Time for Musharraf to Quit

President Musharraf will go down in history as one of those third world leaders who by playing as the second fiddle to West exposed Pakistan to religious militancy.

Dhokha and Being a Muslim in India

Mukesh Bhatt’s Muzammil Ibrahim starred ‘Dhokha’ or ‘Betrayal’ is the Bollywood’s latest offering that raises several questions about Muslims and their identity in India.

Banana Republic

Khaliq wanted to buy bananas so he inquired the price per dozen. “120 rupees sir”, we were told. I thought I miss heard so I asked again. “120 rupees per dozen sir, 10 rupees each.”

Democracy is the Best Revenge?

2007 – 2008 will certainly be remembered as one of the most historically significant and turbulent for Pakistan with unprecedented public protests and mass revenges.

Who Sold the Centrifuges?

Dr. Qadeer’s inflammatory outburst against President Pervez Musharraf would, instead of personally absolving him, aid in painting Pakistan in more lurid colors by her detractors.

Muslim Ghettoisation

The perception among Muslims is that they are unwelcome in Britain is undermining efforts to help them integrate into wider society.

Anti-Americanism in Pakistan and the Taliban Menace

The Taliban are waging an armed struggle to remake society. They will keep fighting this war even if America were to miraculously evaporate into space.

Muslims in America

I am all for Muslim identity but frankly what I don’t get is the overbearing role dogma plays in every action of the Muslim community in America.

Music: Muslim Madonna

Performing seated alongside notable ghazal maestros of the subcontinent was the eight years old Deepika Thathaal known by her stage name Deeyah.

Forgotten President & Shape of Things to Come?

A new kind of voting belt is being created where people are more aware of the larger issues, of national causes and increasingly form opinions under the spell of Urdu media?

The Chips are Down

Mr. Zardari once again asked the president either to resign voluntarily or be prepared for his unceremonious and rather dishonorable ouster by the parliament via an impeachment.

Attack in Mohmand

The recent attack on Frontier Corps (FC) post in Mohmand Agency is the first major US step in arm twisting the hopeless new Pakistani democratic set up.

Paper Trail

To produce five sheets of 8 x 11 inch paper we use the equivalent energy of an 80 watt bulb operating for an hour; but at a cost far greater than that of electricity.

Pakistan (private) Ltd.

‘Why could you not have been brave enough, why do you not have some courage, why did you not ever go to jail, why did you never kill someone, why did you not ever embezzle money – ’

The Lucifer Effect

The only things that can truly slow the decay of our society, is to make sure the rule of law is implemented ‘equally and across the board’ to everyone.

Delayed Justice

Centre’s decision to award a compensation package totaling Rs 330 crores to the victims of the 2002 Gujarat riots can at best be described as a pre-election effort at applying a healing touch.

Myths Surrounding the Lawyer’s Movement

Election data made public is quite opposite to the generally promoted perception that February 18 saw an overwhelming mandate to restore the judiciary and remove Musharraf

India-US Nuclear Deal

If the government thrusts the deal down the throats of the Indian nation the Left may pull out of the alliance and force the country to face general elections.

Zardari and the Politics of Defiance

“We do not want bread, we do not want electricity, but we want him (Musharraf) out” ... Can Zardari risk being complacent with the president?

Fatima Bhutto Fighting for Justice

The man Fatima Bhutto holds responsible for her father’s death is not only out of prison after 11 years without conviction, but is suddenly the most powerful man in the country.

Whither Enlightened Moderation

The latest patch up between the NWFP provincial government and Taliban of Swat and South Waziristan buries the much touted President Musharraf’s theme of enlightened moderation

National Reconciliation Order

The concept of Truth and Reconciliation of Nelson Mandela cannot be offered as a parallel of pardoning the outlaws.

Mohajirs Are People Too

It was quite obvious that unlike Punjabis and Pushtoons, mohajirs have figured out that if there is chaos in the airport it is not because of Allah’s will.

30 Days in Afghanistan - Dinner Conversations

I'm in Kabul, Afghanistan. Actually, I'm in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan - and across and beside me, people are beginning to get drunk. Muslims are getting drunk.

May 12: One Year Passed, No Lessons Learned

On May 12, the entire nation would be mourning the death of forty-four innocent civilians on what turned out to be one of the darkest days in the history of Karachi.

What Does Negative Campaigning Really Mean?

It doesn't measure tenacity or taking the punch. It proves Machivalean shrewdness. It proves un-Bono like altruism. It means power hunger.

People of Gilgit Baltistan Waiting to be Heard

A week after sending this letter to the Supreme Court of Pakistan, emergency was imposed in Pakistan, constitution was suspended and the Chief Justice was deposed.

Children of the Streets

His frail hands make a slight mistake and draw the wrath of the Ustad who lands a kick in his side. The boy gives out a painful scream but quickly turns back to work.

Mind the Gap, The Generation Gap That Is

Between 9/11, Afghanistan, Bush and Iraq, a new generation is forming which will define America for the next thirty years at the least. I call it the angry generation.

