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Pakistan Under Seige [Hardcover] Madiha Afzal
Over the last fifteen years, Pakistan has come to be defined exclusively in terms of its struggle with terror. But are ordinary Pakistanis extremists? And what explains how Pakistanis think?
Much of the current work on extremism in Pakistan tends to study extremist trends in the country from a detached position—a top-down security perspective, that renders a one-dimensional picture of what is at its heart a complex, richly textured country of 200 million people. In this book, using rigorous analysis of survey data, in-depth interviews in schools and universities in Pakistan, historical narrative reporting, and her own intuitive understanding of the country, Madiha Afzal gives the full picture of Pakistan’s relationship with extremism.
The author lays out Pakistanis’ own views on terrorist groups, on jihad, on religious minorities and non-Muslims, on America, and on their place in the world. The views are not radical at first glance, but are riddled with conspiracy theories. Afzal explains how the two pillars that define the Pakistani state—Islam and a paranoia about India—have led to a regressive form of Islamization in Pakistan’s narratives, laws, and curricula. These, in turn, have shaped its citizens’ attitudes.
Afzal traces this outlook to Pakistan’s unique and tortured birth. She examines the rhetoric and the strategic actions of three actors in Pakistani politics—the military, the civilian governments, and the Islamist parties—and their relationships with militant groups. She shows how regressive Pakistani laws instituted in the 1980s worsened citizen attitudes and led to vigilante and mob violence. The author also explains that the educational regime has become a vital element in shaping citizens’ thinking. How many years one attends school, whether the school is public, private, or a madrassa, and what curricula is followed all affect Pakistanis’ attitudes about terrorism and the rest of the world.
In the end, Afzal suggests how this beleaguered nation—one with seemingly insurmountable problems in governance and education—can change course.
208 pages, Hardcover
Published March 16, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
September 2, 2021
The impressive thing about this book is how it explains the connection between extremism and education. How education can be used to instil extremist ideas in people's minds(that is the case with Pakistan).
July 12, 2020
Pakistan : A country only for the Sunni Muslims
---------------------------------------------------
Nations are born in the hearts of poets, they prosper and die in the hands of politicians.
- Muhammad Iqbal
When Allama Iqbal had written this quote, he never had imagined in his wildest dreams, that it was not only politicians, which will ruined his dream Land (Pakistan), but it was the lethal combination of army generals and incompetent politicians, which guided Pakistan to the path of self-destruction.
Pakistan under siege, extremism, society and the State, by Madiha Afzal, is another well researched book on Pakistan. And the USP of this book is that rather than talking about Jinnah, Gandhi, Nehru and the reasons which led to the formation of Pakistan, she has taken the bottom-up approach and visited Pakistan and interviewed ordinary Pakistani citizens and asked about their views, on terrorism, on minorities, on USA and the arch-rival India etc.
And the result of these interviews is worrisome because majority of the Pakistani students showed their anti-india and anti-usa, bias, and they are somewhat favourable towards the terrorists organizations like, Let (Lashkar-e-taiba), which is anti-india.
And the reason of this negative attitude towards, India and USA, is the wrong and faulty education system of pakistan, which was designed by their state in such a way that it only promotes conspiracy theories.
And the man who was responsible for this indoctrination was General zia-ul-haq, who ruled Pakistan from 1977 to 1988, with an Iron hand. And he single handedly changed the course of pakistan forever, and the process of talibanization or islamization which was started during his Regime, is still haunting Pakistan and it's society.
And the author has rightly said that the Pakistani army should have to shed it's anti-india attitude, and they also have to stop differentiating between the Good Taliban and Bad Taliban. And if they can't do this, then it is very harmful for Pakistan itself.
The language of this book is very easy to read, and this book on pakistan is different, because it genuinely diagnosed the problem of pakistan very well, and also like a good doctor it offered the solution for the disease itself. And I recommend this book only to those Readers who are genuinely interested in reading about Pakistan.
My Ratings ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
I hope you like the Review, thanks for reading, Jai Hind.
For more information you can visit - https://dontbignorant.in/
Table of contents :-
-------------------------
1. A country of radicals? Not quite
2. Bound to its narrative : The Pakistani state and terrorist groups
3. Pakistan's legal islamization
4. An ideological education
5. Islamists and Madrassas
6. An Appraisal and a way forward
---------------------------------------------------
Nations are born in the hearts of poets, they prosper and die in the hands of politicians.
- Muhammad Iqbal
When Allama Iqbal had written this quote, he never had imagined in his wildest dreams, that it was not only politicians, which will ruined his dream Land (Pakistan), but it was the lethal combination of army generals and incompetent politicians, which guided Pakistan to the path of self-destruction.
Pakistan under siege, extremism, society and the State, by Madiha Afzal, is another well researched book on Pakistan. And the USP of this book is that rather than talking about Jinnah, Gandhi, Nehru and the reasons which led to the formation of Pakistan, she has taken the bottom-up approach and visited Pakistan and interviewed ordinary Pakistani citizens and asked about their views, on terrorism, on minorities, on USA and the arch-rival India etc.
And the result of these interviews is worrisome because majority of the Pakistani students showed their anti-india and anti-usa, bias, and they are somewhat favourable towards the terrorists organizations like, Let (Lashkar-e-taiba), which is anti-india.
And the reason of this negative attitude towards, India and USA, is the wrong and faulty education system of pakistan, which was designed by their state in such a way that it only promotes conspiracy theories.
And the man who was responsible for this indoctrination was General zia-ul-haq, who ruled Pakistan from 1977 to 1988, with an Iron hand. And he single handedly changed the course of pakistan forever, and the process of talibanization or islamization which was started during his Regime, is still haunting Pakistan and it's society.
And the author has rightly said that the Pakistani army should have to shed it's anti-india attitude, and they also have to stop differentiating between the Good Taliban and Bad Taliban. And if they can't do this, then it is very harmful for Pakistan itself.
The language of this book is very easy to read, and this book on pakistan is different, because it genuinely diagnosed the problem of pakistan very well, and also like a good doctor it offered the solution for the disease itself. And I recommend this book only to those Readers who are genuinely interested in reading about Pakistan.
My Ratings ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
I hope you like the Review, thanks for reading, Jai Hind.
For more information you can visit - https://dontbignorant.in/
Table of contents :-
-------------------------
1. A country of radicals? Not quite
2. Bound to its narrative : The Pakistani state and terrorist groups
3. Pakistan's legal islamization
4. An ideological education
5. Islamists and Madrassas
6. An Appraisal and a way forward
April 23, 2019
A below average book, where problems are made too simple.
Pakistani society has complex/multidimensional issues, which a mere reform in educational system, is not the only answer. What I am unable to understand, why everyone wants to look through countries in general & Pakistan in specific through the lens of western world or western democracies/political system? Each country has it's own culture & that's make that country unique. Why we need to take that individuality away?
There is no doubt that, Pakistan has suffered from extremism, but the reason just not only lies in educational system, there are other reasons to it as well. Pakistanis in general are conservative (and that is not due to educational system) but they are not extremists (that is too not because of educational system).
World needs to understand, Pakistanis are devoted to their religion, their culture (which is dominated by religion) & their roots. Any effort, overt or covert, to change that devotion or that system, artificially will be resisted by masses. Countries change through process of evolution, and that process has to be given time every where.
I completely disagree with the build up of argument in this book, the reasoning given has many flaws and are debatable.
Pakistani society has complex/multidimensional issues, which a mere reform in educational system, is not the only answer. What I am unable to understand, why everyone wants to look through countries in general & Pakistan in specific through the lens of western world or western democracies/political system? Each country has it's own culture & that's make that country unique. Why we need to take that individuality away?
There is no doubt that, Pakistan has suffered from extremism, but the reason just not only lies in educational system, there are other reasons to it as well. Pakistanis in general are conservative (and that is not due to educational system) but they are not extremists (that is too not because of educational system).
World needs to understand, Pakistanis are devoted to their religion, their culture (which is dominated by religion) & their roots. Any effort, overt or covert, to change that devotion or that system, artificially will be resisted by masses. Countries change through process of evolution, and that process has to be given time every where.
I completely disagree with the build up of argument in this book, the reasoning given has many flaws and are debatable.
January 5, 2024
A well-written primer that gives an insight into Pakistani society and its nuances. It discusses all the prejudices an average person holds about Pakistan - a highly radicalized society, extreme poverty, unstable politics, and a breeding ground for Jihadi terrorism. One can sense the feeling of hopeless optimism and empathy the author has about the country which is obvious considering she grew up in Pakistan herself. As the back-cover blurb states, the author gives an in-depth insight into the society at large and an average Pakistani mind using rigorous surveys, interview data, and historical narratives.
