the at roping in the Central Asian States prevailing milieu. Special Inspector critical opinion that the work style of besides Afghanistan to transit its trade General for Afghanistan Reconstruction military plans and training programs via Chabahar rather than Gawadar or (SIGAR) has recently released a report selected by the US for the ANDSF, via the CPEC. There are two problems titled "Lessons from Developing indicated slackness and prevented with this scheme. Firstly Chabahar is Afghanistan's Security Forces; Lessons Afghanistan from effectively managing a small shallow water port as opposed from the US Experience in Afghanistan." its forces, which contributed to the to Gawadar, which is a deep sea port. The report itself is enlightening and ANDSF's inability to secure the country frank as world focus remains on the from threats and re-establishment of safe continuing turmoil and conflict in havens for terrorists. To expect India to Afghanistan, despite the majority of fill the void is perilous. NATO and US armed forces having In the context of Pakistan, an withdrawn from this theatre of war. The important finding is that the US believed Center for Strategic International Studies that the greatest threat to Afghanistan’s (CSIS), Washington DC, arranged a stability is factional fighting, not discussion event with Mr. John F. Spoko, Pakistan. The reasons which caused on September 21, 2017 to discuss his Security Forces’ failure in Afghanistan new report. are underappreciated strategic level SIGAR’s findings conclude that assessment by the mission and the US. developing Afghanistan’s security Two recent events bring more forces has been a key policy priority clarity on the subject. First, the visit by for the U.S. since 2002. After nearly the Pakistan Army Chief to Kabul and 16 years of efforts, the U.S. has directly his candid discussions with President spent more than $70 billion to train, Ashraf Ghani may have thwarted a equip and support the Afghan National greater Indian role in Afghanistan and Defence and Security Forces (ANDSF), led to thawing of Pak-Afghan ties. the strength and effectiveness of which Secondly, the visit of Pakistan’s Foreign is pivotal to the success of U.S. strategy Minister to Washington DC and his in Afghanistan. However, these forces consultation with his US counterpart has remain unable to independently defend contributed to allaying US suspicions against internal and external threats against Pakistan and may encourage a and it appears they will depend on role by Washington DC to engage India continued assistance from the U.S. for peace talks with Pakistan. and other coalition countries for many years. The writer is a practising journalist. The Taliban control nearly fifty He contributes to the print media, percent of Afghan territory; they have conducts a TV show and produces not been engaged in serious peace talks, documentaries.

SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 23 REGION PAKISTAN

Quest for an Identity Pakistan has to think deep and long to engineer a foreign policy that caters to its real- time geopolitical needs in the region and defines its profile as a major country that has its own imperatives that may necessarily not fit those of America, China or other powers.

By S. Mubashir Noor

ecent statements from Washington US-Pakistan relations at a time when policy defining speech in late August indicate that the Trump White the Pakistan army is making substantial took the hard line synonymous with RHouse will continue to scapegoat progress in eliminating Islamist his predecessor Barack Obama. After Pakistan for the United States’ military terrorists through military operations making public the planned troop failures in Afghanistan. Faced with like Zarb-e-Azb and Radd-ul-Fasaad. It level increase in Afghanistan by a few mounting internal opposition to his sends the worst message possible to a thousand and their expanded role as domestic initiatives on immigration, longstanding ally, that your blood and an offensive force, Trump proceeded healthcare and job creation, President treasure sacrifices mean absolutely to tear down Pakistan’s significant Donald Trump has decided to flex his nothing to us. Over 70,000 Pakistanis contributions to the U.S’ global war on administration’s foreign policy muscles have perished in the war imposed on terror by warning, “We can no longer to deflect from his failings at home. them 16 years ago, while the State be silent about Pakistan’s safe havens Unsurprisingly, Pakistan alongside Iran Bank of Pakistan estimates losses to the for terrorist organizations.” and North Korea are again the target of national exchequer in excess of $120 Though he post-faced these venomous rhetoric emanating from the billion from the war. comments by noting Pakistan was a White House. “Do more” in such circumstances “valued partner” in the war against There is nothing novel about his may as well mean not enough Pakistanis terrorism, and that the White House approach as all politicians have this are dying to salvage the sinking ship of “recognized” the “contributions and particular parlour trick down pat. Far American intervention in Afghanistan. those sacrifices” of Pakistanis who had more alarming is yet another slide in Trump in his administration’s Af-Pak suffered immensely from its fallout, the

24 SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 tone of his speech suggested otherwise. office may have raised questions about commonplace. In fact, the parliament That Washington still considers the trust deficit that existed between in late August passed a resolution Islamabad a double-dealer that publicly him and senior party leaders, yet this condemning Trump’s comments as denounces the Taliban and other non- mattered little in the grand scheme of “hostile” and “threatening.” All roads state actors like the anti-India Lashkar- things. to prosperity have now been rerouted e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, but Having risked life and limb the last through Beijing. covertly uses them as geopolitical time he had a confrontation with the The sea change in U.S. policy levers. army in 1999, Sharif was in no mood to toward Pakistan is driven by frustration. To further rattle Islamabad run afoul of the so-called “deep state” Washington has failed to achieve and particularly Pakistan’s military again. That said, the former premier’s complete military victory in Afghanistan establishment, Trump also announced earnest attempts at rapprochement with it thought a foregone conclusion in his desire to deepen America’s “strategic India by building a personal relationship 2001. It has now been fighting the partnership with India” as a “critical with his counterpart Narendra Modi longest war in U.S. history. It has also part of the South Asia strategy.” This appeared to bear fruit until a trace of failed to trigger the social transformation zero-sum approach to regional policy terrorist cells operating in Karachi and of Afghan society necessary to prevent betrays Washington’s fundamental Balochistan presumably led to New fundamentalist forces like the Taliban ignorance of the forces shaping South Delhi. Specifically, the nabbing of a from again seizing power. Instead, the Asia. Antagonizing Pakistan to court serving Indian naval officer Kulbhushan Islamists are now regaining territory India will only create more chaos in an Jadhav, on espionage and terrorism at an alarming rate since the NATO already volatile region, and is highly charges, gave the GHQ the excuse it combat mission notionally ended in counterintuitive to Trump’s endgame of needed to shut Sharif down. 2014. American sources now estimate extracting US forces from Afghanistan Getting down to the brass tacks, the embattled national government in for good. Pakistan’s foreign policy has swerved Kabul controls less than 60% of the Any reasonable debate on Pakistan’s little since the 1980s. Its India obsession country. foreign policy should assume two aside, there is a “vassal state complex” Moreover, the war is deeply basic truths. First, since the country’s that appears to underscore every major unpopular at home in America, having inception, its foreign policy has been foreign policy and national security drained an estimated $2 trillion in consumed with countering India on decision. In the 1950s, Pakistan threw taxpayer money and cost nearly 3500 international fora. For decades, the its lot in with the United States as a American lives. Though Trump seeks to core objective was to corral enough means of guaranteeing the fledgling oversee a period of relative isolationism global support for the independence state’s physical borders since the (militarily) to rebuild America’s movement in Kashmir to corner India existential enemy India sat right next- economic might, a superpower’s hubris into holding a referendum. And of door. It soon acquired emotional and is a dangerous thing. Washington course, to prevent India from gaining material dependence on Washington is smarting over recent geopolitical a permanent seat on the UN Security and thus began the roller-coaster graph reversals in the Middle East and itches Council as that would irrevocably tip of bilateral relations where Islamabad to emancipate itself of the original sin the balance of power in New Delhi’s felt disappointed every time Uncle — Afghanistan. favour. Sam chastised Pakistan or applied a While Pakistan’s foreign policy That offensive posture changed after regional strategy not visibly favouring frequently lacks direction and for long 2001 when Islamabad’s deep ties with the country. kowtowed to U.S aspirations in the the Taliban pushed it onto the back foot Whereas independent states should region, it is important to realize the and the Foreign Office spent most of base their geopolitical orientation country’s birth pains in 1947 mandated its time defending the state from smear on the national interest, Pakistan for a security guarantor. Moreover, the campaigns mounted by the Indian decades danced to Washington’s tune unipolar world order that emerged government and its lobbyists abroad. simply to stave off that self-imagined after the Cold War meant you opposed Later, the media frenzy that followed Indian invasion. Hence Washington’s the White House’s wishes at your Osama Bin Laden’s slaying by US navy policy pivot after the Sept. 11, 2001 own peril. That said, both politicians seals in Abbottabad in 2011 became attacks that lumped Pakistan in with and the military establishment failed the tipping point, as it exponentially the hardcore villains of the free world Pakistan by not evolving this original fuelled negative international opinion of deeply hurt its feelings. All the more orientation to reflect a changing world. Pakistan. Indeed, what were previously so since helping the Taliban take over The same, however, could be said for hushed accusations of state sponsored Afghanistan in the mid-1990s was done Washington. terrorism turned into full-throated cries at the U.S’ behest. Indeed, as the BBC Trump in his speech made the overnight. reported in 1997, Taliban leaders were stunning declaration that “we will no Second, since the beginning and given the royal treatment in Texas that longer use American military might expressly so during and after the Cold year to get them to sign off on a gas to rebuild other countries in our own War, Pakistan’s foreign policy as an pipeline. image. Those days are now over.” The extension of national security has Slowly, sectors of the military and key takeaway here is that the national been dictated by the army. In such a civil establishment turned rogue and thus interest is fluid and must contour itself paradigm, the democratically elected materialized Bin Laden in Abbottabad. to new geopolitical developments. prime ministers and their cabinets Now, with “CPEC” having turned into Pakistan hence must rid itself of the are largely messengers to relay what a political buzzword that is parroted vassal state complex to safeguard its General Headquarters feels is the hourly by ruling party parliamentarians, economic and security imperatives, right orientation on various bilateral Pakistan has found a new pied piper or again risk being unwittingly pushed and multilateral relationships. Hence, — China. And so incidences of into foreign wars. recently impeached Prime Minister Pakistani political and military leaders Nawaz Sharif’s decision not to appoint openly lashing out against American The writer is an Islamabad-based a foreign minister through his term in polices in the region are becoming freelance journalist.

SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 25 REGION PAKISTAN A Question of Accuracy Many experts have questioned the accuracy of the census conducted in Pakistan in 2017, particularly in Sindh. If a small random national survey is conducted, several discrepancies could be removed.

By Dr. Mehtab S. Karim

ust prior to the start of the 2017 census, to disturbances in FATA and during the rapidly in Sindh as compared to other in a special issue of Southasia (April, floods of 2006. provinces J2017), several authors had welcomed This is another question mark which • Migration from other provinces to census and has stated that while raises the question about the validity of the Sindh has subsided and/or conducting the much delayed census census results. While 2.1% annual growth • Sindh’s population has been was a welcome decision, there were in Punjab could be justified in view of the undercounted in 1998 as well as in apprehensions about the results. This recent decline in fertility, higher rates of 2017 census writer, using the previous census data, had 2.9% in KPK and 3.4% in Balochistan are An examination of trends in total shown the concern that the last census perhaps due to the inclusion of Afghan fertility rate (average number of children (conducted in 1998) had missed about six refugees who have intermingled with born per woman) as shown in Table 2 million people, mostly from Sindh. The the local population there. On the other indicate the pattern of decline in all the Sindh Assembly, which was then ruled by hand, in Sindh illegal immigrants from provinces is somewhat similar. However, a coalition government led by the Muslim Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Myanmar more recently in Punjab, on an average, League, had unanimously rejected the (Burma) remain isolated. They do not each woman is bearing half a fewer child results and Ms. Benazir Bhutto, who carry NADRA cards and were perhaps not than in Sindh. Recent data on KPK and was then leader of the opposition, in her counted in the 2017 census. Unlike the Balochistan is not available. speech in the National Assembly, was previous censuses, the 2017 census was Since Independence in 1947, constant quite candid, saying “When things come conducted on de jure basis which takes migration from rural to urban areas and to Islamabad, they are cooked up and into account permanent residents as well from other provinces to Sindh, particularly somebody else takes the broth.” as those who have migrated to Sindh from to its capital Karachi - has been quite The provisional results of the 2017 other provinces and have not changed the prominent, resulting in increase in Census are full of surprises. Due to address on their NADRA cards and have Sindh’s share in the country’s population. unexpectedly lower than the expected been counted at their original place of This trend of migration continued in the population of Sindh in general and Karachi residence. 1980s and 90s. During the past ten years, in particular, and the lack of transparency, During the 1951 and 1981 censuses, prior to the 1998 census, from about 3.8 many political leaders, members of civil Sindh experienced on an average 3.8% million people who migrated from one society, academics and policy makers in annual inter-censal growth rate, while district to another, about half migrated Sindh are questioning the validity of the Pakistan’s population recorded an annual within their own province and the other entire exercise. growth rate of 3.1%. However, during half to another province. However, within The big surprise is the reported the 1998-2017 period, Pakistan’s and each province, the pattern was somewhat total population of the country - 207.8 Sindh’s annual growth rates were quite different. For example, 71% of migrants million - with an annual growth rate of similar (2.6%). While Sindh’s share in who settled in Sindh had originated from 2.4% during 1998-2017, which is over the national population increased from districts located in other provinces. On 10 million more than the estimates given 18.1% in 1951 to 22.6% in 1981 - 4.5 the other hand, a majority of migrants by the Government of Pakistan. Sindh’s percentage points increase in 30 years, the in Punjab and KPK moved within the annual population growth rate was slower annual growth rate during 1981 to province. The question on inter-district shown as 2.4% during the 1998-2017 2017 has resulted in only 0.5 percentage and inter-provincial migration was period, which is at par with the country’s points increase in 37 years. Thus, Sindh dropped in the 1998 census, therefore annual growth rate. Sindh’s share in the is reported to have maintained about the the pattern of migration in the recent country’s population has remained at the same share in the national population as past cannot be determined. It is clear same level as in 1981 and 1998. This in 1981. that substantial migration to Sindh – suggests that apparently migration to the A combination of factors could have particularly to Karachi — has taken place province has largely subsided. Sindh – led to Sindh having a slower population from other provinces, over the past couple particularly Karachi - is the destination growth rate during the past three decades of decades as well. of a disproportionate number of migrants as compared to the first three decades Census results are never perfect and from other provinces. During the past after independence. These include: thus under or over-counting of people two decades, millions have migrated due • Fertility rate has declined more is possible. The best way to check the