Gen. Petraeus & Crocker's Washington Show is a Damp Squib

If an act of mercy is twice blessed, then an act of illegal invasion and brutal occupation has since proved to be doubly cursed for the invaders as well.

Benazir’s Legacy

How could Pakistan’s all-powerful president and chief of the army staff be dislodged -- other than through the political process?

A Walk down Memory Lane

Forgive me if I am not taken in by the high sounding statements issued by the winners (and losers) of Election 2008, I simply see 'more of the same' for the future.

Simply Outrageous!

In their recent visits, the US officials kept looking for those who could listen to them and nod in the affirmative. They found none.

Surviving Musharraf's Exit?

Throughout the election campaign and since the elections, no political party or politician has come up with any original thought or plan for the problems that confront Pakistan

New US Strategy Needed in Afghanistan and Pakistan

The main thrust of USA's policy was to construct roads and schools and clinics. These were important but no substantial stakeholders or major employment opportunities were created...

The Deoband Declaration on Terrorism: Why Now?

On February 25, 2008 an “All India Terrorism Conference” was attended by over 10,000 Islamic clerics, scholars, muftis and teachers.

Dr. Ayesha Siddiqa Agha on Pakistan Military

Stay out of politics, it is good for you, good for us, Dr. Ayesha Siddiqa Agha advises Pakistan Military.

An Unnecessary Interview with History

Tonight we have an unnecessary interview with ex- Chief Executive, ex- Chief of Army staff and soon to be the ex- President of Pakistan, General Pervez Musharaff.

Pervez Musharraf and India Pakistan Rapproachment

Eight years of the Musharraf era has seen a sea change in the Indo-Pak bilateral relationship. Musharraf, in my opinion, can take a large measure of credit for this change.

Warday

A continuation of the Graphic novel WARDAY, but from the perspective of ex-patriot Pakistani population stranded after a 36 hour nuclear holocaust.

Manufacturing a Fig Leaf of Democracy in Pakistan

According to an IRI poll in September 2006, Musharraf had a 63 percent approval rating. But last October 11, IRI released a poll showing him at 21 percent.

Its Not About Gender or Race Anymore

America has certainly (and finally) come a long way to witness and participate in an election which will choose between a black man and a woman to run for President.

American Muslims and Presidential Elections 2008

Disagreeing with American foreign policies doesn't really mean that you are against 'us'. That stupid train has thankfully left the station and hopefully won’t return in Nov. 2008.

Talking to Jamil Dehlavi about Infinite Justice and More

Jamil Dehlavi's film “Infinite Justice” recently opened in Britain. The Indo-Pakistani-French film maker was born in Calcutta to an Indian father and French mother.

I Thought I Heard You Laughing

Unlike most people I know, I don't believe in love at first sight. But the world being as mad as it is, somehow manages to make you.

Musharraf’s Days are Numbered

From all political portents, it seems it’s time for Musharraf to go. If he doesn’t leave voluntarily, he’ll be helped out by force – by the army of course.

Afghanistan - A Strategic Analysis

Afghanistan remains haunted and plagued by its violent history and its neighbours continue to enjoy the fruits of war and crisis in Afghanistan.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and New American Dreams

Whether it is the Iowa win for Obama or the New Hampshire one for Clinton, their vision for America’s future is becoming far more important than race and gender.

Surplus Majors and Jerk Chicken

Yesterday, when I went to collect my monthly dole from my local council, the officer in charge was apologetic, ‘Sorry Mr Nazir this is all we have for you at the moment,’ she said.

US Conspiracy to Destablize Pakistan?

First it was Ms Bhutto who was conspiring along with the US to destabilise and denuclearise Pakistan. And the CIA eliminated her. Israeli agency, Mossad, was also involved...

Charlie Wilson's War Stretches the Imagination

How does a US Congressman learn about helping the Afghan resistance to the Soviet Empire in 1980? By listening to Dan Rather on TV while soaking in a Jacuzzi full of young women.

Eight years of Four M's: Musharraf, MQM, Muslim League and Mullah

After eight years of these M’s Pakistan has transformed into a hell filled with price hike, ethnic tensions ... scarcity of basic necessities and above all reactionary suicide bombers.

Psychology of Men's Honour and Women's Sexuality

When Eastern women become financially and emotionally independent their husbands start losing control and become abusive and violent

Saatchi, Musharraf and Britney Spears

‘Is there any chance of your catching Osama Bin Laden? That will definitely put you right back at the top of the charts...’

Aqsa Pervez: The Casualty of Patriarchy

Why are other Aqsas being slapped, punched, kicked, abused, followed, spied on, coerced, threatened, blackmailed, kicked out and married away? Why?

Feminism Under Veil

By observing the rule of ‘Hijab’, Muslim women make a statement about their identity and their equality as human beings.

Death of Aqsa Pervez: A reflection on Canadian Muslim-Pakistanis

As parents, we need to understand and acknowledge that our children deserve even more understanding and support because they are caught between two distinct worlds.

To Boycott or not to Boycott !

Whether its Imran Khan or Nawaz Sharif or Benazir or someone else ... whoever promises to reinstate judiciary should be voted for to stop Pro Musharraf getting 2/3rd majority.