Starting from the normal populace's views and sympathy towards Jihadi terror groups to set a basic understanding of society, the book discusses the political history of Pakistan and its rapid Islamization under military dictatorship and finally takes a deep dive into the educational system of the country. This lengthy chapter brings forward the deeply troubling education system, where books are riddled with conspiracy theories and self-victimization which becomes all the more worrying for a country where every second person is illiterate. An education that is founded upon two major pillars - the 'evil West' and 'infidel India'. This chapter also brings to light the state of constant cognitive dissonance that exists in the mind of every Pakistani, relating to both politics and culture. The political dissonance is explained by the term 'Islamic democracy', a glaring oxymoron that can be found in the Pakistani Constitution while the cultural dissonance is apparent considering the rampant insurgency taking place in more than half the country for decades. The chapter on Jamiat groups and their control over madrasas highlights another political problem for the constitutional foundation of the country. An entire ecosystem of radical socio-political leaders with immense control over the society, hiding under the garb of Islam and religious intelligentsia, who act as the fuel for propagating terror groups.
However, throughout the book, the author's sense of optimism is not lost. The last chapter discusses ways for a brighter and more peaceful future, with suggestions on a way forward. The citizens, especially political leaders need to let go of selfish gains and work towards shifting the narrative of the country's basic foundation. The need for honest discussions on corruption and Jihadi terrorism, and most importantly a strong push for educational reforms. As the author says, all is not lost and there is still time for change.
All in all, the book is extremely well-researched and easy to read. A perfect read for someone wanting to know about Pakistan, its society, and its people from an empathetic point of view.
Starting from the normal populace's views and sympathy towards Jihadi terror groups to set a basic understanding of society, the book discusses the political history of Pakistan and its rapid Islamization under military dictatorship and finally takes a deep dive into the educational system of the country. This lengthy chapter brings forward the deeply troubling education system, where books are riddled with conspiracy theories and self-victimization which becomes all the more worrying for a country where every second person is illiterate. An education that is founded upon two major pillars - the 'evil West' and 'infidel India'. This chapter also brings to light the state of constant cognitive dissonance that exists in the mind of every Pakistani, relating to both politics and culture. The political dissonance is explained by the term 'Islamic democracy', a glaring oxymoron that can be found in the Pakistani Constitution while the cultural dissonance is apparent considering the rampant insurgency taking place in more than half the country for decades. The chapter on Jamiat groups and their control over madrasas highlights another political problem for the constitutional foundation of the country. An entire ecosystem of radical socio-political leaders with immense control over the society, hiding under the garb of Islam and religious intelligentsia, who act as the fuel for propagating terror groups.
However, throughout the book, the author's sense of optimism is not lost. The last chapter discusses ways for a brighter and more peaceful future, with suggestions on a way forward. The citizens, especially political leaders need to let go of selfish gains and work towards shifting the narrative of the country's basic foundation. The need for honest discussions on corruption and Jihadi terrorism, and most importantly a strong push for educational reforms. As the author says, all is not lost and there is still time for change.
All in all, the book is extremely well-researched and easy to read. A perfect read for someone wanting to know about Pakistan, its society, and its people from an empathetic point of view.
April 29, 2018
Benazir Bhutto had once referred to Pakistan as a ‘haven, the very petri-dish of international terrorism.’ She may have been exaggerating somewhat—her attempt was to criticize the military government of the country—but she was not far wrong. The CIA World Factbook page on Pakistan, for instance, lists ten major terrorist organizations that are based in Pakistan, and a further four which, while outlawed in Pakistan itself, thrive abroad and also operate within Pakistan. The latest edition of the Global Terrorism Index lists the country among the top five most affected by terrorism (Pakistan has figured in the top five in all editions of the Index since 2012, when it was first published).
Internationally, just about everybody equates Pakistan with terrorism. But what do Pakistanis themselves feel? How do they perceive terrorist organizations and their goals? What factors lead to extremism? What are the effects on terrorism (and its perception) of education, religion, and the state?
Madiha Afzal attempts to answer all of these questions, and more, in Pakistan under Siege: Extremism, Society and the State. Using surveys from various sources (most importantly, the Pew Research Center’s surveys) as well as her own research, Afzal presents data to examine various dimensions and aspects of Pakistan: its state, its connection with religion; its media and political narratives. She supports and explains these further with discussions on Pakistan’s history, its cultural and ethnic makeup, its political policies, and more. Examples—quotations from students, from school teachers, from people whom she interviewed—help take the book to a more personal level.
The result is an eye-opener. Much of the history and some of the more horrifying truths about Pakistan—the discriminatory blasphemy laws, for instance, or the shooting of Malala Yousafzai—may be familiar to most, but what Afzal sheds light on, too, are the lesser known facts. How the state controls and manipulates school curricula to present a skewed image of Pakistan vis-à-vis the world. How education, until university level, largely focuses on learning by rote. How terrorist organizations have won over the youth, and continue to do so. Afzal presents a startling, unnerving picture of a nation where liberal thought (and more, liberal voice) is increasingly in danger of being muffled. A nation where state, military, media, education, and religion are all part of a closely monitored, vicious behemoth that will brook no opposition.
For Indian readers, in particular, this is an interesting book because it shows us the inner workings of a nation which is (paradoxically, perhaps) closest to us in terms of culture, and yet our greatest enemy—if you were to buy into propaganda, that is. Pakistan under Siege also brings home (though possibly unintentionally) the fact that an India veering towards a Hindu rashtra is closer to an ‘Islamic state’ Pakistan than it could possibly imagine. The radicalism, the intolerance, the whipping up of anti-‘neighbouring nation’ frenzy: these sound all too familiar.
(From my review for The New Indian Express: http://www.newindianexpress.com/lifes...)
Internationally, just about everybody equates Pakistan with terrorism. But what do Pakistanis themselves feel? How do they perceive terrorist organizations and their goals? What factors lead to extremism? What are the effects on terrorism (and its perception) of education, religion, and the state?
Madiha Afzal attempts to answer all of these questions, and more, in Pakistan under Siege: Extremism, Society and the State. Using surveys from various sources (most importantly, the Pew Research Center’s surveys) as well as her own research, Afzal presents data to examine various dimensions and aspects of Pakistan: its state, its connection with religion; its media and political narratives. She supports and explains these further with discussions on Pakistan’s history, its cultural and ethnic makeup, its political policies, and more. Examples—quotations from students, from school teachers, from people whom she interviewed—help take the book to a more personal level.
The result is an eye-opener. Much of the history and some of the more horrifying truths about Pakistan—the discriminatory blasphemy laws, for instance, or the shooting of Malala Yousafzai—may be familiar to most, but what Afzal sheds light on, too, are the lesser known facts. How the state controls and manipulates school curricula to present a skewed image of Pakistan vis-à-vis the world. How education, until university level, largely focuses on learning by rote. How terrorist organizations have won over the youth, and continue to do so. Afzal presents a startling, unnerving picture of a nation where liberal thought (and more, liberal voice) is increasingly in danger of being muffled. A nation where state, military, media, education, and religion are all part of a closely monitored, vicious behemoth that will brook no opposition.
For Indian readers, in particular, this is an interesting book because it shows us the inner workings of a nation which is (paradoxically, perhaps) closest to us in terms of culture, and yet our greatest enemy—if you were to buy into propaganda, that is. Pakistan under Siege also brings home (though possibly unintentionally) the fact that an India veering towards a Hindu rashtra is closer to an ‘Islamic state’ Pakistan than it could possibly imagine. The radicalism, the intolerance, the whipping up of anti-‘neighbouring nation’ frenzy: these sound all too familiar.
(From my review for The New Indian Express: http://www.newindianexpress.com/lifes...)
February 27, 2019
A well-written and up to date book to comprehend contemporary challenges Pakistan is faced with. I agree with the writer that world history should be a compulsory subject. Changes in curricula should also be made and efforts should be made to enable students to think critically. Reforms in the education system are long overdue. We must reform the education system sooner the better.
The writes touches upon many areas of Pakistan since its inception in 1947 to contemporary times. A recommended read for people with interest in Pakistan/South Asian studies/history.
The writes touches upon many areas of Pakistan since its inception in 1947 to contemporary times. A recommended read for people with interest in Pakistan/South Asian studies/history.
June 2, 2021
I love books that are based on research and give ample backing to their claims. This book is one of those.
Madiha Afzal takes the help of Pew survey for the quantitative analysis. Various challenges Pakistan faced as a country since its inception are explained in a quite detailed manner.
The main focus is on youth and the Islamization of academia. If you have always been curious about why Pakistan behaves like Pakistan, this book will clear the clouds for you.
Madiha Afzal takes the help of Pew survey for the quantitative analysis. Various challenges Pakistan faced as a country since its inception are explained in a quite detailed manner.
The main focus is on youth and the Islamization of academia. If you have always been curious about why Pakistan behaves like Pakistan, this book will clear the clouds for you.
