The 19th Asian Games concluded in China on October 8th, with 12,000 athletes from 45 countries participating. Pakistan achieved the 31st position in the medal standings. Notably, male athletes and players reportedly decided not to win any gold medals due to the belief that wearing gold is prohibited for men in Islam. Similarly, women athletes and players refused first positions, expressing a perspective that gold represents worldly possessions, and they were more focused on seeking eternal salvation. Consequently, Pakistan did not pursue any of the 475 gold medals available. However, there were individuals who claimed one silver and two bronze medals, and when reminded of the consequences for violating the national policy, these medal winners reportedly opted to seek asylum elsewhere.
In contrast, neighboring countries, including Afghanistan, outperformed Pakistan on the medals’ table. India, for instance, secured a total of 107 medals, comprising 28 gold, 38 silver, and 41 bronze. The post mentions that Pakistan is contemplating an appropriate response to India’s performance, hinting at the preparation of patriotic songs (“Millie Naghmay”) as part of this response.
Amid this backdrop, authorities are reportedly considering the possibility of shutting down sports and Olympic bodies, citing the redirection of the funds allocated to these bodies towards other areas like the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) and discretionary fund allocations to parliamentarians. The overall tone reflects a sense of disillusionment with the state of Pakistani sports, lamenting its decline.
Key Decisions of the Apex Committee with Relevance to Afghanistan
The Apex Committee has recently announced crucial decisions in response to the expectations of the Pakistani people, with specific relevance to the situation involving Afghanistan. Here are some of the significant measures:
- Deadline for Departure: All foreign nationals residing in Pakistan illegally are urged to leave the country by October 31, 2023.
- Enforcement Actions: Starting November 1, 2023, federal and provincial law enforcement agencies will take necessary measures to apprehend and forcibly deport all unlawfully residing foreigners.
- Border Control Measures: Effective from October 10, 2023, travel across the Pakistan-Afghanistan border will require a computerized identity card (E-Tazkira), and from November 1, 2023, only passport and visa holders will be allowed passage.
- Confiscation of Assets: Commencing November 1, 2023, businesses and properties owned by illegal foreigners will be confiscated, and legal action will be taken against both these unlawful business operators and their accomplices.
- Punitive Measures for Supporters: Stringent legal measures will be taken against any Pakistani citizen or company found providing shelter or support to illegal foreigners in Pakistan after November 1, 2023.
- Task Force for Fraudulent Documentation: A task force, under the Ministry of Home Affairs, will work towards identifying individuals with counterfeit identity cards and properties acquired through fraudulent documentation.
- Invalidation of Counterfeit Identity Cards: NADRA has been instructed to promptly invalidate all counterfeit identity cards, and in cases of identity doubt, DNA tests will be conducted for confirmation.
- Reporting Mechanism: Information regarding the illegal residence or business activities of foreigners in Pakistan can be reported through the web portal and UAN helpline, with assured confidentiality for those cooperating with the city government.
- Action Against Illegal Activities: Vigorous action is already being taken against illegal activities such as hoarding, smuggling, and power theft, with no immunity for those involved.
- Smuggling Combat Measures: Joint check posts have been established with custom powers to combat smuggling, and technology is being employed to monitor the transportation of essential food items.
- Efforts Against Illicit Practices: Efforts to combat currency smuggling, hawala handi business, and electricity theft are underway, with a reporting mechanism for individuals involved in such activities.
- Drug Control Center: A narcotics control center will be established to coordinate anti-narcotics efforts and provide intelligence information, with strict punishments for drug traffickers.
- Drug Rehabilitation Centers: Drug rehabilitation centers will be established in each province in a phased manner.
- Ban on Armed Groups: Only the state is authorized to use force, and no political armed groups or organizations are permitted in Pakistan.
- Religious Exploitation: Islam, as a religion of peace, will not be exploited for political purposes, and the state will not tolerate interpretations of religion that aim to achieve political goals.
- Minority Rights: The rights of minorities and religious freedom are integral to Islam and the Pakistani constitution, and the state will enforce the law rigorously against any violations.
- Peaceful Presentation of Demands: Organizations based in the country can peacefully and legally present their legitimate demands to the state for resolution.
- Cyber Law Enforcement: Propaganda and disinformation campaigns will be strictly dealt with under cyber laws.
- Implementation Procedures: Technical procedures are being devised to ensure awareness and implementation of these laws, with a focus on compliance and the convenience of the people.
- Upholding Principles: Upholding the basic principles of faith, unity, and discipline is paramount, and law enforcement agencies are entrusted with maintaining the rule of law while promoting discipline.
- National Discipline: Discipline is indispensable for achieving national goals, aligning with the path followed by developed nations worldwide.
These decisions reflect the government’s commitment to addressing security concerns and ensuring the rule of law, with specific measures aimed at managing the challenges associated with undocumented immigrants, border control, and various illicit activities.