Home, a state of mind?

Home is not necessarily a four-walled structure that has traces of one’s childhood days and it certainly does not represent the country or city one lives.

Holier Than Thou

As if she possessed the sole ownership to what Allah meant in the Koran she pounced on me in every sense of the word. Well He’s my God too lady was my response.

The Good Monster: Musharraf's Cultural Legacy

A leader’s true legacy tends to be more accurately deciphered when studied through the effects his ideas and policies have had on the cultural mindset of the people.

A Luxurious Cesspool

Something that sets us apart from the common echelon of society__ that quest is the epitome of human existence. Quest that is initiated by objects classified as “luxury goods.”

Comments on Ongoing Debate about ISI in the Afghan War

The Afghan War started a grand party for Pakistan's ruling elite and even Pakistan. Afghan refugees were cleverly and criminally used to solicit US and Saudi aid. All glorified as Jihad.

Pakistan’s Emergency and the International Media

The international media’s principled stand against the imposition of emergency must be taken with a pinch of salt.

The Conspiracy Theory

Even today I come across many adults who essentially think of the world in such simplistic terms: interconnected; controlled and run by a single source of intelligence.

6th December 1992

A turning point in Hindu Muslim relations in the post independence Indian history. It was a moment when all truths about religious coexistence suddenly proved false.

Enlightened Mediocrity

‘He (Musharraf) is better off than the Queen you know,’ I continued, ‘considering that even the poor lady is answerable at times...’

Media: The more things change...

Where only one Najam Sethi was picked up under the Sharif regime, over the past eight years, dozens have been picked up and tortured by Pakistan’s secret agencies.

Vi Veri Universum Vivus Vici

Feigning infant-like naivety, we assume that like a chess board, war remains restricted to an 8x8 playing field and will never reach our doors.

An Insight Into Pakistan Army and Musharraf

A combination of threat perception and indispensability strengthened his quest for legitimacy till it consumed his reformist self.

The Plan To Topple Pakistan Military

Its not about Musharraf anymore. This is about clipping the wings of a strong Pakistani military, denying space for China in Pakistan, squashing the ISI, stirring ethnic unrest...

Nandigram Turmoil, Boiling the Nation

Left Front used a private army to recapture Nandigram in November 2007. 600 people were killed. The Muslim friendly, Kisan Friendly and Labourers friendly mask of Left is torn.

Pakistan: Media Under Siege

Police have attacked and arrested journalists demonstrating all over the country. Over a hundred journalists offered themselves for mass arrest in Karachi on Nov 20.

Pakistani Media Crippled

The Musharraf government wants to financially cripple this most popular of the media community to set an example - just like the judiciary.

Musharraf and The Media

With the imposition of martial law, all TV channels suddenly disappeared. BBC and CNN and Fox all were gone.

Pakistani Judges - Read This Lawyer’s Oath

One fails to understand how the growing need to associate with Mr. Jinnah leaves Musharraf little association with the ideals that the man stood for.

Pakistan at Sixty

Insightful and relevant article written in October by political activist Tariq Ali on the occasion of 60th anniversary of Pakistan.

Medals of Freedom for Justice Chaudary

He (Justice Chaudhry) sat on four pivotal Supreme Court benches between 2000-2005 that validated the military takeover by General Musharraf, his referendum, his LFO and the 17th amendment

Artifice of Scholarship : CSPI on FrontPage

Where will Mr. Warner hide when faced with the ignobility of logic deserting his beloved Christianity? What will he do when the devil of duality is discovered in his own sacred texts?

I Await ...

Of what avail the melodies and glitter,
That an evening muse brings;
Life is false:
The past is faded, 'today' is a brittle 'now';

No Dice Without Reinstatement of Judiciary

The fight is not between democracy and martial-law or Q league or X league, it’s always between the have’s and have not’s.

Sumera Jawad: The Excavated Linearity

Sumera, through her brush, tries to explore the true image of contemporary woman by exhuming the historical representation of the South Asian woman.

Is Patriotism at Times The Last Refuge

We, the third largest ex-pat community in the world after China and India have learnt to keep our fronts, haven’t we?

Political Quandary in Pakistan

You can install a political government by popular vote but there are no effective checks and balances to keep it on the straight, narrow and workable path.

Musharraf and Alternative

General Musharraf, return the power to people, restore the judiciary and reinstate the constitution of Pakistan. We have had enough of you and its not working anymore.

Reflections During a US Visa Grind

An account of the current conditions for visitors to the US Embassy in Islamabad. Also a comment on the mindsets and values of Pakistanis and Americans.

The Empire Strikes Again in Pakistan

Throttling democracy and shackling human rights of 160 million Pakistanis, Musharraf still has the gall to liken his ignoble daylight robbery to Lincoln’s historic nobility.

Do You Have a Substitute?

Emergency in Pakistan was the need of time as we had no other options. Do we have any substitute for General Musharraf? Is there any other person who can run the country?