January 30, 2021
Mixed views on this book. I do agree with the writer’s pov on not just increasing education or making it accessible across the country but also providing quality, by making world history a compulsory subject in schools and making analytical thinking through discussions and debates common. That is something this country’s education system needs direly, specially the board system.
I also agree with her belief that extremism roots from Pakistan’s initial insecurity and comparison in economy and other things with India, and the fact that Zia’s rule hindered Pakistan’s growth massively, but the government, as it’s said in the last chapter of the book, needs to ‘demonstrate that they are upto the task if they have to assume control over security policy’ because currently they lack it. Each of our government’s goals were directed towards their personal selves and little attention was paid to Pakistan’s well being, and that’s the reason why army has to come in between to run things smoothly. The army is not to be hated for its role but appreciated because our politicians clearly lack control and knowledge. although there are also few arguments of the author that are non satisfactory and incomplete regardless our ill fate is that we are all brimming with nationalism for our country but have little guts to stand up against its enemies, the injustices that this country and its people face through the Islamists, their policies and protests and Talibans specially. The idea of who runs them and what is their ‘ultimate purpose’ is still unknown, even though the writer specified their stated goals but I don’t really think that’s the entire story, but anyways the Talibans are still the country’s enemies and actions - that make a solid difference - are necessary for it’s survival.
the biggest issue of the blasphemy laws need to be reformed too, and it was well talked about by the writer. That’s where differences arise and people find a loophole to act according to their ‘personal definitions of islam’.
in the end, i do hope, like the author said, that we fix it somehow, it’s not hard but it requires the steps that will bring definite change, not just apparent changes that are temporary and help in no way.
overall hard to digest but a knowledgeable and good read, because when it comes to Pakistan, we all have this tendency of getting protective- i don’t know where it stems from - but it undoubtedly exists and so we need a reality check, apart from the day-to-day news check. We all need to educate ourselves about what’s the true reality of the state of affairs so that we are able to find solutions to fix those issues.
I also agree with her belief that extremism roots from Pakistan’s initial insecurity and comparison in economy and other things with India, and the fact that Zia’s rule hindered Pakistan’s growth massively, but the government, as it’s said in the last chapter of the book, needs to ‘demonstrate that they are upto the task if they have to assume control over security policy’ because currently they lack it. Each of our government’s goals were directed towards their personal selves and little attention was paid to Pakistan’s well being, and that’s the reason why army has to come in between to run things smoothly. The army is not to be hated for its role but appreciated because our politicians clearly lack control and knowledge. although there are also few arguments of the author that are non satisfactory and incomplete regardless our ill fate is that we are all brimming with nationalism for our country but have little guts to stand up against its enemies, the injustices that this country and its people face through the Islamists, their policies and protests and Talibans specially. The idea of who runs them and what is their ‘ultimate purpose’ is still unknown, even though the writer specified their stated goals but I don’t really think that’s the entire story, but anyways the Talibans are still the country’s enemies and actions - that make a solid difference - are necessary for it’s survival.
the biggest issue of the blasphemy laws need to be reformed too, and it was well talked about by the writer. That’s where differences arise and people find a loophole to act according to their ‘personal definitions of islam’.
in the end, i do hope, like the author said, that we fix it somehow, it’s not hard but it requires the steps that will bring definite change, not just apparent changes that are temporary and help in no way.
overall hard to digest but a knowledgeable and good read, because when it comes to Pakistan, we all have this tendency of getting protective- i don’t know where it stems from - but it undoubtedly exists and so we need a reality check, apart from the day-to-day news check. We all need to educate ourselves about what’s the true reality of the state of affairs so that we are able to find solutions to fix those issues.
January 18, 2021
A brief, precise and to the point account of some of the reasons behind the current attitude towards extremism in Pakistan. Use of stats makes it even more effective. The narratives are accurate, but the way the argument has been built is not very impressive. One of the major setbacks of the book is its Leftist tone which in itself isn't something to be complained but it affects the objectivity of the argument and all the different dimensions touched in the book.
Then the most important thing to discuss is the over-simplified solutions presented to highly complex multi-dimensional problem that has its roots in many aspects of an average Pakistani's life.
Plus in some chapters the approach is very alienated which simply ignores many important cultural, socio-religious reasons for certain narratives.
Overall, it is a good book but the arguments and solutions presented and over-simplified and flawed at a few instances.
Then the most important thing to discuss is the over-simplified solutions presented to highly complex multi-dimensional problem that has its roots in many aspects of an average Pakistani's life.
Plus in some chapters the approach is very alienated which simply ignores many important cultural, socio-religious reasons for certain narratives.
Overall, it is a good book but the arguments and solutions presented and over-simplified and flawed at a few instances.
August 4, 2018
Excellent analysis. Madiha Afzal is somehow both concise and comprehensive. There is a fear that in taking too liberal an interpretation one might miss the essence of a relatively conservative country, but Afzal carefully balances analysis with prescription. The chapter on education is a must-read for all policy enthusiasts.
May 20, 2025
3.5/5 Ayn Rand's "Fountainhead" contains an iconic scene.
"Mr. Roark, we’re alone here. Why don’t you tell me what you think of me? In any words you wish. No one will hear us.”
Roark replies - “But I don’t think of you.”
Dear Pakistan, we think of you only when you are a nuisance to us.
----------------------------------------------------------
In his Islamic Exceptionalism: How the Struggle Over Islam Is Reshaping the World,
Shadi Hamid wrote the same things as the "far-right" "Islamophobic" European politicians - Muslim-majority societies are incompatible with modern democratic values like secularism, gender equality, liberalism and LGBTQ rights and I would add rejection of racism. (I will explain the basis for this). Only difference is that he did this as an apologist and with empathy - that different standards be applied to Muslim-majority countries (and to Muslims by logical extension). A small irony btw is that Shadi Hamid himself chose to emigrate to USA like many of his co-religionists.
----------------------------------------------------------
For me, this book reaches the same conclusion although the route taken is no-nonsense criticism of Pakistan as a whole while staying empathetic. The author cites a no. of surveys to show how attitudes of ordinary Pakistanis on pairs of related issues are in stark contradiction - terrorism is bad but terrorism against India (or non-Muslims) is good. Violence against civilians is bad but it is ok if done in the name of religion. Blasphemy against Islam is punishable but criticising and mocking other religions is ok. Protests must be done in support of Muslims worldwide, but stay silent when non-Muslims are victimised by Muslims. Oh, wait that cannot happen. They literally reject the notion of any Muslim wrongdoing. That is racism and dehumanisation of non-Muslims if the words mean anything.
----------------------------------------------------------
To me the core problem is the Pakistani Muslim belief in infallibility of their religion. And the detestation and dehumanisation of the others. Everything stems from these two ideas.
These two paradigms pervade deeply in every aspect of Pakistani Muslim life. To the extent that they are unable to see any problems with their thought-processes at all !
The author's focus is on education, to me the core issue to solve first has always been removing punishment for blasphemy - any criticism of any part of Islam is punished violently. To the silly extent that even any attempt to amend the blasphemy law is considered blasphemy. And a non-Muslim was defined by Pakistani Parliament in 1974 as someone advocating religious reforms (in Islam). So reform seems impossible when even the mere mention of the word gets you killed as an apostate in Pakistan.
----------------------------------------------------------
Dear Pakistan,
You can indeed have your religious utopia-land. Look at the examples of Taliban's closed regime. Good luck. We only think of you when you are a nuisance.
----------------------------------------------------------
PS:- "Yes, according to my religion and creed, I do hold an adulterous and a fallen Musalman (Muslim) to be better than Mr. (Mahatma) Gandhi."
-Muhammad Ali , one of the tallest Muslim leaders of undivided India and a colleague of Gandhi in the 1910s-1920s - this was also quoted by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar who had no love lost for the Mahatma. And Ali backed his statement till the end.
"Mr. Roark, we’re alone here. Why don’t you tell me what you think of me? In any words you wish. No one will hear us.”
Roark replies - “But I don’t think of you.”
Dear Pakistan, we think of you only when you are a nuisance to us.
----------------------------------------------------------
In his Islamic Exceptionalism: How the Struggle Over Islam Is Reshaping the World,
Shadi Hamid wrote the same things as the "far-right" "Islamophobic" European politicians - Muslim-majority societies are incompatible with modern democratic values like secularism, gender equality, liberalism and LGBTQ rights and I would add rejection of racism. (I will explain the basis for this). Only difference is that he did this as an apologist and with empathy - that different standards be applied to Muslim-majority countries (and to Muslims by logical extension). A small irony btw is that Shadi Hamid himself chose to emigrate to USA like many of his co-religionists.
