HEN groups or individuals feel they are not being heard, they often opt for desperate measures. Two years after the killing of 14 workers of Tahirul Qadri`s Pakistan Awami Tehreek in an ugly confrontation with police in Lahore`s Model Town, PAT says there is no progress in the case. As reported recently, Dr Qadri has decided to return to Pakistan to observe the second anniversary of the tragedy; his organisation is planning a sit-in on The Mall on June 17 in protest. The party`s machinery has been activated to ensure supporters show up, and knowing Dr Qadri`s appeal as a religious leader, participation in the protest may be considerable. However, while PAT has every right to demonstrate against the killings and demand justice for the murdered individuals, a few things must be realised. Primarily, the welfare of those attending the protest must be considered. Dr Qadri`s protests are known to attract women accompanied by their children, as well as the elderly, and in this stifling heat and the fact that it is Ramazan and many will be fasting, the sit-in will be a true test of endurance.

Even in the best of times, mass protests are difficult affairs to manage; in such oppressive weather, and with the faithful fasting, PAT should perhaps reconsider its options.

Beyond the welfare of the participants, the core concerns driving the protest must be addressed. If critics or opponents of the ruling party feel they cannot get a fair deal from the system, they will take to the streets to vent their frustration. Therefore, the Punjab administration should reach out to PAT and assure the party that its legitimate grievances will be considered, and that the state will not obstruct the investigation. Those responsible for the murder of activists in the Model Town tragedy must face justice, no matter how strong their connections with the provincial administration may be.

Statesmanship is required from the Punjab government to defuse a tense situation and reinforce its commitment to justice.