The tragic loss of over 100 children and countless others in a series of targeted killings and bombings highlights the devastating impact of sectarian violence and governmental inaction. Since 2007, the Kurram Agency has recorded over 3,000 sectarian-related killings, as reported by the South Asia Terrorism Portal. This ongoing crisis underscores the urgent need for accountability and collective action. Mental health issues, exacerbated by such violence, are rising at an alarming rate in Pakistan. A lack of awareness, inadequate facilities, and societal stigma leave millions suffering in silence. Studies reveal that between 15% and 35% of Pakistan’s population faces mental health challenges, with healthcare workers also grappling with stress and burnout.

The fact that every tragedy goes down in the annals of history as remorse, while the enemy dares to bounce back, is disgusting. This raises serious questions about Pakistan’s anti-terror strategy. Parachinar, a small town in the Kurram Agency of Pakistan’s Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), has long been a hub of sectarian tensions. The region’s strategic location, nestled between Afghanistan and Pakistan, has made it a focal point for various militant groups, including the Taliban and Lashkar-e-Jhangvi (LeJ). The Pakistani government has allocated a mere Rs—100 million (approximately USD 670,000) for the rehabilitation of affected families.

In an Islamic democratic republic like Pakistan, there is neither democracy nor an Islamic state. Instead,........

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