Martial Law Not Emergency

I have never heard any speech that is more incoherent and insult to the faculties of logic and intellect than this one delivered by Pervez Musharraf.

The Roving Stones

My lords have announced they will cause revolutionary changes, changes that will cause a grass root level change. But how could they?

Pervez Musharraf Declares Emergency in Pakistan

As of 6PM on Saturday President General Musharraf has suspended the constitution and declared State of Emergency in Pakistan.

Mumbai's Farida Khanum Fiasco

Pakistani singer Farida Khanum sang in Mumbai on Friday night for the first time in her 72 years at a concert memorable also for being embarrassingly organised.

Will President Bush Invade Iran?

President Bush has raised the stakes by mentioning the possibility of World War III in a recent press conferences. He has declared the Iranian National Guards as terrorists.

Indian Exceptionalism: Colonial Stereotypes and Postcolonial Realities

Indian exceptionalism manifests itself as nationalist, chauvinist, and fundamentalist sentiment, often mingling unhealthily with other kinds of closed-minded imperatives.

Daughter of the Beast: The General's New Clothes

Benazir is eager to show that she is not doing deals with Musharraf but, as Ahmed Rashid points out, despite the army’s dwindling popularity she needs the army because it controls Pakistan.

Communists and the Making of Pakistan

History of the last years of Punjab under the Raj

Identity and Synergy - Classical Music and Film Song

The popularity of film songs is at a peak today, irrespective of the quality of music. In stark contrast, classical music is getting less patronage and popularity.

The Durrani Family Saga

The poor in Pakistan must be given an alternate to the clergy to take them out from the spiral of ignobility in which they are caught.

Jeenay Do BB

A piece of satire targeted on Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto's return to Pakistan.

Imperialism and the Writing of History

Occupied Iraq and Colonial India

Where's the news?

The so-called "movement against Musharraf" and the unfolding "democratic revolution" seems like a shrinking reality no bigger than a 26-inch TV screen.

Back To Idol Worship

Are musician (so-called marassis) the only people left on planet earth to be our idols? Aren't there people like Naom Chomski, Stephen Hawking even Dr. AQ Khan to be our idols?

The Karachi Brides

We have a package out here; culture, art and means of transportation.

Blinkered Vision: Unravelling the Nuclear Debate

Why is the 'US India Peaceful Nuclear Cooperation Agreement' called 123? The answer lies in the US Atomic Energy Act of 1954. Article 123 of the act governs US 'Cooperation with other countries'.

Shattered by the Status Quo

The recent pro Musharraf decision has been rationalized on the grounds that we need him for keeping democracy on “track”.

National Reconciliation goes truly National

The National Association of Street and Petty Crimes, Karachi Chapter has announced that in the spirit of the newly presented proposal by Pervaiz Musharraf, all its members who have stolen mobiles, snatched cars and killed people over cash between the peri

Friends Not, Masters

An overview of the declasified US secret documents, it has been alleged in those documents that the Pakistan is supporting the Taliban

Army and the President

November 16, 2007, if he sticks to his submission before the Supreme Court through his counsel, Musharraf will leave the post of army chief and become a civilian president.

Bernard Lewis and the Neocon view of Islam

Lewis has had such a profound influence that according to the Wall Street Journal, “the Lewis doctrine, in effect, had become US policy”.

The First Indian-American Governor in America

Odds are that shortly after October 20th Louisiana, US will have the nation’s first-ever governor-elect of Indian descent.

Musharraf’s New Ordinance Hoopla

What is this ordinance hoopla Musharraf and Benazir Bhutto have just come up with. They want to take out accountability from the entire political and banking process.

The Arrest of Nuon Chea- Terror is an Old Hat

The arrest of Nuon Chea, a now obscure but once powerful symbol of terror re-minds us that the war against terror is not a new one.

Alcohol Use and Abuse

Knowledge about alcohol use and abuse allows people to make responsible choices rather than hiding the problem or relying on traditional myths that are hundreds of years old.

Metamorphosis

He was terrified of anyone spinning the cocoon off him, terrified of anyone looking at him closely.

Pakistani Twist to “Aliens in America” TV Series

Are the Pakistani and Muslim community here in America ready for raunchy American teenage humor?

The Ghost of Justice Munir is Still Alive

Islamabad’s nervous and jittery ‘guardians’ have turned the capital city into a fenced-of, ‘no-go’ town.

Musharraf the Out-smarter

A lot is being said and written these days for and against Musharraf who first introduced the concept of ‘Pakistan First’ (keeping Pakistan before self and all).

Confronting Ahmadinejad in U.S.

University authorities failed to draw clear-cut distinction between criticism and insult. Free society does have few limits too.

Musharraf and Pakistan: A Message for the Secretary General of the Commonwealth

Let not the Commonwealth make Musharraf 'an exception story'. Call a spade a spade. Tell it how it is.

Towards God?

I don't know as to whether the world is moving towards God. But these two leaders (Ahmadinejad and Bush) are certain to push to world to brink of disaster.

A History of Failure: The Rise and Fall of Military

Is military rule the solution to Pakistan's problems? Is Musharraf any different than his predecessor generals?

