A policy on terror

With the increase in terrorist attacks on innocent and unsuspecting people, a realization has finally emerged among major political parties that what is at stake is the country's integrity, and something needs to be urgently done to put an end to acts of the sort. The PPP, PML(N), ANP and MQM have vowed to fight terrorism. The JUI(F) too has condemned such attacks. There is however no agreement yet on concrete measures that need to be taken. The briefing by the security agencies would hopefully help the parties to formulate a national policy.

The government made the right move by inviting all heads of parties to the briefing, irrespective of whether they were members of Parliament or not. It is unfortunate that both Qazi Hussain Ahmad and Mr Imran Khan should have decided not to attend the in-camera session. By first boycotting the elections, and then not attending the briefing on a highly crucial national issue, they have provided their critics an opportunity to blame them for indulging in opposition for the sake of opposition.