Every now and then, we come across pragmatic speeches, columns and academic discourses — not necessarily from the beneficiaries of the system — that echo the idea that we, as a nation, seldom learn from historical follies. This might, for many, sound like mere blunders or thoughtless insanity; yet the unapologetic pursuit of these common patterns across history speaks otherwise.

Notwithstanding the blame-shifting by successive power dispensations on their predecessors, no one has bothered to learn from history and include the lessons in policies and practices. The perpetuation of "cursed" policies and pursuits suggests both foresight and vision. A vision to sustain the decades-old practices so that their architects can stay relevant.

The policies and practices — all in the name of democracy, national security imperatives, sensitised religious and nationalistic sentiments and repeatedly betrayed promises of public prosperity — have left little, if any, space for the needs of the people. The decades-long continuation of these practices by........

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