General Colin Powell: Political Casualty of Iraq War

Can he make a comeback? Had he resigned, he would have stayed in the limelight as an elder statesman at the political front.

The Muslim Brotherhood – A Force Not to be Underestimated

If nothing else, the fact that the various despotic regimes in the Arab world hate the Muslim Brotherhood itself is a plus point in their favour.

PM Shoukat Aziz Ponders a Term for Chief Justice

Given the crucial role of Chief Justice and Supreme Court in current Pakistani politics, ruling elite is busy looking at various options to remove this stumbling block.

Cutting Down the Law

With the banishment of Nawaz Sharif once again the General and the incumbent Government has, shown its myopia, arrogance and contempt for the laws of Pakistan.

Inside Story of Nawaz's Cooked Up Return to Pakistan

What actually happened on September 10th, when Nawaz Sharif decided to come back to Pakistan after eight years in exile.

Remembering the Presidential Election of 1965

Today Musharraf looks to Benazir Bhutto to rescue him from his spot between devil and the deep blue sea. He forgets what her father did to Ayub Khan.

Musharraf's Options: Time Running Out

Roundtable proposed in Gulf to sort political mess

Days of Rage

“However flawed democracy here is, it is still the only answer,” she (Asma Jahangir) continued.

Afghanistan: The Continuing Challenge?

Gen. Musharaf and Ms. Bhutto, both equally willing and falling over each other to oblige Washington in the pursuit of its war against terrorism.

Please back off, Benazir!

No matter who finally comes to power in Pakistan, he/she will have to deal with an impatient US administration.

The Dancing Girl of Mohenjodaro

A five thousand year old TEOTWAWKI (The end of the world as we know it) that remains forgotten today by its own.

Suo Motu Action Against Corrupt Stock Brokers of KSE

Investors lost more than $13 billion in stock market crash of March 2005. 88 stock brokers of KSE were found responsible but no action has been taken.

Book Review: Killer Tune by Dreda Say Mitchell

What is race? Is it the colour of our skins, or the faith of an individual, or is it the rebel within?

naustalgia

obsession speaks
speaks to the walls
where a memory crawls

Boots, Beards, Burqas and Bombs

The Lal Masjid operation has intensified Gen Musharraf’s problems - An Analysis.

Of Taufel, Howard And An Apology

Same day that Simon Taufel expressed disappointment with his decision, another Australian, PM John Howard, ruled out an apology to the Indian doctor Mohammad Haneef

Color Me In

My eyes wander around her room – it is clean – each artifact carefully in place as if she arranged her coffin before she decided to die.

Rise of Hindu Right Wing Ideology

Today, when a Hindu shouts an obscenity at Pakistan the Indian Muslim has to shout two to show their patriotism towards India.

What about Bombay 1992?

As the perpetrators of Bombay 1993 are brought to justice, it is only fair to ask where are those who planned the Bombay 1992 carnage?

Emergency: From Behind the Sandbags

Emergency at this time serves Chaudhri Shujaat more than it serves Musharraf, who wants to play this final card not so early.

60 Years of American DogHood

Graffiti in Karachi proclaims that General Musharraf is an American Dog who must be shot dead. (General Amriki Kutta, Tthaa!!). It’s an idea, problem is that not much of Pakistan will remain if we shoot all the American Dogs

Hillary Clinton a Better Presidential Candidate

It is quite clear that Obama has put objectivity aside and is following the foot steps of George Bush to at least promote yet another of US foreign policy blunders.

Images

It is almost 8 evening in Mississauga.I am walking outside. There is an urge to get out the house and walk on the pavements.

A New US Vision?

The US Congressional bill designed to implement the '9/11 Commission Recommendations Act of 2007' contains the seeds of new thinking on Pakistan.

The New Bedfellows

Can Musharraf be content with the usual presidential powers? A stronger Benazir is not likely to be easily controlled.

Life Beyond Chores

She has everything life gives at its best; loving husband, bright obedient children and a comfortable home. “But I have no personal life."

Moral Bankruptcy of Political Leadership in Pakistan

The pundits are saying that Musharaf & Bibi are ideological allies. As if these two camps actually have ideologies.

The Deal and Our Responsibility

Does the deal between Musharraf and Benazir Bhutto really matter? And will we sit and let others to continue muddling with the affairs of Pakistan.

An Empowering Verdict!

Reinstatement of the Chief Justice of Pakistan is indeed a victory for the entire nation.

Rushdie and the British Establishment

It is certainly true that the attitudes and belief systems of pockets of Muslim youth represent a serious challenge to the ethos of a post-industrial, post-modern society; but it is also true that the terrorism that has taken place on British soil or that

A Letter To President Musharraf

Mr. President – we do not desire any more simpleton rhetoric or illogical declarations. We want you to take positions and then stick to them. … We want to allow alcohol and its attendant sins, regulate them, and use them to generate MUCH NEEDE

The Hegemony of the “Cause”

There is something inherently flawed about the notion of placing a cause, however just and noble, before human life.

