Streaks of White in the Green

In the first chapter of his book Gods and Godmen of India, Khushwant Singh describes the meaning of the word ‘Kafir’. He very effectively tries to clear the mist this word has been subjected to surround, advertently or inadvertently, by the religious zealots. He drives to a conclusion that the meaning of the Arabic Word refers to infidel. The word is commonly used in Pakistan and is adored by the regressive extremists as it serves as a shield for them in our country, where blasphemy laws prevail without a judge or a jury.

Anyone committing blasphemy is branded kafir and does not live to see another sunrise. It’s appalling that anyone would make such a grave mistake knowing the severe consequences. Are the minorities, who are labeled as kafirs day in and day out, truly at fault for these so-called transgressions? Transgressions that cost them their lives. It is absurd to think they would willingly take such risks. So, what leads to this tragic outcome?

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One is quick to put the blame on the uneducated religious extremist masses, holding them responsible for the atrocities and blaming their extremist views for their actions. However, it comes as no surprise when we also see our learned politicians use such dreadful strategies against each other to gain peoples support. Very recently we saw the ruling coalition accusing the PTI leader for blasphemy. It trended on twitter and ultimately saw its demise. Such tactics account for multiple things.

Firstly, our politicians exploit religious sentiments for their own gain, assuming the populace is naive enough to be manipulated. They believe that religious fervour can easily dominate individuals in Pakistan, and that this control is paramount. Secondly, our population’s deep-seated spiritual ardor borders on extremism. We harbour resentment towards minorities and seize every opportunity for retribution simply because their beliefs diverge from ours.

Moreover, unlike any other part of the world, Pakistan has been burdened with a group of fanatical mullahs who emerged during the country’s inception, bringing with them their vehement zeal. Somehow, we conceded to their demands (the reasons for which remain a mystery to this day) and allowed them to assume the authority to dictate religious norms and values. The foundations of this group bear striking similarities to those of the Ku Klux Klan, which once held sway in America.

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The Quaid stated that the white in our national flag, surrounded by green, symbolises the protection of minorities. Demonstrating solidarity with the oppressed Palestinians by banning Israeli products is good, but it must be coupled with our own commitment to not oppressing our minorities.

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Despite our efforts, we have yet to discover a lasting solution to this issue, and perhaps we never will. The sporadic media attention these incidents garner, along with the empathy of the well-read and educated, offers no real assistance to minorities. While it may be a small comfort to know that some within the majority recognise the injustices being perpetrated, this awareness does little to protect the lives of those affected.

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The three groups—leaders, the illiterate common people, and fanatical mullahs—can all be held responsible for the turmoil. But, is it just one of these that ignites the fire, with the others merely getting caught up in the flames? It is difficult to single out one group, as they all share common traits. Perhaps it is the fanatical mullahs who incite hatred and embolden the common man to act without hesitation. This, in turn, provides an opportunity for leaders to exploit the situation, they find it conducive to play the religion card (even if the accused shares the same religious devotion) after the seed of hatred has been planted. No one is immune to this, though it is undeniable that minorities suffer the most.

The issue has been troubling Pakistan since its inception, but it has become alarming in the recent past and now. However, there has been little to no progress in achieving the harmony necessary for a cohesive society. This raises numerous questions about the obstacles preventing us from attaining peace. One frequently encounters the explanation that illiteracy among the masses is to blame. Nevertheless, when one probes deeper, it is often found that those who have attempted to understand the root of the problem are met with a simplistic and dismissive retort by the flag bearers of right and wrong, the Mullahs: “You Kafir!”

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