26 SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 validity of a census result is through the Table 1. Population growth in Pakistan and Sindh, inter-censal annual universally accepted procedure of post- growth rates and share of Sindh in Pakistan’s population: 1951-2017 census enumeration survey (PES) which is conducted in randomly selected areas CENSUS PAKISTAN SINDH Share of Sindh and its results are cross-checked with the YEAR Population Inter-censal Population Inter-censal in Pakistan’s census results of the same areas. PES is (000) annual growth (000) growth rate population routinely conducted in many countries, rate (%) (%) with varying results. For example, the (%) PES conducted in USA following the 1950 census disclosed that about 5% 1951 33,740 -- 6,048 -- 18.1 people were missed which was brought 1961 42,880 2.44 8,367 3.25 19.6 down to 1.8% in 1990. More recently, 1972 65,309 3.91 14,156 4.91 21.8 results of PES conducted following the 1981 84,254 2.87 19,029 3.34 22.6 2001 census in Australia, 2% people were 1998 132,352 2.69 30,440 2.80 23.0 missed; in the 2011 census in India, 2.3% 2017 207,774 2.40 47,886 2.41 23.0 were missed with wide regional variations and in the 2011 census in Bangladesh, Source: Pakistan Bureau of Statistics 4.2% were missed. In Pakistan, a PES was conducted following the 1961 census, Table 2. Trends in total fertility rate (average number of children born which indicated an undercount of 6.7% per woman), by province 1998-2014 and, consequently, the population was adjusted upwards. A PES was conducted Province 2001* 2004-06** 2010-12*** 2014**** after the 1981 census, but its results were Punjab 4.0 3.9 3.8 3.5 not released. However, the exercise was Sindh 4.3 4.3 3.9 4.0 not carried out after the 1998 census, KPK 4.3 4.3 3.9 Not Available nor is any planned following the 2017 census. Baluchistan 4.2 4.1 4.2 Not Available Another way of cross-verification of Sources: census results is accomplished through *Pakistan Demographic Survey demographic modeling, which takes into **Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey, 2005-06 account trends in demographic indicators ***Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey, 2012-13 ****Punjab and Sindh Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys, 2014 (yearly estimates of birth, death and migration rates when available) between the two censuses. Unfortunately, on an should have increased. survey (PES) were followed in the 2017, annual basis, Pakistan Demographic Could the sudden decline in the it would have been possible to determine Survey was being conducted since the average household size reported for possible under or over-counting in each 1970s but the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics Sindh in 1998 and 2017 censuses be a province. In several meetings with senior discontinued it since 2008. For this reflection of underreporting of Sindh’s officials of PBS, demographic experts reason, proper estimates of demographic population? This appears to be the case (including this writer), had proposed indicators from 2008 to 2017 are not when the average household size as to conduct PES following the 2017 available, thus making it difficult to reported in the 1998 and 2017 censuses census, but unfortunately it was met with estimate the current population of the is compared with the average household opposition, because the fear that the country and its provinces. Unlike the size as reported in the yearly household results of the census may not match with censuses conducted from 1951 to 1998, sample surveys which were conducted the PES results. where questions related to inter-district by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) To check the validity of the 2017 and inter-provincial migration were during the past 30 years, where the census results, it is not too late to conduct routinely asked, these questions were average household size of Sindh in most a PES randomly in about 2% selected dropped in the 2017 census. Due to this, years was higher than that of Punjab. In census enumeration blocks all over recent trends and patterns of migration the most recent household surveys (2011- the country. However, it could only be in the country and between provinces 16), apparently due to lower fertility level done if the PBS cooperates. It has been cannot be estimated. in Punjab, the average household size in reported in the press that when the Sindh Finally, accuracy of the census results the province has declined to 6.1, whereas Government requested the PBS to provide can be checked from the average number it is 6.7 in Sindh. Thus it appears that an relevant documents in order to check the of persons as recorded in the census and average of one person was missed in validity of results of the 2017 census, in the annual household Income and each household in Sindh and 0.5 persons the request was denied. This is not only Expenditure or Integrated Household were missed in Balochistan for some against the principle of transparency but Economic surveys. Data indicates that the unexplained reasons. In such a scenario, in case there is a genuine discrepancy average number of persons living in each it is likely that about 8 million people in in the numbers, it also jeopardizes key household in Sindh has been declining Sindh and 0.6 million in Balochistan have policy outcomes on regional and macro from 6.8 in 1981 to 6.1 in 1998 and to been undercounted, while 5.7 million level. 5.6 in 2017. In Punjab, it increased from people in Punjab and 2.8 million in KPK 6.3 in 1981 to 7 in 1998 and 6.4 in 2017. have been over-counted. The writer was a professor of A similar trend is also shown in KPK. If Census data is integral for the Demography and Public Policy in Sindh has been receiving a much higher growth prospects of the country at large USA and is Vice Chancellor of Malir percentage of migrants than Punjab and its provinces in particular, in the University of Science & Technology. He and KPK and has experienced a similar absence of international standards of is a former member of the Governing decline in fertility as in other provinces, cross-validation. If universally accepted Council of the Pakistan Bureau of the average household size in Sindh procedures of post-census enumeration Statistics.

SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 27 REGION AFGHANISTAN Militia Without a Cause There are plans in Afghanistan to set up a separate militia force which would be specially trained to fight the Taliban. There are fears, however, that the force may not prove to be as effective in its desired function as envisaged.

By Dr. Syed Ali Madni

mid severe criticism, Afghan According to the proposed plan, proposal, the New York Times reported President Ashraf Ghani is people recruited from various regions that around the time US President Trump Aplanning to establish a defence will operate under the command of announced his new Afghan strategy, a unit, like the Indian Territorial Army, the army in their respective regions so delegation of American and Afghan comprising 20,000 armed civilians that they can operate effectively being military officials visited New Delhi. and train them to fight the Taliban and familiar with the area. “They wanted to learn more about other insurgent groups in the country. Giving the background of the the Indian Territorial Army, which has

28 SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 been deployed in controversial areas there is credible evidence that such these forces have been responsible for to provide some relief to India’s regular units have committed gross violations numerous abuses against civilians, as army,” the Times said. The American of human rights. Therefore, there is well as summary executions of captured military believe that it will emerge as definitely a need, at least for a very combatants and other violations of a potential force to retain the Afghan careful selection as rebels may also international humanitarian law. government’s diminishing control — join the force to defeat the purpose. The Afghan Local Police, established without too high a cost — in difficult While American and Afghan in 2010, was meant to serve as a local terrains of Afghanistan at a time when officials told AFP the fighters would defence force. This bitter experience the Taliban are resurgent. come under the command of the is enough to draw a conclusion that Though a spokesperson for Afghan army with better training than instead of developing a new defence NATO’s Resolute Support Mission the Afghan local police – a village- unit, it is more appropriate to increase also confirmed the formation of the level force set up by the United States the strength of the regular armed forces. Defence Unit, another American in 2010, the Human Rights Watch said Moreover, the Afghan government has official, speaking on condition of that the Afghan government should either been unable or unwilling to hold anonymity, told AFP the idea was still in reject proposal of creating a new militia powerful strongmen accountable for “the brainstorming phase.” The Afghan with inadequate training and lack of abuses, including those who command government and its foreign supporters skill. On the other hand, there is a Afghan local police units or other have floated the idea with a view to general belief that an Afghan Territorial militias. As such it’s not clear how the strengthen the 330,000-strong Afghan Army with inadequate training and government would ensure that new National Security and Defence Forces less understanding of the mandate Afghan Territorial Army units, whose to crush the insurgency. But various would be yet another abusive militia members will be paid less than their organizations operating in Afghanistan operating outside the military’s chain army counterparts, won’t get involved have raised concerns as they believe that of command creating further problems in money-making activities. the idea may prove counterproductive for the Afghan government. However, On the other hand, diplomatic as local forces could become unruly a senior defence ministry official who sources have told the Human Rights and turn into another abusive militia preferred to remain anonymous said, Watch that though the Territorial frightening the people it is supposed to “Right now we rely on commandos and Army would operate under a regular defend. It is also feared that the local air strikes to retake the lost territories army corps commander, it would forces could become another thuggish but after the commandos leave we not be possible for them to stop militia. Their concern to a great extent don’t have enough forces to hold onto strong and powerful men involved in seems to be pretty much valid for the territories.” Since this would be an various nefarious activities including auxiliary force comprising personnel smuggling. There is also concern who serve on a short-term contract that the new force could repeat the basis with the regular armed forces, the criminality that many Afghan Local proposal according to him seems to be Police units exhibited and clash with appropriate and timely for they will be other government forces and militias trained enough to hold the fort when over control of territory and smuggling the regular armed forces leave. routes. Patricia Gossman of Human Patricia Gossman, senior researcher Rights Watch recently commenting at Human Rights Watch argues that the on the proposal said. “There is a long, Afghan government’s expansion of unsavoury history of using tribal and irregular forces could have enormously irregular militias in Afghanistan, and dangerous consequences for civilians. it has led to egregious crimes without Therefore, instead of creating accountability. Too often they have additional local forces, which are hard inflamed conflict rather than provide to control and prone to abuses, the security.” Afghan authorities should improve the It may be mentioned here that in training and combat capabilities of its Afghanistan, militias – private armies existing troops, and hold accountable and government-backed armed those groups responsible for abuses, groups – have a long and chequered she points out. The incompetency of history in the war-torn country and the Afghan police and soldiers has local people are really afraid of them. been evident in districts of Nangarhar Civilian casualties were at record highs province where Islamic State Khorasan in the first six months of 2017, a UN Province (ISKP) groups have carried report showed, with forces loyal to the out frequent attacks and over the last Afghan government accounting for few months they have been able to nearly 20 percent of the deaths and make their effective presence felt injuries. Since NATO ended its combat in Afghanistan --- undoubtedly a mission in 2014, the Taliban have been worrisome development. gaining ground and the Islamic State According to reports in recent is expanding its footprint. Under such years, the Afghan National Defence circumstances, creation of paramilitary and Security Forces have been trying to unit consisting of civilians with less rely on militia forces such as the Afghan pay, less training and no discipline may Local Police (ALP) to “hold” local turn out be disastrous instead of useful territory reclaimed from the Taliban or in curbing the insurgencies. insurgent groups belonging to the ISKP. But unfortunately in many localities The writer is a free-lance contributor.

SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 29 REGION BANGLADESH

Justice Delayed There is a huge backlog of cases in Bangladesh’s lower courts because of the shortage of judges. The government is not as agile in this respect and the general population all over the country is suffering.

By Zehra Khawaja

hough the 7th Five-Year Plan of golden jubilee when the country is dispose of the cases with the present Bangladesh mentions judiciary expected to become a middle-mid- strength of judges and the number of Tas one of the four critical areas income country. Members of the courts. So there is a need to expedite where improvement is required for Bench and the Bar agree that efforts the already delayed recruitment of better governance, in an alarming to ensure speedy justice by investing judges. scenario each lower court judge in in training, computerizing the court According to reports there are Bangladesh is loaded with an average records and otherwise modernizing the some 400 judges' posts still vacant of 2,000 cases for hearing and disposal police, prosecution and judiciary, will in the lower courts. There is a need whereas a whopping 27.5 lakh cases not work unless immediate measures to establish more courtrooms to are pending disposal nationwide. are taken to increase the number of accommodate the newly appointed A recent UNDP forecast said the subordinate courts and recruit a large judges and support staff immediately case logjam may reach 5 million by number of qualified judges, purely on to save the situation from getting 2020, a year before Bangladesh's merit. It is not humanly possible to worse. Though the Bangladesh

30 SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 Though the Bangladesh Judicial Service Commission has taken up the process of appointing some 207 judges to complement the existing pool of 1,397, appointment of selected judges could not be finalized even after more than a year.

Judicial Service Commission has of corruption and harassment for the good governance of the State. taken up the process of appointing applicants in Bangladesh. The The role of a robust judiciary in a some 207 judges to complement the applicants have to run from pillar nation’s development is pivotal. With existing pool of 1,397, appointment to post for the verification report development and a corresponding of selected judges could not be and even after paying a bribe, they growth in litigation, more judges will finalized even after more than a year. fail to get the report. So unless the certainly be required to handle the The inordinate delay in completing police verification procedure is situation so that justice is done in its the selection and recruitment streamlined things will not ease for truest possible sense. process, according to a report, is due report applicants. All said and done, the real issue is to the tussle between the judiciary Among common causes of a very not who appoints judges but how they and the executive over appointments large number of pending cases in the are appointed. Irrespective of whether of some judges. Moreover, political Bangladesh lower courts is shortage it is the executive, the judiciary or a interference, nepotism and corruption of judges, insufficient infrastructure Judicial Commission that appoints in the appointment of judges are and a growing number of new judges, as long as the process is also hindrances in their timely cases. The only solution therefore not transparent and the criteria of appointment. The applicants for the is recruitment of more judges and appointment are other than merit post of judges have no idea when building more infrastructures. In and competence, the sole objective appointment letters will be issued short, the ratio of the number of of providing justice to the people will which is being termed as the failure judges to the size of the population not be achieved. Therefore, there is of the government in dealing with is very low in Bangladesh. The data a need to evolve objective criteria an issue which requires immediate available for the last five years shows to assess a candidate and make action. that the growth rate in case backlog appointments on the basis of such It is unfortunate that it takes is at least two to 13 times higher than assessments. A Judicial Commission years to complete the appointment the growth rate in population. This officer rightly said, “We may usefully formalities of judges. According shows that population growth rate refer to the system adopted by the to official reports the recruitment is not the primary reason for case Judicial Appointments Commission process is moving at a snail’s pace backlog. Furthermore, members of in the United Kingdom to assess because of delay in police verification only 25 per cent of the households candidates.” The U.K. Constitutional report of the applicants. Apparently in Bangladesh are involved in either Reform Act, 2005 made merit the sole the cause of delay is the non-serious civil or criminal disputes; among basis of selection to the judiciary; a attitude of the home ministry which them, 68 per cent never come to the person must not be selected unless has not yet sent the files to the police formal justice system. the selecting body is satisfied that he to complete the checking and vetting The chief justice, SK Sinha, or she is of good character. While the needed before the commencement of addressing a recent national judicial Judicial Appointments Commission recruitment process. Sadly enough, conference, called on the judges to must have regard for the need to back in September 2014, the law expedite disposal of cases to get rid encourage diversity in the range of commission had recommended of legal backlog and ensure a fair persons available for selection for the recruitment of 3,000 judges to atmosphere for delivery of justice. appointments, it is subject to merit ease the case congestion, but the Cautioning that such a huge burden criteria. decision-makers did not pay any of unsettled cases might bring the According to court records the heed and as such they are primarily judiciary to a standstill, he said, "This number of unsettled cases increased responsible for not appointing judges can enhance the cost of justice. It may by 75 per cent between 2008 and quickly enough. According to a discourage people from coming to 2015. This huge backlog has been Dhaka Bar member, “This is an issue court and they may seek extrajudicial created as the new cases outnumber of utmost importance and although means such as money and muscle for the ones settled by the court system. we appreciate the law minister's securing suitable solutions or remedy This trend further suggests that another recognition of the need for new of their problems." There is no denying 10 per cent cases will be added to judges to deal with the millions of of the fact that the importance of the current burden of the country's pending cases, the case of police the judiciary and timely delivery of judiciary at the end of 2017. There verification must be prioritized so justice is one significant component is a need finalize the appointment that justice seekers don't have to of citizenship which cannot be of judges as soon as possible so that suffer lengthy legal battles anymore.” neglected. Overworked judges, justice is not denied to the people of It is an open secret that the police overburdened court staff, chronic Bangladesh. verification process has emerged shortage of court space and unending to be one of the biggest sources waits for justice does not complement The writer is a free-lance contributor.

SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 31 REGION SRI LANKA

olombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka, witnessed the arrest of Csome people for committing hate crimes in April 2017. Though small news but it reflected the resurgence A Society of attacks by the radical nationalist Buddhist organization, Bodo Bala Sena (BBS-Forces of Buddhist power). This force has been conducting violent attacks on Muslims in Sri Lanka since 2014. The general opinion is Challenged against the Sri Lankan police that it is not making efforts and avoiding the Muslims comprise just about 9% of the total Sri Lankan possibility of arresting the Buddhist monk Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara, population. They have been accused lately by Buddhist who is believed to have connections with those conducting violence monks of spreading extremism. The Sinhalese, Tamils and against the Muslims. Considering Muslims have co-existed peacefully in Sri Lankan society that Muslims are being subjected to brutal victimization in Myanmar, the but now new challenges are raising their ugly head. current upsurge of violence against the Muslims in Sri Lanka is not good news By Muhammad Ali Ehsan for the world. Rumours are circulating that the system of slaughter (monks attacked a slaughter house in Dematagoda in Colombo) and halal system of classification will be undone soon. Mosques are being attacked. Is there a deep-rooted animosity on display by the Sri Lankan monks against the Muslims? Should the Sri Lankan government not take appropriate administrative actions to ensure that the world does not witness another Myanmar-like crisis situation before it is too late? Muslims – a small Tamil speaking minority (9% of the population) have always remained very loyal to the state. Even when they were expelled on very short notice from northern Sri Lanka during the civil war they did not create issues for the battling government. But today the Bodu Bala Sena organization accuses the Muslims for trying to destroy the Sinhalese race. Muslims are accused of being anti-Buddhists and the Sinhalese are being asked not to rent out property to them. They are also encouraging people to use derogatory language against the Imams of the Muslim mosques, blaming them of trying to convert the Sinhalese. Muslims are also being accused of building too many mosques and even having too many children. A comment by Monk Akmeemana Dayarathana just about sums up how Muslims are being looked at in Sri Lanka. Accusing the Muslims for increasing their population, he said, “Look around the world – Malaysia, Indonesia, Pakistan, Afghanistan and others - they were all Buddhist countries – but the Muslims destroyed the culture and then took Buddhist Monk over the country. We are worried they

32 SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 are planning that here too.” Seen in the context of this statement, the need of the hour is for the Sri Lankan government to arrange a joint session of Parliament to discuss this unruly behaviour of the Bodo Bala Sena and for the sake of protecting the diversity and freedom within its own society take appropriate measures at the political level to ensure that this violent activity does not mushroom into a crisis situation which over time may be beyond the control of the Sri Lankan government. The real question being asked is that does Bodo Bala Sena(BBS) has top-level support? To find an answer to that, BBS has been inviting in the past as chief guest, the Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaka brother of the former Sri Lankan President on the opening ceremony of its training It was after the end of the very long civil war school. Muslims all over the country are worried and look up to the Sri (1983-2009) in Sri Lanka that the BBS was Lankan government to undertake some political remedial measures to established in 2012. This war had pitted the halt this victimization of the Muslim minority in the country. Buddhist majority Sinhalese against the The onus lies on the Muslim minority community as well to do minority ethnic Tamils in the north of the everything in their power to ensure country. their social integration in society and continuing to raise their voice that Sri Lanka is a country for all communities and everyone has a right to live there The state patronage that the BBS the BBS monks not as militants but as one wants and how one wants. The enjoyed came during the time of the defenders of their own rights claiming BBS does not represent the voice of the Rajapaksa government. It was after the that “Buddhism doesn’t mean entire Sinhalese community. What the end of the very long civil war (1983- that you should allow anything to Muslim minority in Sri Lanka needs 2009) in Sri Lanka that the BBS was happen.” Now in hiding, the leader to do is to filter the hardliners from established in 2012. This war had has prevented his arrest by the police the moderate Sinhalese and build a pitted the Buddhist majority Sinhalese using the presence of a large number political framework of negotiations against the minority ethnic Tamils in of monks who surrounded him after and consultations with the leadership the north of the country. The Muslim the police made an effort in May 2017 of these moderates to be able to build minority persecution started from there to arrest him in connection with local joint pressure on the government of as many Muslims were ejected from riots aimed at attacking a mosque. Sri Lanka to step forward and protect their homes in the north. There came Is it worthwhile to allow such their rights. The hardliners cannot be a lull as the Rajpaksa government lost tension to be created between allowed free rein which will result in the elections in 2015 and the BBS lost two communities that have been creating an environment of uncertainty its patron. Rajapaksa has since than living in Sri Lanka since ages? The not good for the development of accused the BBS for having become time-tested friendship between the homogeneous culture in Sri Lankan the reason of his defeat as a large Muslim and Sinhalese communities society. number of Muslim voters did not vote is being subjected to unnecessary To understand the challenge being for him in the elections. Ganasara on challenges due to inaction of the Sri posed to the Muslim minority in Sri the other hand seems to be a man on Lankan government. The Sri Lankan Lanka, it is important to understand a mission. government would do well to carry the personality of the leader of BBS, Currently under hiding, he out some meaningful actions and the anti-Muslim nationalist religious proposes to complete his task and make necessary arrests and try those organization. He draws crowds in only after he has accomplished that hardline Sinhalese belonging to the hordes when he incites violence that he will go back to performing his BBS organization in the court of law and propagates the targeting of the religious duties. He is obsessed with so that justice is served. Sri Lanka is Muslims. His narrative is simple – ask the idea of the Sinhalese men being too beautiful a country to allow its the Sinhalese to rise and protect what able to marry only one woman and image to be tarnished by the actions is theirs and being threatened by the the Muslim men marrying four. He of very few people who can easily be Muslims – namely their religion and thinks that the 10% minority Muslim stopped and controlled. their own identity. He continues to population is bringing about a fast emphasize that he is not anti-Muslim, demographic change in the 21 million The author is a PhD in International but is anti-extremist. strong Sri Lankan society. It describes Relations.

SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 33 REGION NEPAL

(Left to right) KP Sharma Oli, Sushil Koirala and Pushpa Kamal Dehal. Two’s a Crowd Nepal’s politics could be headed towards a two-party state. There are mixed perceptions about the arrangement and it could also be a mere ‘shuffling of the cards.’

By Taha Kehar

n August 11, 2017, the Nepali possibilities of conflict among these three parties has a “king-maker role” Times carried an editorial parties and argued that such claims in forming a government and thereby Otitled ‘3-party dictatorship’, were little more than an illusion. This has the most political clout. which outlined how the “alpha males is largely because the three parties What is particularly startling of the three main political parties – the have jointly sought to preserve their about the hegemony produced by this Nepali Congress (NC), the UML and the dominance in the political sphere. three-party dictatorship is that these Maoists – dominated decision-making That the previous 10 governments in political forums are disparate and have after the country’s political transition. the country have been carved out of been at loggerheads in the past. For The editorial referred to the parties these parties provides welcome proof instance, the NC and the Maoists have as “father, son and the holy ghost of of this assumption. The editorial in the shown their ability to work in unison Nepali politics”. It drew attention Nepali Times offers a more trenchant regardless of the differences between to the ways in which Sher Bahadur explanation of this. It categorically their leaders. Deuba, KP Oli and Prime Minister states that the four coalition However, the changing nature of Pushpa Kamal Dahal have collectively governments that have held sway in Nepal’s political reality has become wielded power and influence over the the country after the 2013 elections evident after Bharatpur’s mayoral race. establishment in Kathmandu. have merely “shuffled the cards.” As As per the editorial, the “farce” was The comment refuted the a consequence, the weakest of the witnessed when NC’s president Deuba

34 SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 the main left parties – the UML, the these two groupings. As a result, Maoists and the New Force – and the political stability is likely to hold emergence of a counter ‘democratic sway. Biswo Poudel, an economist, alliance’ comprising the NC, the echoes these sentiments and believes Madhes-based parties and RPPs. These that this political development will surprising groupings are not mere fuel economic growth. However, marriages of convenience. There is this cycle of prosperity is based on arguably an ideologically underpinning a key variable: investment in human that binds them together. capital and the country’s institutions. According to analysts, this could Without these elements, stability will result in the slow but inevitable have a marginal effect on the nature creation of a two-party state in Nepal. of politics. However, there are mixed perceptions Despite all the changes that have about this arrangement. There are some taken place, there is also a nagging segments of the public that believe sense of pointlessness to these these separate blocs could produce developments. Communism in Nepal much-needed stability in a country has always been marred by splits and where political transitions have been factions and it is difficult to assume interminable. But the new alliances that these differences will be easily are not indicative of a larger change in forgotten. The UML and Maoists the political milieu. There have been have always been at odds with one no changes in the country’s political another due to a string of ideological complexion and the political actors differences. Be that as it may, there remain the same. Conservative values will undoubtedly be practical and the preponderance of caste will considerations that need to be looked be difficult to eject from mainstream into. For instance, dividing election politics. tickets and fostering a space for the Nevertheless, there is still an aura leaders of both communist parties will of mystery surrounding these changes require planning, introspection and as the situation could either swing in collective decision-making. favour of Nepal’s prosperity or pull There are countless speculations the country deeper into an abyss about the left alliance that could of instability. The November polls undermine its importance in electoral will serve as a definitive moment to politics. Many political scientists are was convinced by Dahal to withdraw determine how this change has been of the view that it is a hollow step that his party’s candidate in favour of the received. is unfeasible and cracks will begin to Maoists. Deuba was asked to support At this critical juncture, the results emerge in the alliance. If history is the prime minister’s daughter. The for the UML and Maoists in the second anything to go by, these conclusions political climate radically altered the CA elections in 2013 and local polls appear somewhat legitimate. NC and the Maoists decided to join held this year are the only yardstick to The new communist alliance has hands to defeat the UML candidate. predict the outcomes of the November raised questions over Nepal’s relations In another display of flimsy election. So far, it appears that the with China. These concerns are not solidarity, the three parties also held unified left is likely to assume public surprising as China has increased its meetings to deliberate the demands office for the next five years. This influence in the region over the years. of Dr Govinda KC who was fasting would be an unprecedented feat in Beijing gave Kathmandu $1 million to ensure changes were introduced the country’s political sphere and during the local elections in Nepal in medical education. This appeared signal a move towards strengthening that were held in May and perceptions to be little more than a cosmetic democracy in Nepal. However, the about China have remained measure and it is difficult to extricate question of what lies ahead still largely favourable. But would this the sectional interests of these parties remains rather ambiguous. inadvertently affect Nepal’s relations from this move. As per initial reports, the UML, with India? The editorial published in the the Maoists and the New Force have Most policy experts have ruled out Nepali Times warned that the three expressed an intention to unite after the possibility of a perceived shift in parties had ruled Nepal for a decade the polls and rebrand as the Nepal foreign relations. India shares cultural and have significant control over Communist Party. However, this is and historical roots with Nepal and various constitutional institutions. entirely contingent on their success the latter often seeks its input in most As a result, there was a strong sense in the November election. There is matters. At this critical juncture, of disenchantment with the political considerable uncertainty over whether asking which of the two camps parties. Social media and opinion the alliance will hold water if the will assume power would be rather leaders had also whipped up a frenzy poll results are not in line with their myopic. Instead, the focus should and brought people’s anxieties and fear expectations. be on achieving stability on both the to the surface. The editorial comment Meanwhile, analysts have pointed domestic, regional and international emphasized the need for a “credible out that the democratic alliance seems fronts. The new regime will need to alternative force” that could do away weaker at this stage. However, it may find a convenient means to balance with the status quo. have a structural advantage over the these policy considerations without Two months later, the seeds of opposing camp. upsetting the key players. change were sown by the unexpected Political analysts feel that Nepal’s announcement of the alliance between political pendulum will swing between The writer is a journalist and author.

SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 35 REGION BHUTAN

Towards Mature Elections The election scenario in Bhutan is in for a shake-up in 2018, as more parties jump into the fray, candidates have more to promise and voters have a wider choice.

By K. A. Naqshbandi

hough general elections in is vital for creating a healthy political 8 lakh people. But then, the people Bhutan are held in a measured culture in the country. As parties get in of Bhutan are happy to have more Tand prescribed manner, with the mode, voters hope they would put choices. Since this is going to be the strict rules including not littering the the nation’s interest first and workers at third general elections, the Bhutan countryside with posters or graffiti, the the grassroots would collectively work media is of the view that voters political scene is throbbing with life towards making the 2018 elections will also be comparatively smart in as the 2018 general election is around a democratic experience worth selecting the deserving party to rule the corner. Parties are getting in the remembering. the country. They believe that with the required mode. While some are still Bhutan has at least seven parties passage of time the number of political working on their manifestoes, some are in the run for the coming general parties will reduce to two or three as busy selecting capable and winnable elections --- definitely a bit too much, the election results will automatically candidates. Other parties have already considering a population of about eliminate the less popular parties from selected their candidates while the political scene. After the 2018 some are getting ready to file elections, some mergers between applications for registration with the parties may also take place, the election commission. In bringing down the number to short, the political parties and three. aspiring candidates are getting In April 2007, to help the ready for the challenge in 2018. Bhutanese understand the Political parties in Bhutan concept of voting for political have now come of age and are parties, a mock election was mature enough to understand organised. Four ‘parties’ their responsibility towards their participated, which included the voters and the nation as a whole. Druk Blue Party, the Druk Green Political parties in any democratic Party, the Druk Red Party and the country are undoubtedly Druk Yellow Party. Each colour important institutions and represented a certain value: blue play a critical role in electoral for fairness and transparency, democracy. Despite being a very green for environmental young democracy, the Bhutanese concerns, red for development understand that parties can and industrialization, and yellow make or break democracy so a for traditional values. The Druk constructive election campaign Yellow Party won 46 out of the