----------------------------------------------------------
For me, this book reaches the same conclusion although the route taken is no-nonsense criticism of Pakistan as a whole while staying empathetic. The author cites a no. of surveys to show how attitudes of ordinary Pakistanis on pairs of related issues are in stark contradiction - terrorism is bad but terrorism against India (or non-Muslims) is good. Violence against civilians is bad but it is ok if done in the name of religion. Blasphemy against Islam is punishable but criticising and mocking other religions is ok. Protests must be done in support of Muslims worldwide, but stay silent when non-Muslims are victimised by Muslims. Oh, wait that cannot happen. They literally reject the notion of any Muslim wrongdoing. That is racism and dehumanisation of non-Muslims if the words mean anything.
----------------------------------------------------------
To me the core problem is the Pakistani Muslim belief in infallibility of their religion. And the detestation and dehumanisation of the others. Everything stems from these two ideas.
These two paradigms pervade deeply in every aspect of Pakistani Muslim life. To the extent that they are unable to see any problems with their thought-processes at all !
The author's focus is on education, to me the core issue to solve first has always been removing punishment for blasphemy - any criticism of any part of Islam is punished violently. To the silly extent that even any attempt to amend the blasphemy law is considered blasphemy. And a non-Muslim was defined by Pakistani Parliament in 1974 as someone advocating religious reforms (in Islam). So reform seems impossible when even the mere mention of the word gets you killed as an apostate in Pakistan.
----------------------------------------------------------
Dear Pakistan,
You can indeed have your religious utopia-land. Look at the examples of Taliban's closed regime. Good luck. We only think of you when you are a nuisance.
----------------------------------------------------------
PS:- "Yes, according to my religion and creed, I do hold an adulterous and a fallen Musalman (Muslim) to be better than Mr. (Mahatma) Gandhi."
-Muhammad Ali , one of the tallest Muslim leaders of undivided India and a colleague of Gandhi in the 1910s-1920s - this was also quoted by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar who had no love lost for the Mahatma. And Ali backed his statement till the end.
February 8, 2020
After 9/11, Pakistan had been sensationalized as a victim or a perpetrator of the terrorism in the international media. More often, as a perpetrator. Pakistan had kept a persistent place in the international headlines for one reason or other. Amongst, the constant one was-terrorism. The world looked at Pakistan as dangerous, radical and extremist country for a decade. The West, characterized the citizens of Pakistan as irrational fundamentalists and extremists. The villainous painting of Pakistan and its citizens had proved to be a paranoia of the world about Pakistan. The paradoxical image of Pakistan had left the economy of Pakistan in tatters and its polity distorted.
The book, “Pakistan Under Siege: Extremism, Society and the State” is a well-balanced and thoughtful account of extremism in Pakistan. The author, Madiha Afzal is U.S based scholar. Who focuses on law, education and Islamists. Those who are interested in terrorism and its links with Pakistan will find this slim volume as a well-researched and succinct a mindful reading.
The author, uses evidence based approach in the book. She uses opinion polls, in-depth interviews (in universities and schools), history, political and anecdotal events. She explains and portrays a multifaceted picture of Pakistan’s relationship with extremism. Author addresses these questions in the book. What factors drive Pakistanis to anti-America narrative? Why do they consider India as a greatest threat? Why do they suffer from a national sense of victimhood?
In the early portions of the book, the author takes up the task to explain the individual’s attitudes towards extremism. She answers the question: Are ordinary Pakistanis are radicals? She uses survey data to show how do the citizens think about militant groups such as Pakistan Tehreek e Taliban (TTP), Afghan Taliban (AT) and Al Qaeda. Where views about TTP and the militant groups who do not attack Pakistani civilian including Afghan Taliban and Al Qaeda are unfavorable. Amongst, unfavorably about TTP is very high and views about Afghan Taliban and Al Qaeda are mixed. Yet Views about anti-India organizations such as Lashkar e Taiba (LeT) and Jaish e Muhammad (JeM) are muddied. She concludes that the majority of the Pakistanis are opposed to terrorism and extremism.
Author further goes on to delve into the reasons behind Pakistani state’s dependence on Islam to define its identity. She discusses post partition different political events and regimes. Especially, Zia’s Islamization and fostering the monster of militancy in the form of jihadists, blasphemy laws, draconian punishments and state created militant seminaries. Zia mainstreamed the extremists and the Islamists lacking the political legitimacy. The miscalculations and radical policies brought drastic ramifications.
The most interesting analysis of the book shows that how does the curricula shape the minds of students. She writes Zia’s regime directed the authors of Pakistan Studies textbooks “to demonstrate that the basis of Pakistan is not to be founded in racial, linguistic, or geographical factors, but rather, in the shared experience of a common religion. To get students know and appreciate the Ideology of Pakistan, and to popularize it with slogans. To guide students towards the ultimate goal of Pakistan- The creation of a completely Islamized State.” The author got herself engaged in the discussions on extremism with different students. Where she receives different narratives including economic reasons, foreign influences, American conspiracy and India’s paranoia. Most surprisingly, the high school respondents in different polls are more favorable towards Afghan Taliban and anti-India and anti-America militant organizations. She considers the ideological nature of syllabus and west conspiracy paranoia taught in the schools, is the reason for such acceptance of radical outlook.
She concludes the book with couple of suggestions as a way forward for the Pakistani State. She states that it shifting its narrative, Pakistan must first self-examine. It needs to have an open, honest discussion about extremism. Secondly, it must have discussions over the interpretations of Islam that relates to the extremism and the elements in its legal system that format it. Thirdly, it must make it clear no citizen or an institution has right to adjudicate the religiosity. Fourthly, it must revamp the education system to encourage the students towards critical thinking and also suggests the world history as a subject must be taught in the schools.
Finally, the book is mandatory reading for the ones who want to understand the attitude of Pakistanis towards extremism, and the ramifications of Islamization. It is a well- researched, lucid and most importantly unbiased effort to analyze the roots of extremism in the Pakistani society.
November 12, 2021
Pakistan, known for its extremism and terrorism all over the world, is under siege. After supporting the Afghan mujahedeen in Soviet-Afghan war during 70s and 80s, Pakistan has actually produced an indestructible enemy [Islamic extremists] for itself and for the world. At the same time, Pakistan is using the enemy for its own advantage too by fighting against India. This enemy is continuously fed up by the state’s constitution, education curricula, religious seminaries, blasphemy laws, the state policies and narratives.
There are three major actors who are carrying on the whole play, included: Military leadership, civilian leadership and Islamists parties. Pakistan’s military and civilian leaders always use the Islamist parties and terror groups for their own benefit and, in return, they use the state. Because of the long-standing combat between civilian government and military leaders, Civilians uses major Islamists parties such JUI-F and JI to strengthen themselves in their seats while military uses terrorists and extremists to cause instability in country in order to stay dominant and the Islamist parties, the third actor, work for their own interests that is to spread pure codes of Islam and to enforce Sharia.
Besides this, the biased curricula and faulty school culture, the former one indoctrinates students against America, India and Israel, instructs them to do Jihad, and feed them a false record of history and the latter one is based on rote learning, accepting things without questioning and discussing them in the class, especially, till intermediate levels, are extremely disagreeable.
Dr. Afzal has taken an elaborate, holistic and realistic view of the Pakistan, from its inception till to date, in becoming a center of terrorists and extremists, the role of military and Islamist forces in it, the damage it caused and the way to get rid of it. A must-read book for understanding Pakistan internal dynamics on grassroots level.
There are three major actors who are carrying on the whole play, included: Military leadership, civilian leadership and Islamists parties. Pakistan’s military and civilian leaders always use the Islamist parties and terror groups for their own benefit and, in return, they use the state. Because of the long-standing combat between civilian government and military leaders, Civilians uses major Islamists parties such JUI-F and JI to strengthen themselves in their seats while military uses terrorists and extremists to cause instability in country in order to stay dominant and the Islamist parties, the third actor, work for their own interests that is to spread pure codes of Islam and to enforce Sharia.
Besides this, the biased curricula and faulty school culture, the former one indoctrinates students against America, India and Israel, instructs them to do Jihad, and feed them a false record of history and the latter one is based on rote learning, accepting things without questioning and discussing them in the class, especially, till intermediate levels, are extremely disagreeable.
Dr. Afzal has taken an elaborate, holistic and realistic view of the Pakistan, from its inception till to date, in becoming a center of terrorists and extremists, the role of military and Islamist forces in it, the damage it caused and the way to get rid of it. A must-read book for understanding Pakistan internal dynamics on grassroots level.
