MQM’s Responsibility
By Naveed Khan
Pleasanton, CA
Responding to Riaz-Ul-haq's observation on the changing demographics of Sindh and the impending change in MQM politics because of compulsions, I wish to say that the MQM leadership has wasted almost three decades in politics of ethnicity, parochialism and violence. It is imperative that social, cultural, academic and economic leaders of Pakistan shun groupings along linguistic lines and work for politics of inclusion and progressive development.
Urdu is the national language that has been accepted by the entire nation, it is no longer the domain of the migrants from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. People of Pakistan, and especially those of Sindh, are large hearted and magnanimous. They welcomed the migrants and afforded them social integration and economic opportunities that were not available to them in India. Because of better education and adoption of Urdu as the national language, descendants of Urdu-speaking migrants have been elevated to a natural leadership position. They have the skills, acumen and passion to lead the entire nation. The tragedy is that they are following a leadership that is myopic and entrenched in the politics of ethnicity, dominance and violence.
The people who are represented by MQM must stand up and take the responsibility of guiding Pakistan to a state/nation which is progressive, tolerant and governed by rules of law. MQM, although now named Muttihada (originally Mohajjir) Qaumi Movement simply connotes that it represents the Mohajirs from Urdu-speaking parts of India. It is an unfortunate development and a divisive tragedy for Pakistan. MQM's vision and mission should have always been to lead the entire nation.
My suggestion is that the MQM should rename itself as PQM, Pakistan Qaumi Movement, and change its leadership. The legacy of violence, recriminations, and ethnicity can be overcome with the change in name. Pakistan needs leadership in all spheres and people who are represented by MQM have the best capabilities to do so; unfortunately, so far their leadership has failed them and Pakistan.
