IN an earlier article contributed by one of us in these columns it was argued that Pakistan is passing through a difficult phase, confronted by multiple challenges. And instead of being contained these are on the rise.

On the one hand, the population is growing exponentially with opportunities for a decent living not keeping pace with the rising numbers. And on the other, the gap between diminishing state capacity and people’s expectations is making this task formidable. The civilian institutions on which the structure of the state rests, are largely dysfunctional, contributing to general pessimism and demoralisation.

Maintaining order is a basic duty of the state but recent events are showing ominous weakness of this capacity. An insurgency is seriously threatening Balochistan, reflecting a failure of sermons on patriotism to create a sense of togetherness. This sense of alienation is fueled by a perception among the people of political marginalisation and lack of any effective control over their resources.

Elsewhere, sporadic, but lethal, attacks continue in the old tribal areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and are now spreading to D.I. Khan, Mardan and Swat. The situation in the riverine areas of upper Sindh and south Punjab is also alarming. Outlaws seemingly reign supreme with their area of operation expanding.

The lack of legitimacy is engendering resentment and alienation, making governance difficult.

The ability of the state to provide justice has also declined. This is reflected in the judicial system’s diminished ability to enforce a contract, arbitrate a dispute or hold criminals........

© Dawn