The Islamic Republic of Pakistan came into existence on the world map as a separate and independent state on August 14, 1947. This is not hidden from anyone, and we all know that millions of people sacrificed their lives in the making of Pakistan because they all want a separate state, a separate nation, a separate homeland where they can live as they want.
They all want a separate Islamic country where they live happily according to Islamic culture, norms and values. However, some incompetent and irresponsible people or stakeholders in Pakistan ruined the whole system.Â
The people of a country play a crucial role in determining its success or failure. Since the majority of people in this country are Muslims and the nation was founded in the name of Islam, Islam is directly targeted whenever a Pakistani commits misconduct.
In my opinion, it should be recognized that the new generation is gradually distancing itself from religion. Arguably, as a nation, we have morally, economically, and religiously fallen far. Only a few individuals have managed themselves even in this day and age, proving to be responsible citizens and devout Muslims.
With great regret, I have to express that our generation today is distant from Islamic culture, norms, and values. They fail to recall the moral and ethical lessons taught by Islam. Even other religious festivals are celebrated and enthusiastically participated in by our new generation, under the impression that doing so promotes peace. However, the teachings of Islam regarding tidiness, patience, morality, and other virtues are overlooked.
Despite receiving modern education, we should not neglect religious education. It might be a sign of distancing from religion or a lack of consciousness that most people of Pakistan are unable to read Arabic properly, which is our religious language in which our religion is revealed. It is essential to emphasize the importance of maintaining a balance between modern and religious education to foster a deeper understanding of our faith.
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Some people who are inexperienced with the Arabic language consider themselves scholars, create hype and issues, and hurt the sentiments of others on a calligraphic word on a shirt. If law enforcement, the police, and the Ulamah do not step in on cases such as the Lahore Halwa Incident, it will be disastrous. If these people are real Muslims, they will maintain a high level of women’s privacy, respect for other cultures, and hygiene.Â
Cleanliness, considered as half of faith in Islam, is not evident in most of Pakistan. When visiting the country, cleanliness is rarely observed, except in a few areas. It would be unfair to hold illiterate residents of small towns and slums responsible for improper trash discard; even college students ignore the issue. This is the mental state of educated people; they find it degrading to use garbage and prefer to leave waste where they eat.
To develop this country, we must initiate change from within ourselves. Developed countries do not find it necessary to label shops with signs like “pure milk” or “pure honey” – such assurances are uniquely sought in Pakistan. However, the people who incessantly label their politicians as corrupt, thieves, robbers, and frauds are the ones actively engaging in corruption.
The new generation of today must be sufficiently empowered and strong because they are the future of the nation. Just stating that this country lacks competent politicians or that its system is flawed is not helpful. An irresponsible citizen burdens society, so it is our responsibility to become responsible citizens. Only competent and responsible citizens can make a country prosperous.Â
We, as a society, are not practicing; we are sentimental Muslims. Consequently, we are heading towards decline. Common occurrences such as lying, adultery, cheating, abuse, and violence reflect a growing trend of aggression and intolerance. The same applies to our rulers because, like the people, we like the rulers.
What we need is more consciousness than noise. Every individual bears the responsibility to become a useful citizen in their respective roles and actively seek solutions within the existing system. Do not underestimate any act of kindness and initiate change within yourself. Pakistan will change only when we change.
Author Hafsa Khan is a research fellow at World Affairs Insider.
**Â The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not reflect the views or position of World Affairs Insider. The organization neither endorses nor takes responsibility for the content of this article and its accuracy.
