Justice Denied

Culture is equally special in Pakistan’s social fabric. The rich
repertoire of poetry and music includes romantic,
resistance, and even reverent genres. The diversity of
languages and musical instruments help build bridges and
overcome differences. Performing and fine arts are also
versatile and valued. There is pride in past maestros, and
also appreciation of contemporary artistes. Despite the
centrality of sports and culture, and their potential to
promote understanding, social cohesion and a celebration
of diversity, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s development budget
for 2012-13 disappointingly shows a mere 0.47 per cent as
cumulative allocation in these sectors.
Locational inequities indicate that some have more than
others, and many have none at all. Half of the entire funds
for sports in Khyber Pakhunkhwa’s development budget for
FY2012-13 are allocated to three of the 25 districts of the
province, while 18 districts do not receive any public
resources for sports. A few large stadiums and sports
complexes, mostly in urban areas, appear to be preferred
over provision of facilities that benefit urban and rural
citizens at the town, union council or village levels.
Activities that bring people together are largely restricted
to funerals, weddings and protests.
Legendary poet Ahmad Faraz
The young that constitute about one-third of Pakistan’s
population, and are also most likely to be influenced by
social harmony or discord appear to have priority claim on
investments that can end the vicious cycle of injustice
breeding anger, revenge and violence. The paltry 0.03 per
cent allocated for youth affairs provide more evidence of
skewed policy priorities. Low levels of investment in the
young are even more alarming in the face of fast receding
platforms for expression and entertainment. Left to fend
for themselves, the youth increasingly rely on social or
electronic media for information and amusement. Mostly
unmet, are their needs for healthy physical exercise and
intellectual growth. Opportunities for girls are even more
restricted with socially imposed norms limiting their use of
public spaces for entertainment or physical exercise.
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