THE idea of society divided along the lines of lineage or professional and economic well-being has remained the hallmark of civilisations. Take ancient India’s entrenched caste system — which continues today — in which people were divided into the Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, Shudras and the untouchables. Similar classifications existed across feudal Japan and mediaeval Europe. Yet, the idea of equality among citizens around the world has taken centre stage. From movements calling for gender equality to campaigns calling for the abolishment of racial inequalities, the world has come a long way.

Never one to shy away from legislative excellence, Pakistan has codified the idea of equality of its citizens as a fundamental right in Article 25 of its Constitution. As per the article, every citizen of Pakistan is equal, irrespective of class, lineage, profession, background, resource or designation. And yet, Pakistan remains as divided today as it has ever been.

There are classes in society, which have quietly taken shape and the citizens of this great nation have learned to accept it. Much like the civilisations of old, this new ‘caste system’ in Pakistan is based on wealth, profession, designation, proximity to the........

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