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May 16, 2022Madiha Afzal is a Brookings fellow in the foreign policy program, and her book Pakistan under Siege was released in 2018 by the Brookings Institute Press. Madiha's study focuses on Pakistan, Afghanistan, America and the nexus of political economy, development, and security. The author in her book focus on the common folk attitude on terrorist organization, on jihad, religious minorities, blasphemy law and on America. The methodological approach is novel where she used rigorous analysis, interviews, surveys, and historical narrative, where she discuss Pakistan relationship with extremism. In her view most of the work on extremism in Pakistan is from one limited top to bottom security perspective, limited to the action of the state with little focus on how those actions affect the ordinary Pakistani.
Are ordinary Pakistani extremist? So she start from a positive number the 89 % says that violence in the name of Islam against civilian is never justified. The favorability percentage range from 9% for TTP and 14% (2015) for LeT. While views become much more unfavorable when Pakistan itself become target of the terror_ APS attack .In her view the root of attitude is really the Pakistani state, they have not emerged in a vacuum _ the Pakistani sate have defined itself interim of two pillars & those are the reliance of itself as an Islamic state and a state that has an existential paranoia of its neighbor at the east. The continued Spector of conflict with India keeps Pakistan in a permanent militarized sate the security agencies constantly rollback any shift in the central paradigm of Pakistan because they derive sustenance from the fact that Pakistan as a state an opposition to India The fact Pakistan defining itself in terms of Islam and anti-India has led to the dominance of its army. This is not done because of an ideological committed to religion but because Pakistan relied on Islam as part of its nationalist project as a part of the need to unite its different ethnicities as a part of the need to be different and defend itself from India.These pillars have defined state policy and attitude of the people _ have led ta a regressive form of Islamization in Pakistan and this is done through state narrative on militants group, laws put in place & as well as the education system. At time the state leave the culprit unidentified in the illusion to conspiracy after terror attack despite claim’s and responsibility of terrorist groups. The one event that cemented the Pakistan’s Islamic, anti-India narrative was the loss of east part, which convinced the weakened state that its ethnic diversity was a threat & the cultivation of singular identity based on the only unifier it perceived – Islam- was the way forward.
She shows how regressive Pakistani laws instituted in the 1980s deteriorated citizen attitudes and led to vigilante and mob violence Zia controlled Pakistan with an iron fist and mercilessly used Islam for political and strategic goals. No Pakistani leader to date has relied on religion as heavily as Zia, his 1984 referendum to extend his rule as a referendum on Islam. His most disastrous legacy was his role in the anti-Soviet Afghan war, which was funded and supported by the United States and Saudi Arabia. He entered others war to achieve "strategic depth," not to boost the struggle against communism. The Afghan resistance to Soviet occupation was framed as a religious jihad, its fighters were called as mujahedeen, and they were armed with ideology as well as guns; the arm opposition was purposefully mixed with Islam. He also altered Pakistan's legal system, which had several rules that were discriminatory at best and brutal at worst.
The legal Islamization start from with the object resolution, the repugnancy article of 1956 constitution while it guarantee the rights of all religions (Article 18)- citizens had freedom to profess , practice and propagate any religion and the right to established, maintain and managed which was changed in the 80’s. The author examines the bombast and the strategic actions of three actors in Pakistani politics—the military, the civilian governments, and the Islamist parties—and their relationships with militant groups. The author also explains Pakistan ideological education, the history one sided leading to independence, Muslims described as the victims of the evil collusion between the congress and the British, the Muslims are portrayed as good, their intention always sincere & the other side as opposite. The text book also invoked jihad to describe wars against India post partition educational educational regime has become a vital element in shaping citizens’ thinking. How many years one attends school, whether the school is public, private, or a madrassa, and what curricula is followed all affect Pakistanis’ attitudes about terrorism and the rest of the world. The Detail explanation of role of key stake holders of the state, fundamentalist parties, and the effect of curriculum compels the reader to read the book effectively.
In last chapters – the way forward Madiha ask can the dysfunctional state can be remedied.
She is hopeful that we should redefine our ideological narratives because it that time we have nothing except religion to unite the people, but now some sought of interaction is developed between the common folk. Students should be taught how to critically elevate multiple source of information so that they are not attracted by conspiracy theories Younger generations are broadly more favorable towards terrorist so reconstruction of curriculum should be done particularly related to Pakistan study & world history should be included as a core subject madrassa reform and regulation and reconstruction of relation with Islamist parties are to be done and the state should affiliate the moderate one with itself .Lastly the state army should stop religious justification for wars.
Are ordinary Pakistani extremist? So she start from a positive number the 89 % says that violence in the name of Islam against civilian is never justified. The favorability percentage range from 9% for TTP and 14% (2015) for LeT. While views become much more unfavorable when Pakistan itself become target of the terror_ APS attack .In her view the root of attitude is really the Pakistani state, they have not emerged in a vacuum _ the Pakistani sate have defined itself interim of two pillars & those are the reliance of itself as an Islamic state and a state that has an existential paranoia of its neighbor at the east. The continued Spector of conflict with India keeps Pakistan in a permanent militarized sate the security agencies constantly rollback any shift in the central paradigm of Pakistan because they derive sustenance from the fact that Pakistan as a state an opposition to India The fact Pakistan defining itself in terms of Islam and anti-India has led to the dominance of its army. This is not done because of an ideological committed to religion but because Pakistan relied on Islam as part of its nationalist project as a part of the need to unite its different ethnicities as a part of the need to be different and defend itself from India.These pillars have defined state policy and attitude of the people _ have led ta a regressive form of Islamization in Pakistan and this is done through state narrative on militants group, laws put in place & as well as the education system. At time the state leave the culprit unidentified in the illusion to conspiracy after terror attack despite claim’s and responsibility of terrorist groups. The one event that cemented the Pakistan’s Islamic, anti-India narrative was the loss of east part, which convinced the weakened state that its ethnic diversity was a threat & the cultivation of singular identity based on the only unifier it perceived – Islam- was the way forward.
She shows how regressive Pakistani laws instituted in the 1980s deteriorated citizen attitudes and led to vigilante and mob violence Zia controlled Pakistan with an iron fist and mercilessly used Islam for political and strategic goals. No Pakistani leader to date has relied on religion as heavily as Zia, his 1984 referendum to extend his rule as a referendum on Islam. His most disastrous legacy was his role in the anti-Soviet Afghan war, which was funded and supported by the United States and Saudi Arabia. He entered others war to achieve "strategic depth," not to boost the struggle against communism. The Afghan resistance to Soviet occupation was framed as a religious jihad, its fighters were called as mujahedeen, and they were armed with ideology as well as guns; the arm opposition was purposefully mixed with Islam. He also altered Pakistan's legal system, which had several rules that were discriminatory at best and brutal at worst.
The legal Islamization start from with the object resolution, the repugnancy article of 1956 constitution while it guarantee the rights of all religions (Article 18)- citizens had freedom to profess , practice and propagate any religion and the right to established, maintain and managed which was changed in the 80’s. The author examines the bombast and the strategic actions of three actors in Pakistani politics—the military, the civilian governments, and the Islamist parties—and their relationships with militant groups. The author also explains Pakistan ideological education, the history one sided leading to independence, Muslims described as the victims of the evil collusion between the congress and the British, the Muslims are portrayed as good, their intention always sincere & the other side as opposite. The text book also invoked jihad to describe wars against India post partition educational educational regime has become a vital element in shaping citizens’ thinking. How many years one attends school, whether the school is public, private, or a madrassa, and what curricula is followed all affect Pakistanis’ attitudes about terrorism and the rest of the world. The Detail explanation of role of key stake holders of the state, fundamentalist parties, and the effect of curriculum compels the reader to read the book effectively.
In last chapters – the way forward Madiha ask can the dysfunctional state can be remedied.
She is hopeful that we should redefine our ideological narratives because it that time we have nothing except religion to unite the people, but now some sought of interaction is developed between the common folk. Students should be taught how to critically elevate multiple source of information so that they are not attracted by conspiracy theories Younger generations are broadly more favorable towards terrorist so reconstruction of curriculum should be done particularly related to Pakistan study & world history should be included as a core subject madrassa reform and regulation and reconstruction of relation with Islamist parties are to be done and the state should affiliate the moderate one with itself .Lastly the state army should stop religious justification for wars.
October 19, 2019
Pakistan is under siege since its inception. Sometimes predators are politicians, elites or civil and military bureaucrats while, on the other time , they are religiously inspired fanatic people. In the book "Pakistan under siege" a gentle view of extremism in a narrow society of Pakistan has been given in a lucid language. Madiha Afzal conducted many interviews herself before putting down an analysis of all the happenings on paper. The book actually tells what people of Pakistan think about extremism and extremists and also suggests some ways to root out the menace of extremism from the country.
December 13, 2020
Always thought that why Pakistani culture, its way of thinking, lack of debate, and a fear to question two most powerful/influential/authoritarian institutions i.e. military and Islamic groups is the way it is. Madiha afzal in this book did more than enough to describe the root causes and the extent to which they are engraved in our society, in our educational system and our thinking process as a nation. She didn't just propagated anti-radicalization and anti-militarization ideas.....she supported her debate with data....a scientific approach of a scientific mind.....she followed it and she wants the readers to follow that too.
