IN what is yet another reminder of the intolerance that infects Pakistani society, the offices of a media group were recently attacked in several cities and towns in the interior of Sindh.

Equipment was vandalised while staff members were attacked; copies of newspapers were also burnt. As per reports, hawkers have also been threatened and warned not to distribute certain newspapers. The attacks – allegedly carried out by some Sindhi nationalists – are said to be in reaction to the airing of a TV programme in which the idea of a `Karachi province` was discussed.

Media organisations and journalists` groups have rightly termed these acts of violence as attacks on media freedom as well as freedom of expression. In a democratic society, people have the right to criticise and to disagree. However, resorting to physical attacks and thuggish behaviour to make a point is unacceptable.

The media has for long been targeted by both the state — authoritarian as well as democratic dispensations – and religious and ethnically motivated elements in Pakistan. During the recent violence in Karachi, belligerent supporters of some political groups put pressure on media outlets to toe a certain line where coverage of the events was concerned.

If such behaviour continues unchecked it will embolden other non-state actors to `fix` whoever disagrees with their line of thinking. Most people appear to oppose the idea of a `Karachi province`. However, to slam the door shut on all debate on the issue is an undemocratic reaction.

Ideas must be countered with ideas; logic and reason must be the tools of discourse, not boorish attacks and intimidation. When debate and discussion are disallowed, it does not bode well for any society. Perhaps media and journalists` groups need to get together and chalk out a collective strategy to deal with the aggressive attitudes of various militant and political groups.
Source: Dawn
Date:7/30/2011