Kolkata, Jan 24 (IANS) America's loss of interest in Pakistan was a boon, according to historian Ayesha Jalal who Saturday said encouraging signs were there for democracy to return and thrive in the country often described as a "failed state".
Delivering the 125th Sarat Chandra Bose Anniversary lecture here, the Pakistan-American historian also called for giving time to Pakistan to become a functional democracy.
"The best thing that has happened to Pakistan in years is America is losing interest. Those who want to see the return of democracy in Pakistan, they would certainly hope that America takes less interest in Pakistan because its only interest has been the army," said the Tufts University professor.
"Pakistan's problem has been continuous disruption of the political process by the military. Democracy is a conflict but a managed one and Pakistan now has come to realise that this is what is needed.
"Despite the terror and despite everything, in the present conjecture many opportunities do exist, as there is a realisation that this is the way forward," she said.
Jalal, the author of "The struggle for Pakistan: a Muslim homeland and global politics" also said the judiciary's steady assertiveness will ensure that the military will chose not to intervene directly.
"But that doesn't mean the military will not be the dominant institution. It will change only after decades of uninterrupted parliamentary government.
"The state institutions are so fragmented because of years of authoritarianism, nepotism and political interference that the break in the institutions' ethos, until that is restored, it would be difficult to ensure a proper delivery system. That is why I say Pakistan needs to be given time," she said.
Jalal also expressed displeasure about Pakistan being called a "failed state".
"I also want to ask about the narrative about Pakistan being a failed state. A failed state by whose standard, by the western standard, by India's standard? I don't think this is a useful categorisation," she said.
Jalal asserted that the Dec 16 Peshawar school attack has made the authorities intensify the fight against terrorism and called for re-imposing the moratorium on the death penalty, that was lifted after the massacre that claimed the lives of 145 people, the majority of them children.
Why anti-racist protests are becoming a headache for Trump
Once again, the anti-racism movement in America has gained strength, while the Presidential elect
Moto X30 Pro: World's first 200MP camera phone will be launched on this day, know details
Moto X30 Pro Leak: The world's first 200-megapixel smartphone is coming soon. Moto X30 Pro will b
Sachin Vajhe will be sacked from Mumbai Police for suspension, the process begins
The Mumbai Police has started the process of dismissal of suspended police officer Sachin Waje, a
Afghan Deputy Prime Minister Mullah Baradar held hostage by Haqqani network, Akhundzada put to death
Shocking reports have come to the fore during the ongoing power struggle within the Taliban. The
After the Thappad controversy, Will Smith reached India to meet Sadhguru, spots in Mumbai
Oscar-winner Hollywood actor Will Smith was spotted in Mumbai on the previous day. According to r
The 68th match of IPL 2024 between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Chennai Super Kings will be pl
Sri Lanka, which is facing an economic crisis, is under threat of attack by the Liberation Tigers
Brett Lee hopes for Fast Pitches in World Cup
Adelaide, Feb 6 (IANS) Former Australian fast bowler Brett Lee Friday said the upcoming ICC Wor
Gudi Padwa 2023 Date: Gudi Padwa today, know the auspicious time and religious significance
Gudi Padwa 2023: Many types of religious festivals and festivals are celebrated in Hinduism. One
Pakistan Army not getting hawk even after ceasefire agreement, LOC is engaged in this tactic
Although peace has prevailed since the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan on the LoC,