October 26, 2019
Book Review💥
Pakistan under Siege by Madiha Afzal
Pakistan under Siege is a well-balanced and an important book about the understanding of Pakistan. She describes the roots of extremism as well as many other challenges that Pakistan is facing. It's a well researched and well-written book. She describes how "PAKISTAN'S LEGAL ISLAMIZATION" and "IDEOLOGICAL EDUCATION" had changed the narrative of people about their fellow countrymen, about India and about USA. It's a must read book if you want to root out the causes Extremism in Pakistan.
Pakistan under Siege by Madiha Afzal
Pakistan under Siege is a well-balanced and an important book about the understanding of Pakistan. She describes the roots of extremism as well as many other challenges that Pakistan is facing. It's a well researched and well-written book. She describes how "PAKISTAN'S LEGAL ISLAMIZATION" and "IDEOLOGICAL EDUCATION" had changed the narrative of people about their fellow countrymen, about India and about USA. It's a must read book if you want to root out the causes Extremism in Pakistan.
June 17, 2018
H
ow do Pakistanis think? Have they really been as radicalised as it is commonly believed? How do they feel about India and the United States? Are things getting better in that country? These are among the many questions writer and academic Madiha Afzal attempts to address in her book “Pakistan Under Siege”.
The title is a little cliched; Pakistan many believe has been this way for decades and much has been written on the subject. Nothing seems to change: the world purses its lips while Pakistan carries on in its trail of destruction, churning out terrorists, suicide bombers and radicalised clergy from its assembly line madrassahs thriving under state patronage.
Where Afzal’s book is different is in its empirical approach. The author uses “rigorous analysis of survey data, in-depth interviews in schools and universities in Pakistan, historical narrative reporting, and her own intuitive understanding of the country” to provide what is hopefully an authentic view of how Pakistanis feel about terrorism, jihad, non-Muslims and their place in the world.
What emerges in her narrative is the role the Pakistani state, particularly the military, has played in fostering an atmosphere conducive to religious extremism and ultimately terrorism. The Pakistan military, Afzal argues, considers its vital duty to be two-fold: defending the country’s territorial integrity as well as its ideological frontiers.
“On its official website, the army states its motto:’ Imam, taqwa, jihad fi-sibilillah.’ Imam is faith, taqwa is piety and fear of God, and jihad means to fight for God,” the author points out. It is this basic belief coupled with the notion of India being its prime and implacable enemy that has scripted the grand national strategy pursued by Pakistan’s rulers, most of them Army generals.
She further believes it is in the Pakistan military’s interest to constantly play up the “Indian threat” and is one reason why terrorists are seen as assets in the jihad against India. Even though the Pakistan Army has cracked down on domestic terrorists in recent times, it differentiates “between those militants it believes pose a direct threat to the Pakistani state (the TTP) and those it believes are of strategic use to it (the Afghan Taliban and LeT) - the ‘bad Taliban’ versus the ‘good Taliban’.”
The Pakistan Army is extremely sensitive about its “good Taliban” assets and the author recounts how incensed the Army was when a prominent journalist published an article in October 2016 about “an unprecedented showdown between Shahbaz Sharif, chief minister of Punjab and brother of Nawaz Sharif, and the head of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), in which the civilians asked the ISI to end the protection it gives to Kashmiri and Afghan jihadists.”
The Army termed the matter as a threat to national security while the journalist who wrote the piece was banned from travelling. A military enquiry into the episode was initiated and this probably marked the beginning of yet another feud between the Pakistan Army and the Sharif brothers - not surprisingly Nawaz Sharif has effectively been banished from politics.
What is worse perhaps is the Pakistan military’s strategy of propagating the myth about Islam in danger. Legal Islamisation by General Zia, Afzal writes, made matters worse. The late dictator General Zia set in motion a process to ideologically indoctrinate future generations of Pakistanis by establishing Pakistani studies which was aimed at instilling the idea that Pakistan was formed on the basis of one common religion and guiding students towards “the ultimate goal of a completely Islamized state.”
The author’s account of what Pakistan studies teach makes for dismal reading and it is no wonder then that surveys today indicate a significant support for terrorist groups among students - ten to twenty per cent for the Pakistan Taliban (TTP) and somewhat more for the Lashkar e Taiba. The lower the education level the more the support for terrorists.
Views on India are even more discouraging: more than 50 per cent view India unfavourably. The United States fares even worse as is to be expected given the jihadist narrative. Most frightening is students’ view on apostasy: the overwhelming majority favours the death penalty for leaving Islam.
Pakistanis seem to be increasingly veering towards hard-line views regarding Islam. The author describes how a series of terrorist acts including the 2016 suicide attack on Sehwan Sharif, the famed Sufi shrine, and assassination of Pakistan’s most famous qawwali singer, Amjad Sabri, closed “the loop between Pakistan’s laws, its narrowing constrains of acceptable religious practice, and terrorism.”
“And while hundreds protested in outrage and grief after Sehwan and blamed the state, ordinary citizens also murmured about how visits to shrines and dhamaal were un-Islamic. Thus the ordinary Pakistani ventured into casual, dangerous takfirism - accusations against other Muslims of apostasy deserving death - their indoctrination in evidence.”
“The loop between terrorism, the narrowing bounds of religion, and Pakistan’s own laws was completed in another way”, Afzal observes. ”Pakistan’s own citizens justified terrorist attacks against their fellow countrymen - and they could call on the blasphemy laws and an extreme interpretation of their religion, validated by the Pakistani state, for justification.”
Indranil Banerjie
12 June 2018
ow do Pakistanis think? Have they really been as radicalised as it is commonly believed? How do they feel about India and the United States? Are things getting better in that country? These are among the many questions writer and academic Madiha Afzal attempts to address in her book “Pakistan Under Siege”.
The title is a little cliched; Pakistan many believe has been this way for decades and much has been written on the subject. Nothing seems to change: the world purses its lips while Pakistan carries on in its trail of destruction, churning out terrorists, suicide bombers and radicalised clergy from its assembly line madrassahs thriving under state patronage.
Where Afzal’s book is different is in its empirical approach. The author uses “rigorous analysis of survey data, in-depth interviews in schools and universities in Pakistan, historical narrative reporting, and her own intuitive understanding of the country” to provide what is hopefully an authentic view of how Pakistanis feel about terrorism, jihad, non-Muslims and their place in the world.
What emerges in her narrative is the role the Pakistani state, particularly the military, has played in fostering an atmosphere conducive to religious extremism and ultimately terrorism. The Pakistan military, Afzal argues, considers its vital duty to be two-fold: defending the country’s territorial integrity as well as its ideological frontiers.
“On its official website, the army states its motto:’ Imam, taqwa, jihad fi-sibilillah.’ Imam is faith, taqwa is piety and fear of God, and jihad means to fight for God,” the author points out. It is this basic belief coupled with the notion of India being its prime and implacable enemy that has scripted the grand national strategy pursued by Pakistan’s rulers, most of them Army generals.
She further believes it is in the Pakistan military’s interest to constantly play up the “Indian threat” and is one reason why terrorists are seen as assets in the jihad against India. Even though the Pakistan Army has cracked down on domestic terrorists in recent times, it differentiates “between those militants it believes pose a direct threat to the Pakistani state (the TTP) and those it believes are of strategic use to it (the Afghan Taliban and LeT) - the ‘bad Taliban’ versus the ‘good Taliban’.”
The Pakistan Army is extremely sensitive about its “good Taliban” assets and the author recounts how incensed the Army was when a prominent journalist published an article in October 2016 about “an unprecedented showdown between Shahbaz Sharif, chief minister of Punjab and brother of Nawaz Sharif, and the head of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), in which the civilians asked the ISI to end the protection it gives to Kashmiri and Afghan jihadists.”
The Army termed the matter as a threat to national security while the journalist who wrote the piece was banned from travelling. A military enquiry into the episode was initiated and this probably marked the beginning of yet another feud between the Pakistan Army and the Sharif brothers - not surprisingly Nawaz Sharif has effectively been banished from politics.
What is worse perhaps is the Pakistan military’s strategy of propagating the myth about Islam in danger. Legal Islamisation by General Zia, Afzal writes, made matters worse. The late dictator General Zia set in motion a process to ideologically indoctrinate future generations of Pakistanis by establishing Pakistani studies which was aimed at instilling the idea that Pakistan was formed on the basis of one common religion and guiding students towards “the ultimate goal of a completely Islamized state.”
