Quite obviously, maintenance of law and order is essentially the primary duty of the provincial governments of Punjab, Sindh, NWFP and Balochistan. In view of the coming general election, law and order has gained more importance.
Everyone is calling for complete peace, law and order so that the maximum number of people feel free to visit the polling stations on February 18, cast their votes in a conducive atmosphere and go back to their homes in safety.
But, one cannot clap with one hand. 'Taali Donon Hathon Say He Bajti Hai.' The Provincial Governments under the supervision and directions of the Federal Government in general and President Pervez Musharraf are performing their duties in this regard fairly well.
Law and order cannot be maintained at the desired level unless the people at large also make their contributions in this regard. In view of the fast approaching general elections, political parties which are in the election arena and their candidates contesting for the National and Provincial Assemblies also have greater responsibility and obligation to join hands with the Provincial Governments concerned and play their role in the maintenance of law and order.
It is true that President Pervez Musharraf is committed and determined to ensure that the polls on February 18 are held in a free, fair, transparent, orderly and peaceful manner at all costs so that people can cast their votes freely.
But what about the "other hand"? There would surely be peace, calm and orderly atmosphere provided everyone realises his/her responsibility in this respect particularly the participating parties and their candidates. Peace and tranquillity will certainly encourage the people to go to the polling stations in maximum numbers and cast their votes.