OPEN Silicon Valley Holds Fourth Annual Forum

This full day affair incorporated three keynote speeches, four panels and workshops and approximately three hundred people in attendance.

Mr. Dollar, The good old days are gone, perhaps forever

The young Euro, once a weakling against the fledgling dollar has quickly become the 800lb gorilla

Shades of Mendacity

“Emma, we have a 7.30 flight to catch. I hope all is packed and ready”, Jacques voice was visibly loud at the door. In 15 minutes, Emma and Jacques were all set for their 7th vacation since their wedding. This time the destination was Zuric

Why Atif Aslam works

'If the color blue could take a voice, it would be that of Atif Aslam'

Satanic Verses

No one has really made their own judgment on the person, his work and for the sake of argument his “character”. But we are quick to condone the knighthood. We are quick to support whatever our “community” is saying.

Musharaff Finds a Way Out

An election year usually carries lots of surprises in it and this one, perhaps the first official one since 70s, is no different.

Carl Friedrich Gauss

It is said that Archimedes knew all the mathematics that was developed up to his time and some more. The same is said of Newton and Carl Gauss.

Hindus in J&K: Elated in minority

Hindus in Jammu and Kashmir, who have been at the receiving end of militancy in the state are elated over the proposal of the UPA government to bring about a law which will decide the status of minorities on the basis of state population.

The Importance of a Dictator’s Failure

By actively and methodically side-lining the political parties that had a presence outside of just one province, national building was turned into national fragmentation.

The General vs. the Judge

The attempt to browbeat a Judge has released a new fissure in Pakistani society. The violence in Karachi makes compromise difficult for both sides. There is an easy solution...

Chief Justice’s Chess

The chess fable illustrates the consequence of exponential growth! It begins slowly and no one notices. But then before you know it you have reached the center of the chess board and things really begin to make an impact.

An Appeal to Honourable Supreme Court Justices

It is time to write a new chapter in the badly chequered history of unfortunate country of ours.

What Next After Karachi’s Carnage?

Although Musharraf denies that he wants a postponement, a lengthy martial law may now be his only chance for a continuation of his dictatorial rule into its eighth year – and perhaps beyond.

Fake Killings: People as Trophies

The manner in which the fake killing(s) have snowballed into a major embarassment for the ’invincible looking’ Modi regime is for everyone to see.

Why is the Government Dithering When it Should Stand Firm?

With religious extremists openly challenging the writ of the state, and despite overwhelming public demands that this be stopped, the government seems to be giving in.

Nietzsche – the Overman and the Three Metamorphoses

The overman can only prevail when God (and the likes of him) is dead and when that age comes “which is to carry heroism into the pursuit of knowledge and wage wars for the sake of thoughts and their consequence” .

Skins On Sale

Adam, a scared man in his millennium, hesitantly entered the shop, and stood alienated from the buyers. He was wrapped in a white cotton sheet that made him conspicuous. He watched the sale of skins with curiosity.

Live Earth - A lesson to be learned

There should be a series of concerts that can take place in all major cities of Pakistan and they should carry ONE message, so that the awareness of that issue is raised.

An Evening with Ustad Asad Amanat Ali Khan: A Tribute

I met Asad Amanat Ali Khan a few years ago; I didn't think I'd never meet him again.

Understanding the Death Fatwa on Taslima Nasreen

It has become a time honoured tactic to incite the faithful into attacking and murdering those dare to criticise Islam and has served the spread of Islam well by terrorizing people into submission and silencing opposition.

War Clouds Over Iran

If not stopped by the Congress, under one pretext or the other, the Bush administration is geared to go beyond just imposing UNSC sanctions against Iran.

Industrial Dieting: The Myth and the Madness

The idea of a quick fix has taken hold of the global psyche through massive advertising and we struggle to buy a box, a pill, a bottle, a program, a spray and a thing to solve our problem

Pakistans Permanent Revolution

The tradition of judicial spinelessness continued in Pakistan facilitating three martial laws and the judicial murder of atleast one prime minister till last week when it was brought to a crashing halt by the actions of one brave justice, Chief Justice of

Jaane kahan gaye voh din!

But a new generation of the young and restless cine fans had replaced the old generation and they had neither the time nor the taste to savour the slow intoxication of the old style of music.

A Nation Reborn

Just when I thought my people would once again silently ignore this new form of oppression, and resign themselves to a fate written by politicians and generals, they responded! They awoke! They said in one voice, “enough is enough!” I have ne

Is this Pakistan’s Democratic Revolution?

After almost seven years of arbitrariness, Musharraf’s attack on the judiciary has the potential of being the last straw that broke the camel’s back?

Men in Khaki

Instead of fixing the PIA bigwigs—mostly cronies of his and Shaukat Aziz—who have brought so much ignominy and shame on Pakistan, the commando general opts to pick up a fight with the Chief Justice of Pakistan, Iftikhar Chaudhry, and embarks o

Justice, Judiciary and Journalist

Removal of ‘just another’ Chief Justice has united the country. The voice of lawyers and journalists is that of the entire country.

