Community: alien concept for Pakistan?

Sunday, August 31, 2008
Dr Amin A Gadit

In recent times, it has been observed that community mindedness is fast disappearing in our nation. Historically, when Pakistan became independent in 1947, there was visible cohesion among people who are bound by emotions, national spirit and brotherhood. This was somewhat similar to the Ansar and Mohajireens in the Holy Prophet's era. There was a declaration that Pakistan was built for Muslims all over the world where they can practice their religion in its true spirit and philosophy. Though people belonged to different cultures, spoke different languages but they all were united under one banner and made numerous sacrifices for their independent homeland. There have been a number of jolts in the political arena of Pakistan since its earlier days.

Then, after the demise of the father of the nation, people were unable to focus their attention on any leader because of the type of governance and policies they supported. At this crucial time, conspiracies started to weaken the foundation of the country. It has always been said that there were 'hidden hands' but no one has ever known anything clear about this. People in those years were emotionally fragile and hence were manipulated. The concept of one nation started getting blurred by slogans for five different nations, Bengalis, Punjabis, Pakhtoons, Baluchis, Sindhis and this error was introduced by people who had a 'hidden agenda' and were never sincere to Pakistan.

The feudal system and focal kingdoms added momentum to this thought process. The national spirit was eroded by design and the perpetrators were successful in doing so by poisoning the thoughts to the extent that each nation within the country started identifying themselves as individual communities with nothing in common with the other communities. The worst example was witnessed in separation of the east wing of the country. The major compounding factor was the very low literacy level which, to date, has not reached appropriate proportion comparing in comparison with neighbouring states. Education in Pakistan by virtue of low priority was instrumental in blocking polished thought processes and arrested the development of psychological insight in terms of mutual care and understanding.

It appears that at different stages of development, various subtle psychological processes were operational, which gradually found a place in people's mindsets. In time, every nation started working for its own interest and each province of Pakistan started acquiring the sense of deprivation, discrimination and community prejudice. Later, another group was established which believed that their rights were sabotaged and were not accorded due recognition by any government. This group was distinct in the way that it did not fall into any particular category as they originally migrated from India and were called 'refugees'. Soon, there was another recognised community in Sindh known as 'Mohajirs'.

Further cracks came in when other provinces started to feel that the successive governments were failing in giving due provincial autonomy and rights. Gross unemployment and rising poverty further weakened the social fabric. But this malady was deeply coloured by massive corruption at all levels. Still Pakistan ranks very high when we talk about 'poverty line'; an enormous number of the population is deprived of basic needs of life. In a mega city such as Karachi there is dearth of electricity, water and gas. Economic progress has been made by an elite group in Pakistan; they get every luxury under the sun while a contrasting picture is that of people in majority living under abject poverty.

There is a money race as a result of which the sophisticated 'middle class' is fast disappearing. This leaves two distinct classes: the very rich and the very poor. This economic disparity has caused a huge psychological damage and promoted unhealthy behaviour among both the rich and poor. Corruption is so deep rooted in today's Pakistan that one cannot get anything, even rightly deserved, without bribery. The dream of a welfare state was never realised in our country which was perhaps on the agenda at the time of independence. The rulers had no time to look after the condition of the people who they ruled; instead, they were busier looking after their own welfare. Hence, the common people had no role models to follow. Faulty learning comes from high ups and it has rightfully transpired to the people.

Further bifurcation came when our religious leaders failed to inculcate the spirit of brotherhood which is the essence of religion. Earlier, the history had witnessed frictions among different sects which were perpetrated by a number of groups claiming superior understanding of religion over each other. This has created distances among people who are further alienated from each other. Constant suppression, insecurity, fears and frustration has caused a marked psychological fragility among the people. There is an atmosphere of distrust and mistrust among people which has ripened over the years and culminated to the point that the national spirit, mutual respect and care for each other is fast disappearing. People generally avoid helping and caring for each other for the fear of negative repercussions on one hand and microscopic hatred on the other hand based on all the aforementioned factors.

The people of Pakistan have undergone a severe emotional turmoil over the years that has resulted in emotional numbing, carelessness, self-centeredness, aggression, frustration and anxiety. This scenario has washed away the tender emotions of care and love. Also, in the wake of worldly gains, cohesion with religion has also weakened to the extent that even the basic principle of religion "huqooq-ul-ibad" (rights of people) are totally forgotten and are disregarded. Ironically, none of our leaders after Mr Jinnah endeavoured to inculcate this spirit; no role models emerged from religious or community groups. Countries that have progressed are because of the national spirit and community-mindedness. It is high time; we should do something to revive that spirit before it is too late.

The scenario may not be that bleak as there are good people somewhere around us who can take this initiative and emerge as 'role models'. We may get success in re-awakening the community spirit as the nation has temporarily shown unity and cohesion on at least two occasions: during the 1965 war and the recent earthquake. Media can play an effective and definitive role. Let's think deeply and listen to the inner voice. Hope to see a better tomorrow.



The writer is a psychiatrist based in Canada. Email: amin.muhammad@ med.mun.ca