Why Missing Persons are missing?

(Written by: Abdul Basit Alvi)

In Pakistan, when the government and law enforcement agencies take stringent actions against terrorist elements, the so-called advocates of human rights immediately step forward. Interestingly, these advocates often remain silent when other countries implement even more stringent measures against such elements within their borders. Our judicial justice system is widely known for its flaws and delays, with cases taking years to conclude and often resulting in the punishment of the innocent while the actual culprits go free. In such circumstances, whenever our agencies detain a suspicious person for investigation and evidence collection, accusations of forceful and unlawful arrests arise.

I firmly believe that our agencies do not apprehend innocent individuals without reason, and there is always substance behind these arrests. If one is innocent and has not acted against the state or armed forces, there is no reason for anyone to apprehend them. There is always a story behind every missing person, and our religion emphasizes the love for our country, the nation that has granted us identity and freedom. This loyalty is especially evident when we consider the struggles for freedom faced by the Palestinians and the people of Kashmir in Occupied Kashmir.

Therefore, it is the responsibility of every individual to recognize the significance of our freedom, an independent country, and a patriotic army. While it may be easy to immediately blame agencies for allegedly catching innocents, it is essential to remember that these arrests have led to the disclosure of many terrorists, anti-state elements, and foreign spies. Terrorists never admit their crimes themselves, and investigations are crucial to extracting information from them. National security is a non-negotiable aspect, and no country in the world compromises on this front.

I have come across numerous columnists and journalists who consistently blame agencies, often looking at only one side of the picture. In presenting a comprehensive and truthful picture, I attempt to address those who question why some individuals go missing. I don’t assert that all missing persons are culprits, as it is not my role or that of journalists to make such determinations. Only a thorough investigation can establish the innocence or guilt of individuals. Various factors contribute to the phenomenon of missing persons. Notably, not all individuals reported as missing are under the jurisdiction of law enforcement agencies; some have affiliations with terrorist organizations and engage in conflict against the state. Individuals with ties to terrorism may go into hiding to evade arrest. Additionally, some people become missing due to personal vendettas, seeking refuge in remote areas to escape potential revenge from adversaries. Others may be connected to cross-border smuggling and various criminal activities, prompting them to remain in hiding. The classification of these individuals as missing persons can be intentional or unintentional, influenced by design or lack of awareness.

Recently, an honorable court has instructed interim Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar to attend court proceedings in the event that he is unable to ensure the retrieval of over 50 Baloch students who are reportedly missing. It is deemed inappropriate to involve the court in overseeing missing persons cases. Notably, Pakistan has the lowest number of missing persons in the region, and the missing persons issue has been utilized as a propaganda tactic against the country. It is worth mentioning that 78% of the cases listed have been successfully resolved.

Readers, in the current situation, it is the responsibility of every individual to exercise caution while speaking or engaging in activities that may jeopardize our national security. Additionally, it is everyone’s duty to cooperate with agencies and provide them with all relevant information regarding anti-state and terrorist elements, contributing to making our country a land of peace and prosperity.