Rodeo Drive to Raja Bazaar: A review

The novel traces the life of 10-year-old Natasha between the years 1994 and 2004. After spending the first decade of her life in Los Angeles, Natasha becomes a victim of reverse migration.

Trapped, surrounded, quarantined or just reading too much into it?

I get the strong feeling that Pakistan is definitely under the microscope, if not under quarantine. Not a good feeling to have, I am afraid.

The Dispatches On War: Part X

Metternich And the European Politics of Power: 1815-1850

The YouTube Baby

Even though it may have seemed an exciting prospect for many watching a young (bearded) man standing up to the most powerful person in the country, yes, but about what was he standing up for?

Sabre Rattling in the Persian Gulf

After the experience with the Iraq war and the cooked-up evidence pertaining to the weapons of mass destruction for which Iraq was invaded, the American public has become wary of the administration's intentions in the Middle East. It does not have stomach

Pataudi’s Plight : The game of religious stereo typing

If Pataudi were to grow a beard and appear for photographs wearing a skull cap at the doorstep of a mosque, would he have become a better Muslim?

Huntington's Clash of Civilizations Thesis

Why are such gimmicks, like the “Clash of Civilizations” created and for what purpose?

Know Pakistan

Four tenths of the population live below the poverty line, six tenths have single bedroom houses and eight tenths have no sanitation. What does all this tell us? That in order to fight our demons, we must first know them.

Get over the Victim Syndrome

The real issues that affect our daily lives are never addressed by opposition or the government, instead we are enamored with non-issues like huddod ordinance, attire of mushy, Kashmir, women’s face on hoardings, music in public buses and other crap

Venus, Earth, and Mars - The Untold Story

Some scientists speculate that the three planets, Venus, Earth, and Mars, shared approximately similar geology at the time of their cooling from their molten newly-born states. The evolution of these three planets along different lines from a similar dist

This Really Gets My Goat

As the outcry against the Pakistani governments plan to mine the Durand Line grows, I am reminded of the title of a Ray Bradbury novel published in 1985, Death Is A Lonely Business. Death is a lonely business. Step on an anti-personnel landmine, and it

Texan Poker Bluff and Persian Chess Moves

Many analysts have been warning since 2004 against a planned US attack alone or in cahoots with Israel on Iran, one of the so called axis of evil, in the hoary Western tradition of demonizing those they want to invade, colonise and then loot.

In the Line of Fire, A Review

Musharraf can legitimately be titled as a ’benevolent despot’. He does not possess exceptional intellectual abilities but at least his basic premises are correct. He is a moderate, progressive, forward-looking, intelligent, humorous, frank and

Medicalising Pakistan

A recent visit to Pakistan was the eye opening one. There was one pharmacy in my neighborhood a few years ago, but now the small street is sprawling with five pharmacies and all are doing “wonderful business”.

A Lovers’ Quarrel with Airport Profiling

You wake up early one morning and as you are lying on your back desperately trying to re-enter that cute little dream you were thrown out of, you realize that today you have to head to Boston’s Logan airport to catch a flight to DC...

Where Are They?

In Pakistan, since the past few years, there have been a number of missing persons who have been picked up by “law enforcement agencies” and these people have had a clear record.

The Spirit of Pakistan is Failing

Our great General-President himself admitted in a televised interview that the federation has weakened in the recent past but did anyone question why?

The Impact of Iraq Study Group Report

Iraq has been battered and destabilized by the shabby invasion and it will take plenty of effort and leadership to mend the damaged society.

India, Pakistan and the Kashmir dispute

The number of people who have died and who are still dying in order for us to hold on to our illusory ideals are not worth the ideals.

Truth Behind US-India Nuclear Deal

US-India deal has all the signs of great treaty. However it also contains some ominas signs of India getting trapped in a CIA net.

Iraq Study Group, a day late and a penny short!

You can dress it the way you like it but for all intent and purpose Iraq is done; you can put a fork in it.

Swearing-in Ceremony with Hand on the Bible?

American civilization is not the Christian civilization. America’s constitution is secular which does not discriminate among religions and states upfront, “no religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to any office or public tru

Crime and Human Rights in the Developed World

After the NYPD shot a groom leaving his stag party two days ago, there has been a huge uproar in the American press over what was clearly a crime committed by the men in uniform in the world’s wealthiest city.

Indian Filmmaker Plucks Musical Strings in Pakistan

Khayal Darpan, a documentary film explores Pakistan's Classical Music traditions

What Went Wrong?

Have you noticed a faint air of desperation around the western world capitals these days? Ok, so it is not faint but quite visible. The desperation is around the Iraq war particularly and to a lesser extent, the Afghanistan war.

Musharraf Stirring the Pot in the Tribal Area—Why?

It's hard not to conclude that he’s succumbing to the immense pressure that has been mounted on him from Washington and, closer to home, from Kabul

Indian Muslims

The Sachhar Committee report, to be released in end-November, states that the condition of the majority of Indian Muslims is worse than that of even the Dalits. It recommends, among other measures, an allocation of 15% of all government funds for schemes

Politics of the Mid-Term Elections

No wonder that the war on terror remains awry because much of it is fought to project the administration’s image against the democrats who are labeled as ‘cut and run’ strategists.

