Militant phenomenon

IN the continuing series of clashes between the security forces and the militants in Swat and suicide attacks, nearly 70 persons were killed and 45 injured in three different incidents there on Saturday, the deadliest day since the trouble began in the valley. Among the dead were reported to be 40 militants, 11 security personnel and the rest being civilians. The casualty tally so far would add up to hundreds, maybe a couple of thousands, among them many an intrepid fighter on either side and a large number of unarmed citizens; yet the fury shows no signs of abating. The daily rhythm of life has taken a severe battering, having been marked by curfews and interrupted business and social activity, fear for survival and large-scale shifting of the population, and the inevitable suffering.