Thursday, June 20, 2013

Security Policy


Security is one single factor effecting growth, reputation and prosperity of Pakistan. In general blame is shifted on political parties, Afghan Refugees, separatist, Talibans, etc.   There is no doubt that all these factors do contribute to growing lawlessness in the country; yet there are much simpler and easier methods to improve deteriorating law and order situation.
Crime is divided in two main categories namely Personal and Property, both these categories include all elements mentioned above, making it difficult to address the issue effectively. Another perspective of criminal activities with respect to common man depicts three main categories namely Terrorism, Ransom and Street Crime, excluding white collar crime committed by government functionaries and politicians. 
It is important to understand that security situation in Pakistan will never improve without taking remedial measures.  But, inter-relation of crimes with the category of people committing it is so intertwined that it seems difficult to identify the loose end.  As Napoleon said that there is no word like impossible.  A rational approach to the problem surely indicates a way out.  Analytical approach towards security issues in Pakistan reveals that it is organized street crime which is effecting common man.  Terrorism, Kidnapping and Extortion may have larger quantum, yet remains confined to lesser number of people as compared to majority of citizens.  Therefore, the foremost thing is to provide peace of mind to common man and first address the issue which is effecting larger segment of society.
Security of citizens cannot be addressed by treating the symptoms.  To ensure a safe environment for citizens and tourists it is essential to treat the root cause. Most of the crimes take place when environment is conducive. Hence, crime can be considerably reduced and controlled just by denying a favourable environment.
Question arises as to what is an encouraging environment for crimes against common man.  Two places - Very crowded public areas and secluded zones.  Most of the people are subjected to street crimes in most crowded places, especially roads during traffic jams, red light and road blockages.  Roads become idea playground for street criminals when there is commotion, chaos, jams, unwanted pedestrian movement at traffic lights, etc.  Root cause of these congestions is violation of traffic rules, unauthorized parking, walking vendors and beggars. 
Law exists to address all four factors, only implementation is missing; which can be done by local administration, provided they have a will to do that. Safe estimates indicate that 60-70% of street crime and at least 10-15% of heinous crimes can be controlled just by implementing traffic rules and regulations. 
What is stopping us to do that?

No comments:

Post a Comment