In Focus

Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Sherry Rehman Thursday reiterated the firm resolve of the elected government to root out the menace of terrorism, saying it was a major challenge for the country. Present government is democratic, progressive and moderate and has always taken its allies on board on all issues and it would seek their views as well as of the people, she said when asked on the plight of citizens and the situation in Swat. 
Talking to journalists after attending a function organised here by Women Action Forum (WAF) in connection with Pakistan Women’s Day, Sherry Rehman said “we do not believe in one sided politics and whatever is decided on important issues would be in accordance with our constitution and manifesto. 
She said the situation in tribal region was unfortunate where girls schools have been closed forcibly, incidents of kidnapping and violence are common, adding that these incidents are major concern for the government which need to be stopped. 
The Minister dispelled the impression that Pakistan was probing Mumbai blasts under some international pressure, saying this is an elected government which is answerable to its own people and is also responsible to ensure their protection. 
“So it is not true and we will continue to act according to own core interest,” she added. She said the government was keen to explore all options to ensure peace, restore law and order and restrict collateral damage in the region. 
Earlier, addressing the function, she said to counter menace of terrorism the government was following a comprehensive strategy, adding that the elected government would effectively meet the challenges with the support of all democratic forces. 
Sherry Rehman said Pakistan itself is a victim of terrorism nd its Chairperson Shaheed Benazir Bhutto also became its victim. She said Swat is Pakistan’s territory and the local citizens, the media and civil society must work with the elected government to dismantle the militant structure and establish peace in the region. 
Ms. Rehman said there is a complete unanimity among all political forces, the parliament and the armed forces on the issue of national security. “We privilege dialogue over force, but when the writ of the state is challenged the government has to act. We cannot leave our people at the mercy of terrorists and at the same time, it is important to pursue a strategy that incorporates political and social measures to build a architecture of sustainable peace in Swat as well as in the tribal areas,” she said. 
The Minister invited the cooperation of the civil society for creation of opportunities for social and economic empowerment for the population of terrorism affected areas and added this is important for long term progress and peace. 
The government is already working on a comprehensive social and economic plan for the region and at the same time, we are keen to work with civil society to support our efforts as there is need for sustained engagement and cooperation to mainstream the marginalised population of the areas, she maintained. 
Renowned TV Anchor, Talat Hussain and Columnist, Dr. Rubina mentioned the plight of the people in Swat and tribal areas and said the situation emerging from Swat and FATA areas speaks of terrorized people who feel helpless in the face of continuous violence. 
They said women and children have been barred from participating in public life while education has been banned for women and girls as a large number of schools have been burnt. They also suggested some measures to control the situation and asked the government to protect innocent people from such brutalities.