Pakistan is not big a country and therefore, when one part is affected, the entire country feels the pressure. Now, after the operation against the Taliban in Swat, millions of people have migrated from the area and this exodus has created a tremendous humanitarian challenge for Pakistan. Not only is the country responsible for housing and feeding these internal refugees, but Islamabad is also trying to make sure that the displaced people are protected from the terrorist, and also, focus on the on-going operation against the violent militants in Swat area. This level of disturbance and migration would have jolted even the very wealthy countries and Pakistan is neither wealthy, nor stable.
The government is trying to do whatever it can. The Prime Minister has announced a massive aid package, but what he offered is going to yield very little after the bureaucracy is done with this money. So, what is needed is a multi layered strategy to help the displaced people, i.e. protecting them from diseases, providing them with food, water, electricity and other daily necessities, ensuring that the educational progress of the displaced children is on track, and efforts to help these people re-start their lives where they left them is critical.
Fortunately, the world is united in helping Pakistan during this crisis. Now the politicians in the country, especially Muslim League (N) headed by Nawaz Sharif must come forward and support the government restore peace and stability in Swat region.
No, not words of cooperation, but actual cooperation, both behind the scenes and in public.
Also important for Nawaz Sharif and his party is to control their leader, Ch. Nisar Ali Khan from launching vitriolic attacks on the U.S. while speaking in the National Assembly. Instead, they should focus on developing a comprehensive road map for helping to a) secure the country so that no one the future is able to take over any particular area, just like the Taliban did, and b) finding ways to quickly and painlessly rehabilitating the displaced Pakistanis. Rest, as for as ordinary Pakistani is concerned, can be worked out later. The need of the hour is to unite against religious, ethnic and political militancy so that the country does not erupt into chaos.
