The Pakistani Spectator

In a very welcome step, the local Talibans have allowed the education of females in the agencies of FATA. There is a misconception here, which needs to be clarified and spread to put the things straight.

Talibans were never against the education for the girls, and they never rejected it. They had Madaris for girls operating in the area. What they never liked and acted against was the operations of missionary schools in the disguise of the NGOs. These NGOs were not only acting dually, they were also acting as the spies of the NATO forces. Talibans are a tolerant lot, and they have never limited the spread of other faiths, but they don’t like when NGOs try to play with them.

Talibans have announced that they were opening the schools for girls in the FATA area, but they won’t allow NGOs to come and spread education with specific agenda.  Local Taliban have agreed to allow female education and protect government employees, and they have accused NGOs of spreading obscenity.

The Pakistani authorities should engage Talibans and use their power to establish peace in the area. US doesn’t know the ground realities. Pakistan should also act as a bridge between Talibans and the US officials. Pakistan should bring in US media to FATA and facilitate their meetings with Talibans. US media would get some pleasant surprises for sure.