36 SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 first political party, the PDP, when it was formed in August, 2007. Of late, at least two new political parties have declared their interest to contest in the 2018 parliamentary elections. These two emerging parties are Druk Gaki Tshogpa and Druk Kuenphen Tshogpa. If these parties get registered with the Election Commission of Bhutan (ECB), the number of political parties in the country would stand at seven. The five other parties include People's Democratic Party (PDP), Druk Phuensum Tshogpa (DPT), Bhutan Kuen-Nyam Party (BKP), Druk Nyamrup Tshogpa (DNT) and Druk Chirwang Tshogpa (DCT). That would mean around one political party for every one hundred thousand Bhutanese. For the Election Commission of Bhutan (ECB), this would mean extra work. There is a general belief that there has to be a more rigorous process of vetting while registering political parties so that only serious and credible parties are allowed to contest the elections. The logic is simple. According to Bhutan’s ruling party, ‘Large number of politic parties can shake the very foundation and fabric of our society. And particularly for a small nation, the ramifications of 47 seats in the mock elections. It to Prime Minister, is being termed political division could be disastrous. might have been a mere coincidence as ‘democracy is taking roots in We have witnessed a milder impact that yellow is the closest colour to the Bhutan.’ A Bhutanese politician of political division in the first saffron scarf worn by the kings and the who has been the Prime Minister of parliamentary election in 2008 and a Je Khenpo, the chief abbot of Bhutan. Bhutan since 2013, Tobgay is leader stronger one in the last one.’ With the successful culmination of the People's Democratic Party The word going around in Bhutan of the elections, the foundation of --- Bhutan’s first registered political is that politics in 2018 is going to democracy i.e. government of the party and he was also the Leader be a bit nasty because more parties people, by the people and for the of the Opposition in the National are taking part in the elections. Such people was laid in the Kingdom of Assembly from March 2008 to April views and perceptions, even if they Bhutan. 2013. He is considered to be an may not necessarily be true, are The introduction of democracy able leader. Encouragingly enough, based on the experiences of the 2013 and delegation of power to the the National Assembly of Bhutan elections. Bhutan is currently in the elected representatives of the country still functions with monotonous middle of a grand process with so is the direct outcome of the decision decorum, especially compared to the many parties and a huge number of by Bhutan’s fourth king, King Jigme raucous standards practiced in some candidates in the field. The situation Singye Wangchuck who voluntarily countries. Legislators in the Bhutan poses a number of questions, such handed over power to his people, and National Assembly rarely speak as: Will it be possible for political this is what makes it so very special out of turn. There is no noise in the parties to mobilize the required for the people of Bhutan who love House. But issues are debated with number of candidates fulfilling their king and queen. The test of how dynamism and conviction. The king the requisite criteria? Will ECB be well-established this new democracy addresses the House at the beginning prepared for hiccups that could crop is was witnessed in the general of a session if he chooses to do so. up anytime? What about the need election of 2013. The emergence of Tshering Tobgay, who went on for human resources like polling more political parties in the country to become the opposition leader officers, security personnel, election is seen as an encouraging sign by in Parliament, was one of the first officials and the like? What about political observers in Bhutan. They people to enter politics, after he fixed assets and delimitation services are sure that with further growth retired from the prestigious post of including electronic voting machines of democracy, the population and Director at the Ministry of Labour and establishment of election offices number of political parties would and Human Resources to serve his at village or town level, among definitely strike a perfect balance. king and country by following the others? Prime Minister Tobgay‘s smooth king’s wishes to strengthen the roots transition from opposition leader of democracy by joining Bhutan’s The writer is a free-lance journalist.

SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 37 REGION THE MALDIVES Freedom under Trial Democracy and freedom in the Maldives is somewhat in a quasi state of affairs since the judiciary there is constantly compromised and what the serving President Abdulla Yameen and his government lays down is what is followed.

By Huzaima Bukhari and Dr. Ikramul Haq

“Man’s passion for freedom is great that witnessed amendments during the Constitution. Despite the public’s but this passion has often been limited 1970, 1972, 1975, 1997 and the demand of retributive action against by the ruling authorities. Sometimes even latest constitution ratification in 2008. judges involved in corrupt practices, the bare minimum of freedom needed Although, this opened the avenues for there appears no will on the part of the by those in power, is concentrated in multi-party elections but left in its wake Judicial Service Commission to take the hands of a single individual or a many questions regarding decisions of concrete measures to defend its judges. small group of people. As legislatures the judicial system that is showing a As a result, on August 30, 2017, a and executives are generally dominated clear tilt towards political interests rather group of fifty six lawyers signed and by the same party, they also enact and than imparting justice and upholding tried to present a petition to the Supreme act without any regard to the people’s will and interests. In this situation the judiciary remains the only institution to which individual may appeal for help and once the verdict goes against such an enactment, the executives and legislature are expected to retrace their steps if the democratic norms have to survive” —Anonymous

Democracy in civilized countries thrives on the strength of judiciary that is responsible for upholding and defending the guiding principles of their constitution. In the midst of World War II when London was being bombarded by the Germans, Winston Churchill is said to express his optimism in the fact that if justice was being disseminated and the courts were functioning, nothing could go wrong. Such is the level of confidence in the power of judiciary. However, in countries with nascent democracies, especially those that were formerly under colonial rule, a totally different situation prevails as apparent from various judicial pronouncements which tend to protect a handful of so- called democratically elected leaders in utter disregard of the constitutional provisions and at the expense of their people’s disappointment in the system. In 1968 after a referendum, the Maldives government shifted from a sultanate to a republic, making Ibrahim Nasir, former prime minister, the president. From here starts the constitutional history of the country

38 SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 Court to attract the attention of the like some mentioned here: interests. In other words, the judicial government towards addressing their • Over a span of the last four years, system has become hostage to the concerns with respect to some crucial cases of high profile politicians were whims of political masters, who are issues related to the judicial system decided in closed proceedings within ruthlessly undermining the prestige of the Maldives. Among the many a short period and without fulfilling of this noble institution. The much grievances of the legal fraternity the most the norms of justice, equality or needed increase in the number of emphatic one is the high-handedness of fair trial as required under the High Court judges is still awaited some judges who, instead of redressing constitution. Hurried trials together while the quality of magistrates is complaints and criticisms about the with announcement of verdicts obvious from the fact that many are courts’ malfunctioning, retaliate by at midnight speak volumes about not conversant with the Penal Code. issuance of press releases threatening partiality on the part of courts. • The role of both the Attorney General dire consequences. According to the • Despite contrary provisions of and the Prosecutor General has been petitioners, the judiciary should reclaim the Terrorism Act, allegations of highly criticized as they have failed the public’s trust by showing a dignified terrorism were proven against to fulfill their obligations under the attitude and genuinely passing orders political adversaries in a slipshod Constitution to safeguard rights of the that are not politically motivated or have manner that was tainted with mala people. They are accused of harping indications of corrupt practices. These fide intentions by the peculiar nature political tunes instead of establishing are indeed very serious allegations but of trials conducted day and night and rule of law. are not without any basis. The 2008 at the expense of delaying justice to In their attempt to present this Constitution clearly lays down, among the common man. petition to the Supreme Court, the many other rights, non-discrimination • The courts have been accused Department of Judicial Administration (Article 17), fair administrative action of remanding political prisoners that operates under its supervision, (Article 43), rights of the accused (Article merely on reports submitted by the suspended 54 lawyers for an indefinite 51), etc. and if these are not observed, it police and ignoring the conditions period pending contempt of court would clearly tantamount to violating the envisaged in article 49 which reads hearing. They were accused of, “… supreme law of the land as mentioned in as follows: interfering with the work of the Judiciary, the petition. Observations of members “No person shall be detained in custody attempting to exert influence, writing an of the public to this effect cannot be prior to sentencing unless the danger unlawful document in violations of the ignored, especially if these are supported of the accused absconding or not jurisdiction, procedures and judgements by substantial evidence from real life, appearing at trial, the protection of of the courts, signing that document [and] the public, or potential interference creating difficulties for the Maldivian with witnesses or evidence dictate Judiciary.” otherwise….” Article 27 of the Constitution gives • The Constitution vide Article 51 freedom of thought and the freedom to forbids a court from sentencing in communicate opinions and expression absentia, yet judgement against in a manner that is not contrary to any a political figure was passed at tenet of Islam; while Article 32 permits midnight while he was hospitalized freedom of peaceful assembly without for fainting in the court. According prior permission of the State; yet these to the petition, the court, in its protesting lawyers which include the enthusiasm was unable to wait until former Attorney General, were harshly sunrise which evidences the fact treated by government functionaries. The that the legal system is poised in four-party Opposition coalition headed favour of political agenda rather than by former President Maumoon Abdul defending the supreme law of the Gayoom claims that the suspended land. lawyers represent 30% of licenced • There are instances of judges being practitioners in the Maldives which pressurised by ruling institutions would prevent individuals unfairly with unfair tactics, including threats targeted by President Yameen’s regime of suspension, removal from posts, from finding effective legal counsel. transfers, etc. To aggravate matters, These events clearly indicate that persons of questionable character the country with democracy still in its and competence are appointed to teething stage is prone to be maligned serve vested interests. with the dictatorial tendencies of the • The Supreme Court is accused of elected leaders, particularly for the over-stepping its jurisdiction and purpose of restraining political opponents exerting undue influence on the and stifling protesting voices. The ability body of lawyers that was earlier not to take criticism constructively being managed by the office of the proves beyond doubt that the underlying Attorney General. Consequently, motive of these measures is to establish matters related to issuance of licences dictatorship in the name of the public to new graduates are unnecessarily at the expense of usurping their rights, delayed, outspoken lawyers are guaranteed under the Constitution. being victimized while no action is taken against the delinquent ones. The writers, lawyers and partners in • There is a general belief that the HUZAIMA & IKRAM, are Adjunct Faculty Judicial Service Commission has at Lahore University of Management been organized to serve political Sciences (LUMS).

SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 39 INTERNATIONAL

The Right-Wing Flood

The impact of the September 2017 elections in Germany will be far-reaching. There is a surge of right-wing parties in Europe in reaction to the influx of millions of migrants since 2015. Angela Merkel, even in her victory, is fragile. She may have succeeded in holding the flood for the present but the developments after her exit are hard to predict.

By Dr. Moonis Ahmar

redictably, the coalition of Christian CDU, CSU and SDP was the ultra-right repercussions in Denmark, Finland, Democratic Union (CDU) and wing alternative for Germany, the AfD Austria, the Netherlands and France, PChristian Social Union (CSU) won which secured 13.3% percent votes and the countries which are vulnerable as the September 24 elections in Germany emerged as a third force in Germany. far as the surge of anti-immigrant forces thus paving the way for the fourth term While Merkel may form a coalition is concerned. For instance, right wing of Angela Merkel as the Chancellor. Yet, government with the Greens Party and political parties and groups which will the performance of Merkel in recent other smaller parties, the implications of get motivation from the electoral results elections was dismal as her coalition the September elections in Germany on of the German elections and the rise of secured only 32.5% votes, whereas Europe will be enormous. Certainly, the AfD are the National Front in France, even worse was the performance of surge of right-wing parties and groups in Freedom Party in the Netherlands, the SPD, with only 20% votes. The real Europe following the influx of millions Freedom Party in Austria, Finns Party beneficiary of electoral decline of the of migrants in 2015 onwards will have in Finland, Progress Party in Norway,

40 SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 Jobbik Party in Hungary, National 1984 elections but secured a landslide her fragile victory is not allowed further. Alliance in Latvia, Conservative People’s victory in the 2014 elections. Likewise, Germany is Europe’s strongest economy Party in Estonia, Swiss People’s Party the Nazi Socialist Party was also not an and any dent in the country’s political in Switzerland, Danish People’s Party electoral threat to the Weimer Republic system is bound to have a domino in Denmark, New Flemish Alliance in till the time it emerged as the single effect on the European Union’s strong Belgium, Swedes Democrats in Sweden, largest party in January 1933 elections structures like the European parliament, United Kingdom Independence Party in in Germany. Therefore, the AfD may European Central Bank and so forth. This Britain, Golden Brown in Greece, Lega also aspire to capture more seats in the will perhaps be the last term in office Nord in Italy, Congress of New Right in next general elections so that as a neo- for Chancellor Merkel and therefore she Poland and many more. Nazi party it can follow the footsteps needs to work out a plan for a stable EU It seems, in the days to come, the of the Nazi Socialist Party of Adolf once she is out of office in 2021. She real threat in Europe will emerge from Hitler by capturing power in Germany also needs to be mindful of the need to those political parties and groups who and launch another round of ethnic prevent the further political gains of the have a clear approach and policy for cleansing not of Jews but of non-white AfD in future German elections so that zero tolerance as far as immigrants are immigrants. the tide of the far right in Germany and concerned. Since the bulk of refugees Three implications of the fragile in Europe is stopped if not reversed. who sneaked into Europe on 2015 and electoral victory of Angela Merkel A weak government of Chancellor after are Muslims, the level of intolerance which one can figure out on the Merkel would mean advantages for the and extremism against Muslims will European political scene are: first, the French President Emmanuel Macron as surge in the days to come. anti-immigrant forces represented in he can push her for supporting his vision In an article entitled, “Weakened various right-wing political parties for a unified Europe, including changes Merkel begins the tough job of forming stretching from Latvia to France and in economic, defence and immigration coalition” by Kate Connolly published from Italy to Norway will certainly seek policies. It means the French initiative in The Guardian Weekly on September more coordination with like-minded and lead in transforming EU according to 29, 2017, the writer argues that, “The parties in those countries where liberal new realities. Had Merkel won elections AfD swept into the Bundestag with and socialist forces are still strong. with better results, her bargaining 13.6% of the vote, almost 8 points more However, one should not undermine the power with her EU counterparts than 2013, when it failed to secure seats. fact that while Merkel was not hostile particularly France would have been This means it will have an estimated 94 to immigrants and welcomed them in strengthened. But now compelled to out of 709 seats in the parliament.” But, Germany in 2015, her ally, the Christian form a government with smaller parties the BJP had only 3 seats in the lower Social Union is quite antagonistic to while accepting their conditions for house of the Indian parliament in the foreigners. Even within the rank and file supporting her government, would of the CDU, there are elements who may mean a weak bargaining position. have a soft corner for the AfD but cannot Merkel’s fragile victory in the support them only. In fact, Alternatives German elections will not only reinforce secured more votes in 2017 than in the ultra-right anti-immigrant parties and 2013 elections because it was able to groups but will also pose a challenge lure the voters of CDU. Nevertheless, to those conservative parties, which are German election results will have a not holding a hard line position against trickledown effect in European politics. immigration. Yet, it seems, AfD’s better Second, the pyrrhic victory of Merkel performance in the German elections will, however, not put any dent as far has been exaggerated because the party as the unity of Europe is concerned. is still in its rudimentary phase and it While one common characteristic of will take that ultra-right party several right-wing political parties and groups years to establish a significant vote bank of Europe is their negative stance as far and mark in German and European as the European Union is concerned, politics. Furthermore, to expect the but the rejection of the National Front surge of the neo-Nazis in Germany and in recent French elections means that their counterparts in other European Europe’s second largest country will countries is misleading. Seventy two not join anti-EU forces. With French years after the end of the Second World President Emmanuel Macron, who War and the destruction which was defeated the right wing Marine Le Pen caused because of Nazi-Fascist nexus, of the National Front, Merkel can plan it may be naïve to expect the people of for giving a new shape to the European Europe to again plunge their continent Union which was jolted after Brexit. into ethnic and religious cleansing. If For the time being the threat of further some lunatic fringes have been able weakening of the EU is over but in the to get space because of the immigrant long run, if right wing parties come to crisis in Europe, particularly since 2015, power or achieve sizeable electoral it doesn’t mean that the tolerant and votes, one can expect the deepening of saner people of Europe will allow forces challenge as far as the issue of European of hate and xenophobia to destabilize unity is concerned. their continent and repeat inhuman Third, Merkel as the longest practices of the Second World War. surviving German leader after winning the fourth term in office and will now The writer is Meritorious Professor of have to make sure that the downslide International Relations at the University of the Euro which was witnessed after of Karachi.

SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 41 INTERNATIONAL

Desire for Change

Far-right populism is gaining momentum in Europe and will be tested in the coming years. Right-wing parties are gaining strength across the EU. They are likely to influence the policies and actions of their governments about immigration and other related issues.

By Sajjad Ahmad

erman post-war democracy Angela Merkel’s Christian Democratic (AfD) gained in these polls. With its is strong. No amalgam with Union (CDU) took the lead in polls anti-immigrant and Islamophobic “G 1933.” Referring to the and Merkel became successful for the ideology, AfD got thirteen per cent votes year when Adolph Hitler’s National German chancellorship for the fourth and secured third position. The rising Socialist Party came into power in time, the dramatic decrease in the vote popularity of AfD as evident in surge Germany, the comments were made bank of CDU shocked the political and of its vote bank brought the far-right by Pierre Moscovici, the European diplomatic circles of the EU. CDU got party in German parliament for the first Union’s Commissioner for Economic near thirty four per cent of the votes, time. While AfD’s achievement made and Financial Affairs. Moscovici was the least since 1949. the EU leaders worried, its success was the first EU official to comment on the A more severe shock for the EU hailed by the right-wing parties of the much awaited results of Germany’s leaders was the support the German EU member states. In her tweet, French federal election of 2017. Though right-wing party Alternate for Germany far-right National Front’s leader Marine

42 SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 Le Pen wrote “Bravo to our allies from week in July 2016 — the axe attack on In the French election of May 2017, AfD for this historic score! It’s a new a train, mass shootings in Munich, the Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Front symbol of the awakening of the people machete attack and a suicide attack in (FN) came second. Marine Le Pen is also of Europe”. Ansbach — Merkel said that a halt in a Eurosceptic and calls for France’s pull- AfD was formed in 2013 in the this humanitarian stance would lead to out from the EU. Her party demanded wake of the Greek economic crisis more dire consequences. closing French borders and cutting and challenged the bailouts of EU’s Other than the challenges of refugees down immigration and raised the threat southern member states. The manifesto and violent attacks mainly in Germany, of Islamic fundamentalism to mobilize called for the suspension of the Euro as France, Belgium and Spain, Merkel also the voters. Due to the on-going refugee a currency, end monetary help to the dealt with the economic crisis of 2008, crisis and high unemployment rates, Le member states facing debt crisis and the Greece debt crisis and the Ukrainian Pen’s ideology seemed to attract voters less centralisation of power in Brussels, crisis – the latter brought Germany at and she got 2.8 million more votes than the EU’s headquarter. The leaders of the odds with Russia. She played a key role her father – the founder of the party – party called it a new force but in the in dealing with the aforementioned got in 2002. The margin with which FN 2013 election AfD failed to gain five per crises. The Russian takeover of Crimea was defeated in 2002 was 81 per cent cent votes (necessary for every party in drew sharp criticism from Germany: as compared to 66 per cent in 2017. Germany to enter the parliament). Merkel called the Russian actions This proved Le Pen’s rising popularity When the refugee crisis hit Europe in unacceptable and against the peace and the presence of her strong support 2015, AfD changed its political stance. order that has been maintained in base in France. Results of the recent The party’s narrative then applied a Europe since the end of the Second Austrian election of October 15, 2017, harsh anti-immigrant and anti-Islamic World War. Germany’s determination have also sent alarm bells to Brussels. tone. Since 2015, AfD demands a to end hostilities in Europe and foster The nationalist and far-right Freedom closure of the EU’s external border and cooperation among states after the Party (FPO) is on course to enter the calls for strict surveillance of its member WWII has been instrumental. From the parliament as it has emerged as the states’ borders in order to stop refugees early days of establishing the European second largest party after Austria’s and illegal migrants from entering the Coal and Steel Community (ECSC) in snap election. The conservative EU. The party demands expulsion of 1950 – which laid the foundation of People’s Party (OVP) – emerged as the those asylum seekers from Germany economic integration of six Western winner – and has already adopted the whose applications have been rejected, European states – till the formation of nationalists’ rhetoric such as securing reduction in the refugee intake and to the European Union in 1993, and later Austria’s border and deporting asylum make integration in German society in the Union’s enlargements, Germany seekers whose requests are denied, etc. compulsory for the refugees. On its has been playing a leading role in OVP is likely to form a coalition with anti-Islamic front, the party maintains strengthening the Union and promoting the Freedom Party. that Islam is incompatible with cooperation in Europe. The impact of far-right populism German society and German language, The EU is now passing through in Europe is going to be tested in the culture and values must be protected another difficult phase in which far- coming years. The populist agendas and encouraged. This tilt in AfD’s right populism is on the rise. The of the right-wing parties, which are propaganda became pivotal for the result of German polls is an example. gaining strength across the EU, are party and it started attaining popularity. The reasons behind this phenomenon likely to influence the policies and In the sixteen states of Germany, AfD are considered to be the on-going actions of their governments about successfully gained parliamentary seats refugee crisis and the recent wave immigration and other related issues. of thirteen states in regional elections. of violence and terrorism in a few Austria has implemented a ban on a The growing popularity of AfD and its western European states. Right wing full-face veil from first October. Merkel, success in the federal election of 2017 parties have found new political space who previously defended her open- has alarmed the political circles of the and their anti-immigrant propaganda door policy towards refugees strongly, EU. proved to be a popular alternative has now agreed to limit the number of Despite the progress on the within European countries. Earlier refugee intake and grant asylum to a economic front and a decline in this year in the Netherland’s election maximum of 200,000 refugees per year unemployment ratio in Germany, of March 2017, the main contest was - similar demands by different political CDU and its coalition partner, Social between the Dutch Prime Minister leaders were previously rejected by Democratic Party (SPD) failed to Mark Rutte’s centre-right People’s Party Merkel. Being in a weak position meet the expectations of the voters. for Freedom and Democracy VVD and as compared to the previous terms, Undoubtedly, the refugee crisis became Geert Wilders’ Freedom Party, PVV Chancellor Merkel is going to face the the central issue in determining the which is considered Eurosceptic and challenges of the changing European outcome of the election. The assertive anti-Islam. Though PVV was defeated political landscape. Her first test case propaganda of the right-wing groups, and got 20 seats against VVD’s 33 in a is her own country where the AfD has pressures from various political and 150-member parliament, one should emerged as the third largest party and social circles against Merkel’s open- not neglect the fact that PVV gained is now a voice in the lower parliament. door policy towards refugees and the five more seats and VVD was eight As Matteo Salvini, one of Italy’s leading incidents of violence remained some of seats below from the previous election right-wing politicians and leader of the challenges that Merkel and her party of 2012. The Islamophobic rhetoric of right-wing Northern League party while faced. The Berlin Christmas market PVV – pledging for ‘de-Islamisation of congratulating AfD, wrote, “The desire attack in December 2016 that killed the Netherlands,” cease immigration for change is growing. It’s up to us”. 12 people and left dozens injured, was from Muslim countries, a ban on the blamed on Merkel by AfD due to over Quran and shut-down of all mosques – The writer is a senior Research Fellow a million refugees intake in Germany. and call of pulling out the Netherlands at the Area Study Centre for Europe, Earlier, amid the violent incidents that from the EU has a wide appeal in the University of Karachi and a visiting took place in Germany over a single Netherlands. faculty member at IBA, Karachi.

SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 43 NEIGHBOUR THAILAND

he power tussle between the Shinawatras and Thailand’s Testablishment has dominated the political milieu for over a decade. Bangkok’s military elite and royalists have viewed the influential political dynasty cultivated by former prime ministers Yingluck Shinawatra and Thaksin Shinawatra with scorn. Over time, this long-standing struggle did little to dent the popularity of both siblings among the neglected rural and urban poor. However, circumstances took a surprisingly bleak turn when the military junta toppled the caretaker government led by Yingluck in 2014. Since the bloodless coup, the military- led government has found countless grounds to victimize the supporters of the Shinawatras. On September 27, 2017, the verdict delivered by Thailand’s Supreme Court against Yingluck serves as an attempt by the military junta to weaken the dynasty through political persecution. The court sentenced Yingluck to five years in prison over her failure to prevent the “fake and corruption-plagued” sale of rice under a rice-pledging scheme. The judgment was delivered in absentia as she had fled the country in late August. The verdict was initially expected to be delivered on August 25. But Yingluck, who has repeatedly denied allegations of mismanaging the rice subsidy scheme, did not turn up at the court. Although her lawyer cited health reasons for her absence, the court was reluctant to accept the excuse. The verdict was initially delayed and an arrest warrant was issued against Yingluck. Prayuth Chan-ocha, the prime minister of Thailand and the junta chief, grew increasingly suspicious Climb-back and immediately tightened border checks to prevent Yingluck from leaving the country. These measures proved to be largely ineffective as the former PM managed to slip out of the country. At first, little was known to Democracy about her whereabouts. With time, Prayuth Chan-ocha capitalized on the situation to equate Yingluck’s departure Yingluck Shinawatra’s mysterious disappearance from as a form of political suicide. On September 28, he insisted that she had Thailand has left a sea of questions in its wake. There may fled to Dubai where her brother has be good reason for the people to bring the Shinawatra gone into self-imposed exile to evade a jail sentence for graft allegations. family back into power following elections in 2019. He vowed to bring her back to the country through diplomatic channels By Taha Kehar and police assistance. A day before the verdict, Prayuth hinted that he knew about Yingluck’s his claims, the PM said that he had investigate Yingluck’s getaway. DNA whereabouts but chose to remain “spies” who had provided him this sampling was carried out from a Toyota evasive until the judgment was issued. information. Camry bearing a fake number plate In order to prove the veracity of Copious attempts were made to that the former PM used to escape.

44 SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 Without Yingluck, the opposition lacks adequate strength and would fail to criticize the military government’s political conduct in a trenchant manner.

potentially give the junta a free rein in Sirote Klampaiboon, a political determining the affairs of the state and scientist, echoed these sentiments. clamping down on pockets of dissent. He maintained that it was possible to Experts on Thai politics have touted swiftly amend the relevant legislation Yingluck’s departure as a critical as only a handful of revisions were achievement for the military. Paul required. Attasit Pankaew, a critic on Chambers, who belongs to this set of political affairs, has argued that while analysts, is of the view that by pulling a timetable may have been specified the former PM out of the equation, in the constitution on delaying polls, the junta has rid itself of “a potential the people’s sentiments must be given thorn in their side who could become significance in these matters. a martyr if jailed, or a powerful Other analysts believe that an politician again if she is not.” unnecessary delay in the elections A major sticking point involved could be viewed as a sign of political the military junta’s plans to delay instability and reduce investor the polls. Although the ruling junta confidence. However, this largely had pledged to conduct elections in depends on the manner in which these 2018, a series of amendments to the delays are justified by the government constitution guaranteed a significant and how susceptible the public is to role for the military in matters of the explanation provided. governance. America’s growing proximity Prayuth has remained largely non- with Thailand could also serve as a committal in announcing a date for the disincentive for the military junta to elections. He repeatedly stated that follow the people’s agenda. Instead, the elections may either be conducted there is strong likelihood that the next year or be postponed until 2019. military-led government will use its This was not the first time that the new-found foreign relations with an junta chief had gone back on his estranged ally to its advantage. word. Ever since the military takeover, As Trump received Prayuth at the the PM had promised an election and White House, he informed journalists duly announced its postponement at that the US will begin exporting more A strict deadline was also issued for least four times. to Thailand. Establishing trade ties the relevant authorities to release the During his meeting with US will close the gap that was created results for the DNA tests. Police officers President Donald Trump on October between both countries when Obama were detained for interrogation. 3, Prayuth presented a timeline for the drifted away from the country after While tangible steps were put polls. As per the prime minister, the the 2014 coup. Trump’s plans to in place to give Yingluck’s escape a election date would be announced bolster trade with Thailand could be criminal complexion, the rumour mills in 2018 without any further hurdles billed as a concerted effort to push the churned out a different story. It was or delays. However, it would take country away from Chinese influence. widely believed that Yingluck struck a 150 days to organize the polls as a After obtaining Washington’s seat of deal with the military elite as it would string of laws need to be promulgated approval, it is unlikely that the junta not have been politically expedient before the elections. The process is will prioritize elections. Instead, it will for them to put the former PM behind likely to be completed by November find ways to justify delays and ignore bars. However, the military-led 2018. If this timeline is anything to go the wishes of Thailand’s people. government appeared to be using by, there is a strong likelihood that the In the absence of a strong her absence to taint her political polls would be conducted in March or opposition, it would be difficult to image and sully the reputation of the April of 2019. maintain checks and balances in Shinawatras. This can be evidenced Academics and analysts have Thailand’s foreign policy and ensure from the junta’s attorney-general’s voiced objections over these that electoral promises are fulfilled. statement on October 6 that Thaksin unjustifiable delays. Even former prime The military junta would inevitably would be charged with royal insult minister Abhisit Vejjajiva believes emerge as a powerful political player and computer crimes. this legislative process is little more that has suppressed its competitors Through these politically-motivated than a pretext to further postpone the and overlooked the public mandate. cases, the junta dealt a critical blow to elections. Abhisit strongly believes that This will undoubtedly have drastic the opposition. Without Yingluck, the concerns over the relevant legislation consequences on the spirit of opposition lacks adequate strength are unreasonable. He urged the regime democracy and add to the disparities and would fail to criticize the military to stop producing circumstances that within an already polarized society. government’s political conduct in would make it unfavourable to hold a trenchant manner. This could elections. The writer is a journalist and author.

SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 45

SPECIAL FEATURE

Dr. Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin The 53rd Da’i al-Mutlaq of the Dawoodi Bohras

SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 47 SPECIAL FEATURE

Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin Leading Hearts By Maryam Sadriwala

verywhere Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin goes, thousands of Ecommunity members gather for a glimpse of their charismatic leader and their eyes well up with tears of love. His Holiness Dr. Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, the 53rd Dai al Mutlaq, is the spiritual head of the Dawoodi Bohra community. His glowing countenance, his athletic stride, his beaming smile and never-ending energy matches that of a dozen young men. The Dai al Mutlaq has been seen leading morning prayers in India, addressing a congregation of 25, 000 in Karachi and paying respects at the holy shrines of Iraq at night. All this, H. H. Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin meeting Pakistan President Mamnoon Hussain. while the people he meets, community members and others alike, beseech his days of September 2017. areas - all thronged with Bohra visitors advice and guidance which he offers In Karachi this year, over 30,000 who saw for themselves that Karachi is thoughtfully and compassionately. This community members from over 30 truly a metropolis and far from the city is the manner in which he actively and different countries, springing from of discontent it has been dubbed as. dynamically leads his community in continents including Asia, North Local Bohras opened up their hearts these fast-paced times. America, Europe, Africa and Australia, and homes to foreign guests, some of Ashara Mubaraka in Karachi joined their 35,000 Pakistani Bohra whom they had never met in their lives His Holiness has a unique brethren to be in Syedna’s august before. Bus companies were hired to persona and philosophy which were presence. ferry attendees from different parts of evident during Ashara Mubaraka - the During his one-month trip to the city to Taheri Masjid, Saddar where Moharram congregation - 1439 Hijri Karachi which began on September Syedna was leading the discourses. this year which he held in Karachi. 14, 2017, Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin The Honourable Governor of Sindh, Ashara Mubaraka refers to a period of and his followers heralded a revival of Mr. Muhammed Zubair, the Honourable ten days at the beginning of the Islamic the city of lights. Chief Minister, Mr. Murad Ali Shah and year dedicated to the remembrance of Hotels and guest houses were Mayor Karachi, Mr. Waseem Akhtar the Prophet Mohammed (SAW) and packed with foreigners. Cabs, rent- also attended sermons in Taheri Masjid his Ahle Bayt (AS) (family and kin), a-car services and rickshaws were on 24th September and were impressed specifically his grandson Imam Husain in demand like never before. From by the discipline and unique nature of Ibne Ali (AS). This year the event was roadside food eateries to the more the congregation. The Mayor, in one commemorated during the last ten affluent fast food joints and shopping of the later sermons, also presented ‘The Key to the City of Karachi’ to His Holiness. During his stay His Holiness met His Excellency, the President of Pakistan, Mr. Mamnoon Husain and His Excellency, the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mr. Shahid Khakan Abbasi as well as other prominent politicians and government officials. The trust His Holiness and the community put into the city and its government, and the subsequent peaceful manner in which Ashara Mubaraka was conducted has resulted in many foreigners perceiving the city as worth investing in. Illustrious Father to an Exemplary Son H. H. Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin meeting Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi. The Dawoodi Bohra community has

48 SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 SPECIAL FEATURE

risen to prosperity of unprecedented heights under the 52nd Dai al Mutlaq, the late Dr. Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin who led the community for over 40 years. His son, Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, was born on August 20, 1946 in Surat, India and stayed like a shadow by his illustrious father’s side, watching the incomparable persona of his father and the changing world through his eyes. After Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin’s demise in January 2014, the community was reeling with grief. Only someone with the astounding sincerity and perception of Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin could have assumed the task of consoling his A front view of Al Jamea Tus Saifiyah, Karachi. followers and taking up the reins of the community after his father’s demise with such ease and fluidity. Educational Endeavours In every community or nation, it is the emphasis on education that drives it to success. For the Fatimid Imams and their vicegerents, the Fatimid Duaat, their distinct axiom of philosophical and empirical knowledge has spearheaded all their progress and helped community members equip themselves for the changing times. For this purpose, the Arabic Academy of Al Jamea Tus Saifiyah was established two centuries ago and is an example of an academic institution which prepares not just minds but also H.H. Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin addressing the annual souls. The prototype was the Academy congregation of Dawoodi Bohras in Karachi this year. in Surat after which the Karachi, Nairobi and Mumbai branches were established. The syllabus is a learning the message of Allah which is community. The institute’s expansive thoughtful amalgamation of spiritual, the fountainhead of all knowledge. global network disburses interest-free philosophical and secular education There is a high literacy rate in the loans to community members fulfilling well-grounded in Fatimid Islamic community thanks to the global chain their micro and macro financial philosophy. of community schools which impart needs. Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin had a balance of spiritual and secular Architectural Renaissance been one of the rectors of this Academy knowledge with the help of the latest Buildings and monuments are for decades before he assumed the state-of-the-art technical facilities to the encasement of a culture and office of Dai. Like his predecessors the young of the community. philosophy in stone and mortar. before him, he sits for hours with these Apart from traders there are a Fatimid architecture continues to students supervising their annual oral large number of qualified male and be the synthesis of the values of the examinations every year, taking out female professionals in the community glorious Fatemi Imams. One of the time from his inexhaustible routine ranging from reputed doctors, lawyers, greatest restoration projects undertaken and directly supervising each pupil’s and engineers to IT professionals who by the late Syedna Mohammed nurturing. play a pivotal role in the progress of Burhanuddin, which was the prelude The Quran is the source of all society and in serving mankind. to the architectural renaissance in knowledge to all Muslims and its study A Cycle of Economic Prosperity the community, was that of Al Jamea is a source of solace and enlightenment. The prosperity of the Dawoodi Anwar. Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin emphasizes Bohras, primarily a business This eleventh century Fatimid the memorization of the Holy Quran community, is due to the teachings of Masjid of Imam Al Hakim, located and has infused the community with His Holiness which lay emphasis on at Old Fatimi Cairo, is a UNESCO an unparalleled enthusiasm to Hifz the fact that they should not engage World Heritage site. Its restoration (memorize) the Holy Book. “There be at in over-trading and adhere to the was a colossal task which required least one member of every family who principles of fair trade. Syedna has painstaking research, planning and is a Hafiz,” Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin institutionalized the Islamic economic execution. With Syedna Mufaddal expresses his desire in every religious concept of Qardan Hasana or interest- Saifuddin’s verve and personal discourse, motivating the young free loans which has contributed largely dedication, Al Anwar was rebuilt to its children of the community towards to the entrepreneurial initiatives in the original magnificence in a short span

SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 49 SPECIAL FEATURE

who was an acclaimed International Ambassador of Peace and Goodwill. He is a true embodiment of the message of peace and inter-cultural harmony. A Scholar and an Orator Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin’s impassioned discourses are a balm for the soul and a guideline to a perfect life, which he renders in his unique style in Moharram and on other religious occasions. His interactive sermons touch not just intellectuals but every believer at all frequencies because they are rendered from the heart. He especially speaks to impressionable children in these addresses, imbibing in them basic values of truth, faith and goodness, Food is being distributed among Dawoodi Bohra community preparing and gearing them for a members in a traditional thaal. productive, well-rounded future. Every discourse, which revolves around a pertaining theme, is resplendent with Quranic injunctions, Hadith, historic references, gems of Fatimid philosophy and the recitation of the martyrdom of Imam Husain (AS), the grandson of Prophet Mohammed (PBUH). Within these discourses, His Holiness simultaneously urges his community to be loyal to their country, tolerant of different faiths and cultures, hard-working citizens and good neighbours. Today, the Dawoodi Bohras are a modern community with a pluralistic outlook while remaining true to the fundamental principles of Members of Dawoodi Bohra community planting a tree. their faith and cultural identity. Apart from supervising the host of of 27 months as per the wishes of his Empowering Women continuing educational and medical father. Today, it stands as a majestic Women are at the core of a family ventures established for the good wonder -- a monument of pride for the which is the most basic unit of a society. of humanity, His Holiness reminds Dawoodi Bohra community. This is the reason why Syedna Mufaddal his followers of basic values like This restoration has been the turning Saifuddin has empowered women by cleanliness, exhorting that one’s home point in the architectural revival of making them realize their pivotal role and surroundings should be clean and religious relics, construction of masajid in a family structure. Due to the Faiz ul hygienic. Many community-initiated and subsequent cultural reawakening Mawaid ul Burhaniyah thaali delivered cleanliness and greenery drives have in the community throughout the to every home, a majority of the women motivated other people too, to play world. in the community today are able to their part as citizens of this world, Food for the Soul devote quality time to run successful in creating an environment free of Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin small cottage industries to businesses disease and contamination, which can wished for no believer to sleep hungry of all sizes from their homes, making be a sight for sore eyes. and on his 100th birthday the initiation them financially able and confident. All these aspects of His Holiness of the one-of-a-kind project of the Traversing the Globe Dr. Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin’s multi- community kitchen, Faiz ul Mawaid ul Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin travels faceted personality and the impact Burhaniyah, was taken. extensively to countries where his he has on his community were truly Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin has community members reside and where mirrored during Ashara Mubaraka furthered his father’s dream and he directly looks into the spiritual and this year in Karachi. The ten-day today Faiz ul Mawaid ul Burhaniyah temporal affairs of his followers. May Moharram congregation saw streets ensures that all community members it be the small town of Tanga in East being cleaned, roads being made, receive healthy and wholesome food Africa, the throbbing metropolis of voluntary medical and social services throughout the world. Community Karachi or a mountainous village in being offered along with exemplary members contribute to the kitchen Yemen, he personally observes the security measures by the government. — monetarily and personally. One conditions and trials of the people An overall spirit of hospitality, which of the chief reasons of the success of and addresses the concerns of his the people of Pakistan extended to this initiative is the involvement of all followers. the guests who had poured in from community members from planning During these travels, he is greeted assorted corners of the globe, played a to stocking, food preparation and warmly by world leaders who see in vital role in the image-building of the dispatching the ‘thaalis’(tiffins). His Holiness a reflection of his father country.

50 SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017

WATER

Saving Water Together

Water is one of the many challenges that Pakistan faces today. A collective approach has been devised to find solutions to the problem and Nestlé Pakistan is one of the major companies leading the initiative.

By Khawaja Amer

he global demand for 1,400 under 5 children are dying water is directly and from diarrhea. Tproportionally related to Like many in the world, water population, urbanization and is one of the major challenges changing climate, which is going that Pakistan faces today. Pakistan to exert a pressure on the already Council of Research in Water rising demand for water. The Resources (PCRWR) claims that bulging population will lead to the country may run dry by increased consumption of water 2025 if concerned authorities by communities, agriculture and do not take immediate action. businesses. Urbanization will According to the International further strain the supply of water. Monetary Fund (IMF), Pakistan We, however, are unsure of how has the world's fourth highest rate this bulging demand for water of water use. The water intensity will be met with. water and around 2.7 billion people rate - the amount of water in cubic Water scarcity currently affects four face water scarcity equal to about a meters used per unit of GDP – is also out of every ten people in the world. month in a year. Inadequate sanitation highest in the world, suggesting that It has been estimated that the world results is about 2.4 billion people being the country's economy is more water- is facing a water deficit of 19% which vulnerable to diseases and water-borne intensive. is expected to go up to 40% by 2030. illnesses. The access to water and A collective approach is the new About 1.1 billion people lack access to sanitation represents a global threat i.e. way to do things and is evident from

52 SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 the fact that the United Nations government has funding from the has endorsed it in its Sustainable World Bank and covers 60% of Development Goals (SDGs). the cost of installing drip irrigation; Even the provincial governments Nestlé for its part is putting up the are now implementing multi- remaining 40% for its early adopter sectoral policies whether it is the dairy farmers. So far they have been public health policy (that includes able to convince farmers to put up environment, education, urban drip irrigation system on 35 acres, planning, waste management with 33 expected to be completed and urban departments) or water by the end of the year. This, (involving departments of health, according to estimates, will save up waste management, environment, to 140 million liters of water with education and agriculture). reduced use of fertilizer as well. Multilateral action is essential To make this initiative more and equally desirable to meet viable for the farmers and these objectives through a environment, Nestlé Pakistan collective approach. The capacity is collaborating with Pakistan of businesses to engage externally Agriculture and Research Council is directly linked with their efforts (PARC) to install solar pumps for to ensure water stewardship. An standards voluntarily and international drip irrigation. event was recently held at the Lahore organizations that help such businesses The Sustainable Agriculture Team University of Management Sciences to do so. WWF-Pakistan is one such at Nestlé Pakistan has developed smart (LUMS) in this regard to showcase the organization that has been championing soil moisture sensors as part of a project collective approach towards addressing water stewardship for decades now. it calls Water Sense. It is a digital the complex water situation. The event A few years ago, it joined hands technology project that enables water was a joint collaboration among with Alliance for Water Stewardship conservation by using soil moisture Nestlé Pakistan, LUMS, WWF-Pakistan, (AWS), a global membership-based sensors by avoiding crop stress (by both Sustainable Development Policy collaboration. The AWS Standard under or over irrigation) and ultimately Institute (SDPI), Agriculture Department is an international standard, which increasing yield. These sensors read the of Punjab, and Pakistan Agriculture & guides companies and organizations water level of the soil and send regular Research Council (PARC). to improve their results by taking updates to a cloud from where the At the event, Nestlé Pakistan Water concrete actions that help protect farmer receives information about which Plan (NPWP) was unveiled. It is a shared water resources and involve areas to irrigate. Lahore University blueprint for different partners to learn local communities that collaborate in of Management Sciences (LUMS) is from each other; making room for the process. helping Nestlé in the project. more partnerships, whether related to There are local and multinational Contamination of Water agriculture, technology, quality of water companies that have shown an interest Another area of great concern when or watershed management. Speaking in adopting the Standard. Just recently, it comes to water is contamination of on the occasion, Dr. Abid Qaiyyum Nestlé Pakistan’s Sheikhupura Factory water. A recent report by Swiss Federal Sulehri Executive Director of SDPI said, became the first site across Pakistan and Institute of Aquatic Science and “There was time when we thought we within Nestlé, globally, to be awarded Technology also estimated that up to would never run out of natural gas and the AWS Certification. 60 million people living in Pakistan are today it’s the same dire situation with Hammad Naqi Khan, Chief exposed to high levels of arsenic through water. Water is imperative for us both Executive Officer WWF Pakistan said, drinking water. Punjab government’s in addressing our energy and food “WWF Pakistan is proud to have played Saaf Paani Company has been in the security concerns.” an important role in facilitating Nestlé news for quite some time. Corporates Businesses as Water Stewards Sheikhupura factory achieve AWS like Coca Cola and Nestlé Pakistan also Businesses are also important Certification. This certification process have facilities that offer clean water to stakeholders, especially when it requires the alignment of all local people. Nestlé Pakistan has established comes to environment and water. stakeholders, in and outside of the 6 Clean and Safe Drinking Water Optimization of water consumption factory.” Facilities providing access to clean and by industries, in this regard, is equally Water wastage in Agriculture safe water to 60,000 people every day. important because it can lower water The world over, about 70% of water These are not the only aspects of the withdrawals from local water sources is used in agriculture. In Pakistan, water challenge that we need to act on thus increasing water availability and that percentage stands at 90% with and the list of actions and examples is improving community relations. It can 50% wastage due to poor irrigation by no means exhaustive. For example, also lead to increased productivity per methods. This means that in order to Pakistan has a water storage capacity water input, reduction in the wastewater be able to save significant water, we for just 30 days and it is continuously discharges and their pollutant load, need interventions in agriculture. These struggling to maintain adequate surface reduced thermal energy consumption can be in the form of high-efficiency water supply for the past 3 decades. We and, potentially, lower the processing irrigation methods like drip, furrow, need to work on building our storage cost. sprinklers or technological solutions capacity as a country. However, what Pakistan is a country that even after that help save water. is clear is that collective action needs 71 years of independence and despite The government of Punjab’s to be adopted in the support of an being an agro based economy, is still Agriculture Department is working enhanced water stewardship across without a comprehensive national with Nestlé Pakistan and other private various sectors. water policy. In this void, there are sector companies to encourage local companies that follow international farmers to take up drip irrigation. The The writer is a member of the staff.

SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 53 FEATURE Urban Issues

Sewer Deaths The philosophy of cleanliness is enshrined in the Indian way of life. But it does not prevent the general populace from nursing lop-sided views about a section of the population.

By Sanghmitra S Acharya

“I will not let anyone walk through for the cleanliness. Delhi’s status as State in Central Delhi. Earlier in July, four my mind with their dirty feet.” and Union Territory gives ample space such workers were trapped to death in a – M.K. Gandhi to the Chief Ministerial Office and the sewage tank in south Delhi’s Ghitorni. Lieutenant Governor’s Office to shirk Wages and Safety On 15 August 2017, in the name the responsibility of these deaths on the Is there any other occupation with of Independence Day, what did the other. Without any official data from such high mortality? Certainly not. Indians celebrate? Whose independence states, the Ministry of Social Justice Globally, most sewer workers die while and from whom? A look beyond history stated that 70 cases of deaths of persons at work in India than in any other and polity shows that those people are in sewers and septic tanks have been country. The number estimated by the not recognized who risk their lives to brought to their notice by the activists SKVS is about 22,250 every year. Most provide cleanliness, keep the spaces and press reports. The Safai Kamgar die before reaching retirement. The clean and the stench away and ensure Vikas Sangh (SKVC) sought data under average lifespan of a sewer worker is that the ‘smart’ cities do not become a the Right to Information Act in 2006 about 45 years. Their monthly “risk store of muck. They continue to work which suggested that in just 14 of 24 allowance” ranges between INR. 50- without any support gadgets and die wards of the BMC, about 25 deaths 200 across states. The permanent unsung! The sewer cleaners. Where is occurred every month. Compare this worker with 20 years of experience is their independence from the inhuman with the 5,100 soldiers who died during likely to earn about INR12,000 a month conditions which encompass them? 1990 and 2007 combating militancy in in India that is ‘shining’ and has also More than 60 sewer workers have some states. The sewer deaths continue been promising the proverbial golden died in Delhi alone during January-July as a routine, albeit unsung. days. Remunerations of these workers 2017. In the absence of any official data, On Saturday 12 August 2017, are meager and work guaranteed is nil. reliance on empirical evidence from the two brothers, Jahangir and Izaz in Workers engaged by municipal bodies, Safai Karamchari Abhiyan is inevitable. their early twenties, went inside the the second largest employer of sanitation According to Bezwada Wilson, one of clogged sewage tank on the basement workers after the railways, get INR 150 the founders and national convener, of Aggarwal Funcity Mall in Vishwas per day and those working as contractual 39 people had died across India while Nagar in Shahdara, East Delhi. They workers get between INR. 40-50 a day. cleaning sewers during May-July 2017. descended the sewage tank without any They are often employed for less than These deaths are a regular occurrence. safety gear. The toxic gases killed the 8 hours and paid accordingly anything Delhi with its peculiar administrative two brothers. Their 50-year-old father, between INR 300-1500 per month. framework, leaves these workers at Yusuf, positioned himself at the mouth This when contrasted with China, the mercy of no one identifiable. The of the manhole to pull out the muck. suggests that the latter are better in Delhi Jal Board hires them as daily wage Instead, he pulled out his dead sons. terms of earnings and safety gears as workers. Six days earlier three sanitation workers compared to their counterparts in India. The municipal bodies are responsible died inside a sewer line in Lajpat Nagar In most developed nations, workers

54 SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 are protected in bunny suits to avoid sewer and septic tanks. The cleaning the country. The current government contact with contaminated water and operations are outsourced to sanitation through its Swachch Bharat Mission sport a respiratory apparatus; Sewers firms who hire the workers for ‘work,’ (SBM), endeavours to build 12 crore are well-lit, mechanically aerated which is almost always not identified toilets in rural India at a cost of 1.96 with huge fans and therefore are not as sewer cleaning. In case of death, lakh crores by 2019. Providing clean so oxygen deficient. In Hong Kong, a they escape penalty. None have been toilets is important. But in the absence sewer worker, after adequate training, punished till date despite the provision of water availability, the question arises needs at least 15 licences and permits to under Indian Penal Code (IPC). More of a choice between dirty, unusable, enter a manhole. The entry-level salary than 90% of these workers are poor stinking toilets or open fields with fresh of a sanitation worker in New York is and Dalit with neither voice nor choice air. What will spark behavioural change US$ 30,000 per year. In the sixth year, of occupation. They often work after towards ODF villages is important to be he could earn US$ 67,141 (INR 2.18 midnight because while people are considered, especially in context of who lakh per month). In India one's licence asleep, flow in the sewers is lesser, and will clean them. to become a sewer worker is the all- their work does not disturb road-users. The Millennium Development Goal pervasive caste identity. While others do not even notice their (MDG) on sanitation has emphasized In the name of protective gears, the lives or deaths, they are ‘concerned not on halving inequalities between the worker in India wears nothing more to disturb others. rich and the poorest 20%; rural and than a loincloth or half-pants. The The apathy of the state and fellow urban; and slum-non-slum. It has been safety equipment provided to them is human beings towards the work observed in this context that while so ill-fitting that they obstruct more than conditions, incentives and remunerations technology and financing as constraints support the work that they are engaged and their living conditions is appalling. can be overcome, the ‘biggest barrier in doing. In most other nations, as Their labour for cleaning the filth in sanitation is the unwillingness of mentioned above, sewer workers are and grime and hazardous pollution political leaders to put excreta and protected in bunny suits and respiratory generated is not appreciated. On the its safe disposal on the international apparatus. Sewers are well-lit and contrary, the people label them as development agenda’ in the Human aerated. In India, only the permanent unclean and polluted. They defy the Development Report 2006. workers, a vanishing tribe, wear a vision and dream of Dr Ambedkar, Those who lend their lives for ‘safe Sewer Deaths “safety belt” which helps pull them out Chairman of Drafting Committee of disposal’ did not come within the when they faint or die inside the sewer. the Constitution and champion of the purview of the Millennium Development The most vital ‘tool’ is the khapchi — a Dalit issues who worked relentlessly for Goals (MDG). Thus, from national to bamboo stick, which is used to dislodge their upliftment throughout his life and global level initiatives, the concern for the block in a sewer. Often, a matchstick ensured constitutional provisions too. cleaner continues to remain dormant. is lit at the mouth of the sewer to find They are called names reflecting deep Now the Sustainable Development out the presence of poisonous gases. prejudices and given inhuman treatment. Goals (SDGs) strive for ‘leaving no one The other indicator is the presence of Considering them ‘untouchables’ is behind.’ Without addressing the needs of cockroaches at the mouth of the sewer. If nothing short of that. The nation is these cleaners, this will be difficult to be the matchstick continues to be lit and the indebted to them - ‘the lesser human achieved by India. Manual scavenging cockroaches are visible, they descend beings’ for keeping the cost of cleaning - the practice of cleaning human waste into the sewer, which is assumed to be to the lowest possible. Had it been for by low-caste communities is banned safe. It is noteworthy that in all the cases mechanization for the work done by by law in India. But it is rampant and of deaths, the victims did not have any these workers, the state would be paying activists say tens of thousands are safety gear on them. This is because they anything to the tune of at least 30 times involved in this demeaning work which are useless. A sincere concern to make more as reported by Stephanie Tam in opens them to prejudice and abuse. That suitable gear is needed. her work on Ahmedabad. is why even today India has more than A review meeting of the "Prohibition Cleanliness Drive 676,009 manual scavengers, ranging of Employment as Manual Scavengers As part of the Swachh Bharat from about 150000 in UP to about and Their Rehabilitation Act, 2013" (MS Campaign, many dignitaries and social 65000 in Maharashtra (SKA). Act) was held on 30 August. It was found figures from all walks of life have The issue, however, goes beyond that there is no information available wielded a broom to clean the filth on poverty, indifference, lack of awareness, about the cases lodged for engaging different occasions, which has been or reluctance to switch from traditional sanitation workers in "hazardous amply publicized by media. According work. Manual scavenging is what most cleaning." The minister who chaired the to some of those who participated in of these workers do. It is rooted in caste meeting accepted that there is lack of the cleaning operations, their act has as much as caste is rooted in the mindset accountability for violations under the provided dignity to sanitation work. of Indians. Deaths of sewer workers 2013 Act. Engaging sanitation workers But, even the dignitaries will agree that remind us of unsafe working conditions without safety equipment is barred by it requires more than the photoshoots for people keeping India’s sewer lines this Act. with the clean unused brooms, to add and tanks clean, often with their bare About six states have reported value and dignity to this work and safety hands, violating the Manual Scavenging sewer deaths, but in the context of the to the workers. Act 2013. If their selfless service to the compensation paid to the families of the India has made some progress in nation is not acknowledged and there victims which the Supreme Court had providing sanitation by building toilets is no resolve to give them their due made mandatory through a judgment to deter people from defecating in the respect and dignity as enshrined in the in 2014. Tamil Nadu has reported 144 open. But India continues to have the Constitution, India will be a lost case. deaths, Punjab 18, Karnataka 57, UP 37 longest queues for toilets in the world as The seventieth year of Independence and Kerala 12. But these figures are not evident from the reports of WND.com, cannot be celebrated without social exhaustive and need to be scrutinized. 21-Nov, 2015 and Huffington Post, 20- inclusion. The government, however, has stated Nov, 2015. Eradicating open defecation that the safety standards are alarmingly has been the core objective of all the The writer is a Director of the Indian low across the country for cleaning of cleanliness programmes initiated in Institute of Dalit Studies, New Delhi.

SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 55 FEATURE VIOLENCE

Acid Crimes against Women Bangladesh is a country where women are traumatized by acid attacks but it appears the government is not doing enough to bring the attackers to book or to sincerely rehabilitate the victims.

By Syeda Areeba Rasheed

hile violence against women widespread in Bangladesh than in any punishment can never be equal to is common throughout Asia, other country. what the victim suffers. The survivors Wacid attacks on women, Almost every week in Bangladesh, not only undergo physical injuries but mainly in Bangladesh, stand out as one the life of a girl turns upside down are also severely disfigured, which has of its most barbaric and despicable when she is doused with acid and a long-term impact on their lives. manifestations. An acid attack is a form disfigured. The intentions are always The sulphuric or nitric acid, of cruel assault by the perpetrator. It is either rejection of marriage proposals which is cheap and easily available, an act of throwing acid or any corrosive or sexual advances, revenge, land causes the skin to melt, injuring and substance on the body of another disputes or damaging the image and blinding the victim in one or both eyes. person. Although many countries have reputation of the perpetrator. Whatever Sometimes it also exposes the bones reported acid attacks, the crime is more the reason for the inhuman act, the and, in certain cases, both the ears and

56 SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 nose are completely lost. The majority the difference between poverty and 14 men were sentenced to prison. of these victims are usually women security. Many Bangladeshi non-government and children. Permanently disfigured Bangladesh is a male-dominated organisations (NGOs) alleged that acid and psychologically scarred, survivors society where violence against women attacks have increased at an alarming are often shunned from their local is a common occurrence that is widely rate. The Bangladeshi Acid Survivors’ communities, making it impossible for accepted as a part of everyday life. Foundation (ASF), established in 1999 them to find work or get married. The violence cuts across cultural with an aim to reduce and eventually Acid violence is amongst the and religious barriers and impedes eliminate acid attacks in Bangladesh grossest of human rights violations. It is women’s rights. Many Bangladeshi and ensure that acid survivors are nastiest nasty and disgusting crime not men still see women as some kind of a able to live with dignity, noted that just because of the extreme pain they property and not as equal individuals. acid violence is a relatively recent cause to the victims, but also owing to Bangladeshi women are denied basic phenomenon, with the first acid the lifetime stigmatisation that follows. rights such as economic well being, violence case having been documented The physical and psychological social security, political participation, in 1967. Just recently, five women were consequences of acid attacks are personal fulfilment and appreciation attacked while thirty women have been extensive. Victims suffer from a severe of self-worth. Bangladesh is ranked attacked since January. Approximately 3,240 incidents have occurred, increasing in 2002, when 494 women were attacked by acid. From 1999 to September 2015, Bangladesh The women are usually attacked when they voice or exercise their power has faced almost 3,283 acid incidents with of decision-making. The result is in the around 3,640 survivors. However, the form of destroying one of her most important assets, her beauty. Although victims are still not getting proper justice for acid attacks have decreased by 15 percent to 20 percent in Bangladesh several reasons. after the country adopted specific laws to address acid violence, the number of acid attacks still remains alarmingly high. From 1999 to September 2015, loss of confidence and are often the second worst country in the world Bangladesh has faced almost 3,283 unable to work or study during the in terms of domestic violence against acid incidents with around 3,640 long recovery period or beyond, for women, with 47 percent of the women survivors. However, the victims are still fear of attracting attention due to their assaulted by their male partners. This not getting proper justice for several disfigurement. It becomes very much clearly shows that the Bangladeshi reasons. unlikely that they would ever get government is not doing enough to Improvement in medical facilities married, considerably affecting their control widespread gender violence. provided to the victims would send lives and driving them into isolation. This is happening in a country ruled a positive signal to the victims and Some survivors face huge losses by a woman. In the case of women Bangladeshi women in general. Efforts because of the time and money spent attacked with acid, the lack of medical should be made for the protection of on their treatment and lengthy court help given to them and the impunity the victims so that the attackers could proceedings. enjoyed by most attackers reflects the be prosecuted without the women The increasing rate of acid violence lack of interest of authorities in solving who have been already been attacked has turned into a potent crime culture in this problem. taking the risk of being re-victimised. many parts of the world. In Bangladesh, Acid violence in Bangladesh is a Finally, the root cause of the attacks, such an attack takes place after every form of gender-based violence. Many which is the cultural pattern and values two days. The actual number of acid victims undergo complete mental that discriminate against women. This attacks in Bangladesh is very difficult breakdown and face an identity crisis must be wiped out in keeping with to document as many of the cases go because of their lost and distorted the commitment the Government of unreported for fear of reprisals by the appearance. Other psychological Bangladesh made in acceding to the attackers and the conviction rate for effects include fear, anxiety, fatigue, Convention on the Elimination of acid crime is very low in Bangladesh. post traumatic stress disorder and all Forms of Discrimination Against Despite the frequency of acid attacks sleeping and eating disturbances. Such Women (CEDAW). and the high traumatic acuity of attacks are a barbaric response to the From the process of buying acid each, acid violence is a little-known progress of women’s economic and to convicting the perpetrators, the phenomenon. What little is known social position in Bangladesh. government needs to deal with the has not resulted in any substantial Acid throwing was made a capital whole pattern very carefully and solutions nor has prevalence of the offence in 1983 and a sentence of seven sincerely. Although acid violence attacks decreased. to twelve years in prison is mandated. should lead to punishment of the While victims run into numerous In 2002, Bangladesh enacted two laws, perpetrators, a more important area is ups and downs in their lives, very few of one that increases criminal penalties to ensure restorative justice of the acid the perpetrators are prosecuted, which and improves criminal procedures and victims. Some of the NGOs are working is an insult to the victims, reflecting another that attempts to decrease the well to reintegrate the survivors, but the underlying cause of the numerous availability of acid. According to the it seems like their resources are not acid attacks. Women especially suffer Bangladesh National Women Lawyers enough to ensure certain levels of the stigma attached to deformity and Association, out of the 145 reported necessities that the victims need. this could be crippling in a place incidents reported to it in 1998, 87 where finding a husband could mean cases were filed for court action and The writer is the member of the staff.

SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 57 FEATURE DEVELOPMENT

Hambantota Port Catalyst Port

China is investing heavily in South Asia, particulary in Sri Lanka and Pakistan, with the aim to create a wider area of influence so that it can call the shots with more authority in the times to come.

By Muhammad Omar Iftikhar

he recently signed agreement pursuit of its own interests. container terminal of Sri Lanka, as many between China and Sri Lanka Although seaports are an icon of ships will now dock at Hambantota. Tgrants the former nearly 70% economic trade and activity, the sight at Even though China is betting on of ownership in Sri Lanka’s second the Hambantota port is the opposite. Sri its financial resources in Sri Lanka in largest Hambantota Port. Under the Lanka received Chinese assistance in an attempt to strike a long-term deal agreement, China Merchants Ports building the port. However, Colombo and boost its relations with Sri Lanka, Holding Company Limited (CMPort) is now facing difficulties in repaying the purpose for these investments is to will enjoy a majority of the shares of China. The agreement granting China acquire an economic footprint in this this partnership. However, Sri Lanka majority shares in the Hambantota Port region. A large number of oil shipments Ports Authority (SLPA) will hold the is a way through which Sri Lanka will from the Middle East pass through the remaining shares. Although China pay much of its debt to China. It is a sea route on which Sri Lanka is situated. is investing billions of dollars in Sri tough decision but it had to be made. China, therefore, eyes its energy security Lanka’s infrastructural development Reports suggest that the China-Sri Lanka needs and has been interested to invest with the aim of turning the country ito deal will restore economic activity at the in Sri Lanka. By occupying parts of the another Singapore in the next fifteen Hambantota Port. This will also ease the Strait of Malacca near Sri Lanka, China years, many say China is, in fact, buying pressure of economic and trade activity will eventually counter the hegemony the island nation and investing in it in at Colombo Port, which is a major of the United States’ ship routes in this

58 SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 region. ten-year tenure ended in January 2015. Pakistan, will have a stronger regional According to Nilanthi Samaranayake, Among its other projects in the pipeline, presence in South Asia following the Research Scientist at the Center for Naval China wants to construct a city off the completion of its many infrastructural Analyses (CNA), “In the event of war coast of Colombo. Plans are to develop projects in Sri Lanka. with the United States — over Taiwan, a city with hotels, resorts, beaches India may not be too comfortable for example — Chinese policy planners and shopping malls to be operational with China forging its ties with both have long feared a retaliatory US naval by 2040. Two-thirds of the marketable Pakistan and Sri Lanka and having blockade of the Strait of Malacca to cut land on lease for 99 years in return a financial presence in these two off vital oil supplies. In a 2003 speech, for its investment will be given to countries. New Delhi may sabotage President Hu Jintao even acknowledged China Harbour Engineering Company China-Pakistan or China-Sri Lanka China’s vulnerability in the Strait. Some (CHEC), which is constructing this city. ties by hindering these projects or American security analysts have argued According to Thulci Aluwiharem, Head demanding to become a party to it. that the People’s Republic of China (PRC) of Strategy and Business Development Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been actively constructing a ’string at CHEC, "What this project will bring met his Sri Lankan counterpart Ranil of pearls in the Indian Ocean Region to Sri Lanka is foreign direct investments Wickremesinghe in New Delhi in May (IOR) to secure the safe passage of oil estimated at $15bn. Last year foreign 2017 where they shared details and by Chinese ships, as well as to position direct investment in the country was a insights on how to strengthen their China as a countervailing presence to US naval hegemony in the Sea Lines of Communications (SLOCs).” Time will tell how Washington will react to this plan, which Beijing is following with diligence. China is already creating ripples of controversy and stirring a ruckus by occupying the South China Sea. Tensions between the US and China might escalate when Beijing will have a strong position in Sri Lanka in the years to come. Furthermore, Beijing will try to include Sri Lanka in its One Belt, One Road initiative and eventually make it a major factor in its diplomatic and trade narrative. Under this project, China will build road, rail and sea links with regional countries to boost trade ties. However, using Hambantota Port will become a challenge for China since the port is situated in an isolated area. Sri Lankan and Chinese officials at the signing ceremony of If China wants to have complete access the Hambantota Port Concession Agreement. to the port and turn it into a lucrative venture, it needs to develop the supporting infrastructure, which will mere $300m. So this would be a catalyst future ties. An economic partnership spell additional costs. for Sri Lanka.” between India and Sri Lanka is in the China is planning to purchase The construction of this city has also pipeline with India is enthusiastically nearly 15,000 acres of land to create an placed the government in a delicate envisioning to develop a qualitative economic zone near the Hambantota position in front of the fishermen and transformation in its bilateral ties. Port, which will include offices, factories the local community residing on this China would need to curtail New and shipping and cargo terminals. coastal belt of Colombo. Furthermore, Delhi’s ambitions and keep its attention However, the stakeholders and many are concerned about the directed at what it wants to accomplish investors will need to relocate villagers environmental costs Sri Lanka would in Sri Lanka. Otherwise, a Sri Lanka- residing near the Hambantota Port. give when Chinese workers construct India tussle could emerge, jeopardizing These villagers will not give up their an urban jungle. Much of Sri Lanka’s China’s plans and affecting the balance land without a fight. A protest was financial crises have arisen from the of peace in the region. also held in this regard when villagers country’s inability to increase its With China, investing rapidly in raised their voice against the Sri Lankan exports. The debt servicing payments, Sri Lanka, Colombo would need to government’s plans to evacuate the however, have been rising. The viable think over its options. It would need area for development needs. China has option for Sri Lanka was to raise funds to deliberate over how much Chinese already constructed many kilometres of through debts and investments. China, influence, investment, and power is the road network in Sri Lanka, thereby however, was ready to make its move needed in Sri Lanka while ensuring decreasing travel time between cities. by investing in Sri Lanka on various that China’s presence does not dilute This will boost tourism; however, Sri long-term projects. Moreover, China Sri Lanka’s national interests. Perhaps Lanka would use this revenue to repay is giving loans to Sri Lanka at a high time will tell if Sri Lanka takes a stand its debt to China. interest, putting Sri Lanka on the back and directs China’s role on its land or A look at China-Sri Lanka ties foot and under China’s dominance allows China to take decisions as and shows much of Chinese investments for years. In addition, China, which is when needed. came forth during the regime of former already pursuing the China-Pakistan President Mahinda Rajapaksa, whose Economic Corridor (CPEC) project with The writer is a free-lance journalist.

SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 59 BOOK LAUNCH

Recognizing Invisible People

The author signing his book.

outhAsia Forum, in collaboration with the One Lost Push initiative Sof the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Pakistan British Foundation, recently hosted the Senate Chairman Mian Raza Rabbani speaking at the launching of his book ‘Invisible launching of ‘Invisible People’ in London People’ hosted by SouthAsia Forum, in London. Picture shows (seated l. to r.) at a simple ceremony. This is a book Dr. Hannah Charlotte Kershaw, Wajid Shamsul Hasan, Syed Jawaid Iqbal and Rosie Dastgir. which has been written by Mian Raza Rabbani, Chairman, Senate of Pakistan. The panel of speakers besides the author momentous occasion that ‘Invisible included Wajid Shamsul Hasan, former People’ was being launched in London Pakistan High Commissioner to the UK, as it gave voice to the common people research scholar Dr. Hannah Charlotte of Pakistan and reflected their travails Kershaw, prominent British author of in a language that could be easily Pakistani descent, Ms. Rosie Dastgir and understood. Syed Jawaid Iqbal, Chairman, SouthAsia Dr. Hannah Charlotte Kershaw said Forum. that here was someone at last who wrote Speaking on the occasion, Mian so lucidly about the under-privileged Raza Rabbani said, “The privileged class in Pakistan and highlighted the class doesn’t care about the issues and stories of their daily lives in such a problems of the downtrodden, they coherent manner. don’t matter. I wrote Invisible People to Wajid Shamsul Hasan said he was so highlight the class that’s invisible and happy that Senator Rabbani had chosen needs to be brought to the front. These Katie Gilbert speaking at to represent a class in his book that is are the real people; they should be the the book launching. generally invisible and is used and biggest stakeholders of Pakistan. They abused constantly by the upper classes. should be part of national decision- The book is unique in a sense that making.” eradicating polio and urged a continued Raza Rabbani has picked characters of While addressing the launch of momentum to ensure the disease is his stories from everyday life, common ‘Invisible People’, Mian Raza Rabbani wiped out forever. men, beggars, shopkeepers, fruit sellers, also highlighted the menace of polio Pakistan is one of the two remaining litigants, factory workers, villagers, local which still remains endemic despite countries in the world where polio is politicians, housemaids, clerks and over 100 rounds of vaccination having still categorized as an endemic viral prisoners - the truly ‘invisible people’. been carried out over the past decade in infection, the other being Afghanistan. The locale of his stories has also been Pakistan. He termed polio immunisation Earlier, while opening the discussion, taken from the oft-visited and much- as a positive example of how Pakistan Syed Jawaid Iqbal, who also moderated trodden paths and places, chowks and can improve the lives of the most the event, said, “One would expect corridors, offices and markets, where marginalised. Senator Rabbani noted Raza to be writing about Pakistan from these ‘invisible people’ live and try to the great progress Pakistan has made to a political perspective, about how the make ends meet. ensure that every child, regardless of the country’s parliament works and how he The 130-page Sang-e-Meel geography or circumstance, has access steers the Senate through all the storms publication is therefore a must read for to polio vaccine. He expressed pride that lash it from time to time.” all those who believe poor people are that Pakistan is now closer than ever to Ms. Rosie Dastgir said it was a the real owners of Pakistan.

60 SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 BOOK REVIEW Management Lessons he world's renowned business planning and scheduling, etc. The book leaders are avid readers for they provides more detailed information on Tbelieve that reading is the only subjects of particular interest for the Book Title: Emerging Dynamics way to keep pace with the emerging convenience of top level management changes in the corporate world that has to look after a number of of Management and learn valuable tips to develop departments. professional skills, but very few of them Particular emphasis has been given Author: Sirajuddin Aziz have tried to reduce their experiences to subjects like the manager’s tool box, Publisher: Paramount Books into writing. There is no substitute for human resource management (HRM) real world experience and there is and personal development, which are Pages: 494 always a dire need for books, which considered to be the most important could be prescribed to all the aspiring skills for aspiring CEOs. ISBN: 978-969-637-370-4 entrants to the corporate world. These Since today’s world has become are the tried and tested options to a global village and is now more improve their managerial skills and interconnected, a new breed of and decision-making based on a make their presence felt in a world CEOs is confronted with unforeseen number of case studies, they can also dominated by cut-throat competition. issues and challenges. This book derive benefit from this book to equip The recently launched book gives new business leaders the today’s managers with more effective ‘Emerging Dynamics of Management’ required confidence to keep pace tools of management. by Sirajuddin Aziz, a thorough with the rapidly-changing dynamics In the corporate world, there are professional and a seasoned banker of management. Textbooks prescribed a number of doyens and champions is, therefore, a must-read for today’s in business schools normally provide with an envious track record, but managers, irrespective of their area of hypothetical solutions to problems hardly any of them have shared their specialty. faced by managers, but this book experiences, management insights Spread over 494 pages, the book provides solutions tested and proven and career lessons in writing for the is a compilation of articles written through personal experience. Though benefit of future CEOs. Sirajuddin Aziz by the author in various newspapers the National Institute of Public deserves a solid commendation for and covers subjects ranging from Administrators (NIPA) and the Pakistan compiling his articles in the form of communication, planning, strategy, Institute of Management (PIM) run a book, especially for mid and senior- leadership, HR management, weeklong courses on problem-solving level managers aspiring to hit the top. boardroom etiquette to a manager’s His book is the first of its kind by a toolkit and the rest. Pakistani author and can be described Though a number of ‘teach yourself’ as a treasure trove for both aspiring books on these subjects are available and current chiefs. apart from textbooks prescribed by Sirajuddin Aziz is a seasoned the business management schools, the banker with an excellent understanding book under review gives the readers and grasp over the subject. He has a clear understanding of different that rare gift of being an effective problems generally faced by managers communicator as well. His articles and highlights various cut and dried have introduced new dimensions to formulas to solve such issues. Based the subject of management science. on personal experiences and written There is a need to make his thoughts in a simple language, most of the easily accessible to more and more articles in the book provide solutions people. It’s time for him to move on to to management problems with social media as well. CEOs can now examples and illustrations, enabling take their storytelling content directly the reader to take enough guidance available to stakeholders without to hone his management skills. negotiating with the traditional media, The best part of the book is the through content marketing and social fact that up and coming managers media. At a time when new avenues who read it will not have to consult are coming up for managers and any other book to keep them abreast business leaders, his work requires with the emerging dynamics of more exposure. various management disciplines like communication, HR, administration, - K.A.

SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017 61 Southasia 15 Years Ago SLUG

Southasia, 2002

62 SOUTHASIA • NOVEMBER 2017