SUMMARY of the Article “The disappeared” by Arif Hasan, Dawn [Published on December 30th, 2023]
Arif Hasan highlights the prevalent issue of avoidable deaths in Pakistan due to accidents, emphasizing the negligence leading to collapses, fires, and accidents in various settings. The author also points out the dangers of traveling in the country, where incidents like plane delays, train derailments, and unsafe road travel pose significant risks. He notes the indifference of political parties to address these issues, attributing it to the detachment of the elite political class from problems affecting the common people. The article shifts its focus to a more severe and recurring crime, the forced disappearance of individuals, predominantly from Balochistan, allegedly orchestrated by state agencies. Hasan stresses the prolonged agony faced by the families of the disappeared, with some cases extending over 20 years. The piece highlights the historical struggles of the Baloch people, evolving from armed resistance led by sardars to the current urban and educated generation demanding change and representation. Hasan warns of potential unrest akin to the East Pakistan situation if the state fails to acknowledge and » Read More…