The author’s account of what Pakistan studies teach makes for dismal reading and it is no wonder then that surveys today indicate a significant support for terrorist groups among students - ten to twenty per cent for the Pakistan Taliban (TTP) and somewhat more for the Lashkar e Taiba. The lower the education level the more the support for terrorists.
Views on India are even more discouraging: more than 50 per cent view India unfavourably. The United States fares even worse as is to be expected given the jihadist narrative. Most frightening is students’ view on apostasy: the overwhelming majority favours the death penalty for leaving Islam.
Pakistanis seem to be increasingly veering towards hard-line views regarding Islam. The author describes how a series of terrorist acts including the 2016 suicide attack on Sehwan Sharif, the famed Sufi shrine, and assassination of Pakistan’s most famous qawwali singer, Amjad Sabri, closed “the loop between Pakistan’s laws, its narrowing constrains of acceptable religious practice, and terrorism.”
“And while hundreds protested in outrage and grief after Sehwan and blamed the state, ordinary citizens also murmured about how visits to shrines and dhamaal were un-Islamic. Thus the ordinary Pakistani ventured into casual, dangerous takfirism - accusations against other Muslims of apostasy deserving death - their indoctrination in evidence.”
“The loop between terrorism, the narrowing bounds of religion, and Pakistan’s own laws was completed in another way”, Afzal observes. ”Pakistan’s own citizens justified terrorist attacks against their fellow countrymen - and they could call on the blasphemy laws and an extreme interpretation of their religion, validated by the Pakistani state, for justification.”
Indranil Banerjie
12 June 2018
May 7, 2020
Portrays a quite detailed picture of the extremist processes that are in place in the country. I particularly liked the author’s emphasis on the education system of the country, the emergence of madrasas system and the influence they exercise on the youth- radicalising them, pushing them to adopt stringent versions of Islam. All these factors ultimately contribute to a space where there is minimum level of tolerance and an utter disregard for plurality and freedom.
May 25, 2019
A book that supports facts with the numbers.
Most of the topics and problems discussed in this book are true and depicts reality of our society being Muslims and our attitudes towards different militant groups.
And How the Pakistani's forced to absorb the Pakistan's ideology through power and mind games.
Most of the topics and problems discussed in this book are true and depicts reality of our society being Muslims and our attitudes towards different militant groups.
And How the Pakistani's forced to absorb the Pakistan's ideology through power and mind games.
January 30, 2020
The book is an account of Pakistani turbulent history and path towards where it stands today. Writing style has earned her three stars as the contents of book indicates writer’s pre conceived mind with very limited research being done. The book doesn’t contribute at all towards subject of the book.
Reading any book is never a waste of time but it’s silly to pick up such ones.
Reading any book is never a waste of time but it’s silly to pick up such ones.
September 6, 2019
A very poorly written and superficial book. The writer lacks depth and presents clichéd opinions of many western propagandists as her own. You can imagine the quality of this book by the fact that the writer does not even know the difference between TTP and the Afghan Taliban.
August 21, 2020
Nicely explained book with backing of multiple surveys and researches. Compilation of Pakistan’s extremism and people’s attitudes makes it a good read. Only flaw is too much reliance on the education which ignores other parameters for terrorism.
June 12, 2021
The author is biased. She didn't mentioned indian influence on balochistan and she also didn't said anything about the influence of US on pakistan internal issues.
April 29, 2022
𝗣𝗔𝗞𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗡 𝗨𝗡𝗗𝗘𝗥 𝗦𝗜𝗘𝗚𝗘: 𝘌𝘟𝘛𝘙𝘐𝘔𝘐𝘚𝘔, 𝘚𝘖𝘊𝘐𝘌𝘛𝘠, 𝘈𝘕𝘋 𝘛𝘏𝘌 𝘚𝘛𝘈𝘛𝘌.
𝗌𝖺𝗆𝗆𝖺𝗋𝗒:
In the first couple of chapters writer, Madiha Afzal explains the creation of different terrorist organisations in Pakistan and Afghanistan after the Soviet invasion and the attitudes of the Pakistani people towards these terrorist organisations, with her research-based stats. The next chapter gives a detailed rational recount of the legal Islamization of Pakistan since its creation. she criticised the anti-Ahmadi doctrines, the blasphemy laws and their impacts on society, the marginalisation of minorities, and other key Islamic provisions of the Constitution of Pakistan. she argues that these Islamic provisions in the Constitution, give legitimacy to the extremist's radical Ideology of Islam and sharia and restricts government from taking a practical(secular) counter-narrative.
In the next couple of chapters, she gives a detailed illustration of the role of education in spreading and evoking extremism. she criticised both school and the madrassa system of education. With the help of her research stats, she argued that the madrassa students are more prone to extremism than school students. she heavily criticised the syllabus and the rote system of learning, and the system of examination which doesn't develop critical thinking and analytical skills in students. She showed how it evokes extremism in children from the very early stages of their education. And finally, she gives her suggestions to cope with these core issues faced by Pakistan.
𝖱𝖤𝖵𝖨𝖤𝖶:
It's a research-based book. I love this type of books but I have mixed views about this book. I think her criticism of our education system is more than justified, we need serious reforms in our education system. The parallels she draws between education, state, society and extremism are incredible. Her interpretation of history is based on facts but a bit oversimplified. The way she tries to completely exclude India, America and global and regional power politics from terrorism in Pakistan is also very absurd. She also focuses too much on educational reforms and curriculum that she almost ignored the ethnopolitical and socio-economic reasons for extremism. Throughout the book, she indoctrinates the idea of secular Pakistan, which is also debatable. Finally, some of the solutions she gave to the issue of extremism are mostly unrealistic and can't be implemented.
But overall it's a good read. It'll help to understand the current situation in Pakistan and also provides the readers with a rationale illustration of history, Pakistan's education system, and the role of Islamist parties in evoking extremism.
𝗌𝖺𝗆𝗆𝖺𝗋𝗒:
In the first couple of chapters writer, Madiha Afzal explains the creation of different terrorist organisations in Pakistan and Afghanistan after the Soviet invasion and the attitudes of the Pakistani people towards these terrorist organisations, with her research-based stats. The next chapter gives a detailed rational recount of the legal Islamization of Pakistan since its creation. she criticised the anti-Ahmadi doctrines, the blasphemy laws and their impacts on society, the marginalisation of minorities, and other key Islamic provisions of the Constitution of Pakistan. she argues that these Islamic provisions in the Constitution, give legitimacy to the extremist's radical Ideology of Islam and sharia and restricts government from taking a practical(secular) counter-narrative.
In the next couple of chapters, she gives a detailed illustration of the role of education in spreading and evoking extremism. she criticised both school and the madrassa system of education. With the help of her research stats, she argued that the madrassa students are more prone to extremism than school students. she heavily criticised the syllabus and the rote system of learning, and the system of examination which doesn't develop critical thinking and analytical skills in students. She showed how it evokes extremism in children from the very early stages of their education. And finally, she gives her suggestions to cope with these core issues faced by Pakistan.
𝖱𝖤𝖵𝖨𝖤𝖶:
It's a research-based book. I love this type of books but I have mixed views about this book. I think her criticism of our education system is more than justified, we need serious reforms in our education system. The parallels she draws between education, state, society and extremism are incredible. Her interpretation of history is based on facts but a bit oversimplified. The way she tries to completely exclude India, America and global and regional power politics from terrorism in Pakistan is also very absurd. She also focuses too much on educational reforms and curriculum that she almost ignored the ethnopolitical and socio-economic reasons for extremism. Throughout the book, she indoctrinates the idea of secular Pakistan, which is also debatable. Finally, some of the solutions she gave to the issue of extremism are mostly unrealistic and can't be implemented.
But overall it's a good read. It'll help to understand the current situation in Pakistan and also provides the readers with a rationale illustration of history, Pakistan's education system, and the role of Islamist parties in evoking extremism.
September 23, 2024
Book Review 📖
Book Name: Pakistan Under Siege
Author: Madiha Afzal.
The Book Pakistan Under Siege written by Madiha Afzal and published in 2018. This book is fully based on research work, interviews conducted by author over several years on Extremism, education, and politics. This book provides a concisely understanding of security issues, extremism, terrorist groups, religious narratives, the role of education and the curriculum of our schools, and colleges, and the societal attitudes reflected in school and college curricula.
This book begins with the extremist culture of Pakistan and links it with the role of the state in promoting terror groups. Undoubtedly we all Know Pakistan has many other lots problems but the author tried to highlight the terrorist attacks across the border and also tried to highlight how the Pakistani government has used its extremist thinking to change the Pakistani education system. According to the author, "The subjects taught in public and private schools are responsible for the rise of extremism in the nation and the government portrayed its world view in history textbooks." The author used its analysis of survey data, textbook instruction material, and interviews to examine all of that.