Mirza Tahir Hussain – the ongoing tragedy

Prince Charles’ visit to Pakistan has brought into sharp focus the case of Mirza Tahir Hussain, a 36 year old dual British and Pakistani national who has been on and off death row for the last 18 years.

Building Barriers in Britain

It is the extremist views of those who cover their faces that cannot be tolerated in a free liberal society. They put on the pretence of challenging our Western society but try and engage in a conversation that questions their core beliefs and they soon t

The Lament of Master Yoda

Double standards might well be the last bastion of universal brotherhood, seeing as they are practiced by all people everywhere to some degree or other.

Gone is Caravan...

Gone is caravan - seek my eyes in vain
All I see is dust - dust full cloudy train

Click!!

He was in the mosque that he had built and Amir Liaquat Hussain was leading the prayer – strangely, they were the only two people there. As soon as Amir said the final salam, Arsalan heard footsteps behind him. It was Aishwariya...

The Veil Issue, Once Again

Veils were worn by women in Europe during the Victorian era and earlier decades. Society did not institute a banning of veils, rather over a period of time society changed and the veil vanished. Similar is the case of the hijab and the burkha. Education,

Musharraf’s Coup - Seven Years Later

Some had feared – while others had hoped – that General Pervez Musharraf’s coup of October 12, 1999, would bring the revolution of Kemal Ataturk to a Pakistan firmly in the iron grip of mullahs.

Pervez Musharraf Vs. George Orwell

It wasn’t that simple though, I noticed that Pervez Musharraf steers clear from George Orwell’s most cautioned malaise – Lack of Clarity.

Aussie Values: Save us the embarrassement!

The call for Australian values is quite xenophobic at its core. It is just another dig at reviving Hansonism by making an issue out of ethnicity.

The General and Kargil

Seven years later Gen Musharraf offers his version of the Kargil conflict and says it was a major victory for Pakistan both militarily as well as diplomatically.

Hang Guru, if that helps

Right from the day, the death warrants were pronounced Srinagar city is under virtual siege as it has become difficult for the government and forces and keep protesting people off streets.

Musharraf Spilling the Beans—Why Now?

A very serious accusation of America’s high-handedness, its blatant arm-twisting, which sounded all the more sanguine coming from a trusted and loyal ally like Musharraf, with apparently no reason or motive to grind an axe with his mentors whose pat

Let me say..

the hypocrisy of nature’s law
that will now make some millions draw
to selflessly ask for pity and grace
from the one who brought distress!

Thought Control and Dictators

Certainly writ of the state is a must to be restored at any price, but what about the means? Bombing the whole swathes and target killings of political figures is no solution.

Sehra

Sehra ki bheegi ret meN, maine likha aawaargi.... I was puzzled. The words made no sense to me. Sehra always meant to me a flowery veil that an Indian bridegroom wears therefore the song made no sense. When a friend told that it also means desert

For the Heck of It

The critics and analysts have been trying to figure out what is common in existentialism and Bush’s faith as a re-born Christian. The main character in the novel, Meursault, shot and killed an Arab. The magistrate who was examining him was a true Ch

Bihar : Where Kangaroo Courts Rule

Caste panchayats in the heartland of our country often display a lack of consciousness and humaneness which belies the 21st century we live in.

The Death of a Nawab

Akbar Bugti is dead, what next for the Baloch rebellion?

Facing the Inevitable (Part I)

How different are China and the US anyway?

Mission Accomplished II

Although nothing is still very certain; anything may happen to a shaky ceasefire negotiated by the UN, it is a hopeful sign that both sides are willing to observe truce as much as possible. Like the earlier UN resolutions, the current resolution also may

Children of a Lesser God

The US Military officials caution against seeing the cases of abuse and murder as part of any broader pattern, noting that the incidents in question are isolated and rare! But as Bush himself has said, “we are different from our enemies” ̷

Quit India: Hindutva Goons!

Bombay, the city that never sleeps, can be said to be a new barometer of the mood of the broad masses of the Indian people.

Waiting for Enlightenment

After almost five years of ‘enlightened moderation,’ it seems there is more continuity than change. And, with each passing day, it becomes harder to see how such a policy can hope to stem the tide of religious radicalism that is overwhelming P

Sublime

Blasphemy, Photocopy and Electromagnetic Theory

One of the strategic assumptions made by him was that the “Puraana Daur” is back. “Puraana Daur” signified the old times when students, backed by corrupt local politicians, walked on campus brandishing guns, acting like mafia guys.

16% UK Muslims Stand by London Bombers

The headline could well have been, “64 per cent UK Muslims against London bombers”.

Star, Crescent, Cross

Expectedly, the formalities take a long long time. Once done, as I look down from my aircraft window, I feel a great sense of accomplishment at having been there, having seen a bit, and having got a feel of this fantastic place called Israel.

In the Company of Women

For I knew that across the North American landscape, in large cities and small towns, there were others.

The Litmus Test

The Homel