Gross Injustice: Pakistan's Ruling Class' Apathy Exposed In the Face of Tragedy and Privilege
The sad episode off the coast of Greece, which resulted in the deaths of scores of migrants and refugees, many of whom were Pakistanis, serves as a sobering reminder of the desperate conditions that push people to take great risks in quest of a better life. Because they are trapped in poverty and economic insecurity, these people are eager to embark on perilous journeys; however, they eventually suffer unbearable misery and die tragically as a result.
Although the Pakistani government took swift action in the wake of the catastrophe by detaining 10 alleged people traffickers and promising severe penalties, these measures by themselves are insufficient to justify the ruling class's disregard for the suffering of the common people. The fact that the same administration, which claims to be committed to eliminating human trafficking, is also working on a law that would grant the Senate chairman and his family tremendous privileges at the expense of the already overburdened public, is a bitter irony.
The ruling class's proposal to pay the Senate chairman a colossal sum every month while the country is dealing with a severe financial crisis is nothing short of disgraceful. This outrageous sum, supplemented by additional allowances, sumptuous allowances, and a variety of facilities show how cruel those in positions of power truly are.
While vulnerable migrants risk their lives and perish at sea, the ruling class enjoys lavish advantages paid for with tax dollars. The Senate chairman and his family are given the benefit of an official vehicle, transportation, personal servant lodging expenses, and furnished homes. Even personal property maintenance is covered by the charge, which includes money for furniture and decor.
The chairman is also entitled to a number of travel perks, such as free phones, first-class officer treatment, and the right to bring servants along at taxpayer expense. Family members are pampered with daily allowances and opulent hotel suites, and private aircraft and helicopters can be requested for their convenience.
The bill enhances the chairman's standing to that of deputy head of state while on official business travels overseas, giving a sense of entitlement both domestically and abroad. For individuals who finish the whole term, access to medical facilities—both in public and private hospitals—is assured, with lifelong protections. The chairman's position of privilege is further cemented through personal staff and discretionary grants.
This striking contrast between the suffering of people who are trying to live better lives and the pleasure of the ruling elite is a damning indictment of the government's insensitivity and lack of empathy. The ruling class enjoys luxurious privileges and perks while migrants endure treacherous travels, fatalities, and terrible misery. It is an egregious injustice and a stark illustration of the gap between the people's leaders and the people they are supposed to represent.
The governing class needs to answer for their carelessness and disregard for the problems of the underprivileged citizens they are supposed to represent. It is past time for them to put the needs of the populace above their personal indulgences and endeavor to establish a just and equitable society where the general welfare comes first. The catastrophic boat event acts as a wake-up call, requiring a significant shift in the beliefs and behaviors of individuals in positions of authority.