Madiha Afzal defines how each power group shapes Pakistan's perceptions of extremism through its deeds and ies. She thinks that " Educational Institutions have used to influence citizens political sphere. She has tried to provide a comprehensive understanding to readers of Pakistan's ongoing challenge. Her analytical research offers valuable into country security, governance, economic, and sociopolitical dilemmas.
In the end, she writes that "despite the extremism and terrorist attacks there's still hope for a better Pakistan."
The book Pakistan Under Siege is recommended to all who seeking a deeper understanding of Pakistan must read it.
Thank you.
Book review: Kishor Kumar Suthar
#bookreview #pakistan #bookcommunity
Book Name: Pakistan Under Siege
Author: Madiha Afzal.
The Book Pakistan Under Siege written by Madiha Afzal and published in 2018. This book is fully based on research work, interviews conducted by author over several years on Extremism, education, and politics. This book provides a concisely understanding of security issues, extremism, terrorist groups, religious narratives, the role of education and the curriculum of our schools, and colleges, and the societal attitudes reflected in school and college curricula.
This book begins with the extremist culture of Pakistan and links it with the role of the state in promoting terror groups. Undoubtedly we all Know Pakistan has many other lots problems but the author tried to highlight the terrorist attacks across the border and also tried to highlight how the Pakistani government has used its extremist thinking to change the Pakistani education system. According to the author, "The subjects taught in public and private schools are responsible for the rise of extremism in the nation and the government portrayed its world view in history textbooks." The author used its analysis of survey data, textbook instruction material, and interviews to examine all of that.
Madiha Afzal defines how each power group shapes Pakistan's perceptions of extremism through its deeds and ies. She thinks that " Educational Institutions have used to influence citizens political sphere. She has tried to provide a comprehensive understanding to readers of Pakistan's ongoing challenge. Her analytical research offers valuable into country security, governance, economic, and sociopolitical dilemmas.
In the end, she writes that "despite the extremism and terrorist attacks there's still hope for a better Pakistan."
The book Pakistan Under Siege is recommended to all who seeking a deeper understanding of Pakistan must read it.
Thank you.
Book review: Kishor Kumar Suthar
#bookreview #pakistan #bookcommunity
February 1, 2022
Since last two decades pakistan badly suffers from terrorism. Terrorist activities by Pakistan Taliban and other political supported millittant groups in most part of the country badly hit each and every sphere of society. Thousands of innocent civilians lost their lives as a result.
Pakistan Under Siege is a phenomenal work of Madiha Afazal which provide brief account of extremism and terrorism in Pakistan. The book provide clear understanding of extremist culture of pakistan and linked it with the role of state and society in promoting terror groups on the name of Afghan Jihad. The author discussed role of terrorist organizations such as LeT, Al-Qaeda, Jaish e Muhammad, TTP and Afghan Taliban in details.
The Author support the arguments with her own research findings parallel to research findings PEW research Centre and PIPA Surveys. In this book, Madiha Afzal Laid out the difficulties faced by the state in its strategic mis calculations and misunderstandings of terror groups. Moreover, it also highlights the narratives of pakistani society which paved way for the extremism with in the society. Author showed that how pakistani state itself helped millitant groups to promote false islamization in educational institutes for political use.
To sketch out the true picture of Pakistani extremism author used rigorous analysis along with interviews and a historical narrative. In a nutshell, Madiha Afzal deserve a great applause for underlinning the extremism in pakistani state.
Pakistan Under Siege is a phenomenal work of Madiha Afazal which provide brief account of extremism and terrorism in Pakistan. The book provide clear understanding of extremist culture of pakistan and linked it with the role of state and society in promoting terror groups on the name of Afghan Jihad. The author discussed role of terrorist organizations such as LeT, Al-Qaeda, Jaish e Muhammad, TTP and Afghan Taliban in details.
The Author support the arguments with her own research findings parallel to research findings PEW research Centre and PIPA Surveys. In this book, Madiha Afzal Laid out the difficulties faced by the state in its strategic mis calculations and misunderstandings of terror groups. Moreover, it also highlights the narratives of pakistani society which paved way for the extremism with in the society. Author showed that how pakistani state itself helped millitant groups to promote false islamization in educational institutes for political use.
To sketch out the true picture of Pakistani extremism author used rigorous analysis along with interviews and a historical narrative. In a nutshell, Madiha Afzal deserve a great applause for underlinning the extremism in pakistani state.
May 11, 2022
Madiha Afzal's - Pakistan Under Siege
Rating - 3.5/5
The book explores and tries to answer a few questions relating to Pakistan's state of affairs.
Madiha Afzal is, it is important here to note, a Pakistani American who is a fellow in the Foreign Policy program at Brookings. From the comfort chair of the foreign policy program, she gives a bird's eye view of the rise of extremism in her home country. She raises some serious concerns about the fragile government held in the State and how it takes constant effort to maintain a balance between democracy and chaos (here- giving in to extremists).
The book also gives an insight into the conditioning of the thoughts of its people, from the very inception of Pakistan. It talks about the factors that conditioned their perceptions towards America and India.
.
.
.
.
.
It starts as an engrossing read but, the threads start to loosen up when the same theory begins resurfacing.
It is, however, a bold attempt and does clarify some serious points about the state's policies- despite being stretched out of proportion.
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.
.
To understand the idea of Pakistan from a Pakistani.
Rating - 3.5/5
The book explores and tries to answer a few questions relating to Pakistan's state of affairs.
Madiha Afzal is, it is important here to note, a Pakistani American who is a fellow in the Foreign Policy program at Brookings. From the comfort chair of the foreign policy program, she gives a bird's eye view of the rise of extremism in her home country. She raises some serious concerns about the fragile government held in the State and how it takes constant effort to maintain a balance between democracy and chaos (here- giving in to extremists).
The book also gives an insight into the conditioning of the thoughts of its people, from the very inception of Pakistan. It talks about the factors that conditioned their perceptions towards America and India.
.
.
.
.
.
It starts as an engrossing read but, the threads start to loosen up when the same theory begins resurfacing.
It is, however, a bold attempt and does clarify some serious points about the state's policies- despite being stretched out of proportion.
.
.
.
To understand the idea of Pakistan from a Pakistani.
August 30, 2023
The book does a good job by stating that the radicalism in Pakistani Society is not the product of the people but the invention of the Pakistani state whose motivation emerge from the it's existential insecurity and the lack of common traits among it's people at the time of partition.
The state used Islam as the common unifier as its people didn't had a common history, making Islam the natural unifier as the slogan goes "Pakistan ka Matlab kya, la ilaha illallah".
But every religion has multiple interpretations and one school of thought can be enraged by another in this matter and do not consider leniency in the treatment as they consider it Divine and Holy.
Then the state also uses these emotions to fulfil it's own objectives despite the horrifying cost paid by the civilians. Moreover, with the baisness of the material, one can't think outside the pre-described limits and propose questions.
The sixth chapter, at the end, gives a good and practical way forward for the state in order to change the course of extremism.
The state used Islam as the common unifier as its people didn't had a common history, making Islam the natural unifier as the slogan goes "Pakistan ka Matlab kya, la ilaha illallah".
But every religion has multiple interpretations and one school of thought can be enraged by another in this matter and do not consider leniency in the treatment as they consider it Divine and Holy.
Then the state also uses these emotions to fulfil it's own objectives despite the horrifying cost paid by the civilians. Moreover, with the baisness of the material, one can't think outside the pre-described limits and propose questions.
The sixth chapter, at the end, gives a good and practical way forward for the state in order to change the course of extremism.
June 3, 2020
The book is research-based and pertains to the census as well as private data, however, it would have been great if recent census data was considered rather than relying on past data.
The impact of extremism on education in Pakistan has been an ongoing chain of reaction. The writer expresses clearly how the curriculum can influence the minds of the younger generation. The influence of madrassas in the establishment of Jihadi groups have been examined in detail. The conjunction of religious political parties with Madrassa teachings, which results in acts of terrorism that has gripped Pakistan since post-Soviet Afghan war, really makes one wonder how Muslims can easily be influenced; that Muslim children can be easily converted to militants is a phenomenon which needs to be addressed collectively, provided that the Government unchains itself from the shackles of religious-political parties that have manifested itself strongly in Pakistan.
The impact of extremism on education in Pakistan has been an ongoing chain of reaction. The writer expresses clearly how the curriculum can influence the minds of the younger generation. The influence of madrassas in the establishment of Jihadi groups have been examined in detail. The conjunction of religious political parties with Madrassa teachings, which results in acts of terrorism that has gripped Pakistan since post-Soviet Afghan war, really makes one wonder how Muslims can easily be influenced; that Muslim children can be easily converted to militants is a phenomenon which needs to be addressed collectively, provided that the Government unchains itself from the shackles of religious-political parties that have manifested itself strongly in Pakistan.
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