The article “Prospects of Pakistan's Islamist resurgence” (Feb. 16) by Praveen Swami follows the predictable pattern of detailing the horrifying speeches and deeds of a few extremist leaders and portraying them as powerful forces which, if we are not careful, may at any time start a major jihad that will swallow all of us, ordinary folks. He quotes Hafiz Saeed to support his idea without mentioning that his statement has absolutely no basis in any authentic Islamic tradition. Banning kites, again, has nothing to do with Islam.
The defence of Pakistan President Zardari — who he claims has genuine bases of support — is amusing. Everyone knows that Mr. Zardari is the very epitome of corruption and has looted his country. He is not even an elected leader. The use of terms like “toxic Islamism” is deeply offensive. The world is full of Muslims who are kind and compassionate, and Islamic political movements that have given the poor and dispossessed a voice.
S. Goga,
Chennai
Islam will forever remain tied to Pakistan's political destiny. Life is bound to get affected when faith attempts to dominate in institutions of governance. Pakistan is at a crossroads as it has never experienced a stable phase of political vision. Liberal democratic elements need to make their presence stronger if Pakistan's political future is to be rescued.
Sunil Kumar,
Delhi
