HOW did the idea of the Senate come into being? The straightforward answer is that it was established under the Constitution of 1973. That is correct, but what historical experience led our elders to conceive of an upper house? The usual answer is that it was intended to protect the political and economic interests of provinces, both large and small. This, too, is correct, but it does not tell the whole story. I am grateful to the young researcher Dr Dilawar Hussain, who prompted me to look at the question from another perspective. Before explaining what I learned from his research, let me say a few words about him. I would not have known him had we not met one afternoon a few months ago.

He called to request a meeting. Despite having no prior acquaintance or introduction, we managed to arrange one. People today are often reluctant to meet strangers, let alone invite them home. However, Dilawar spoke with such courtesy that, instead of feeling apprehensive, I invited him over. I learned that he teaches at the National University of Modern Languages (NUML). Our young people sometimes assume that a little education and a few published articles place them above others. Dilawar, however, was different: gentle, unassuming and enthusiastic, yet mature and serious. I enjoyed our conversation. He believed that the distortions in our educational curriculum’s presentation of history........

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