Whenever some Pakistanis meet, whether living in their home country or overseas, the only topic that comes up for discussion is growing extremism and its consequences in form of religious and sectarian terrorism. Everyone offers his own analysis and suggests ways to deal with. Someone may blame the ongoing war on terror while others make the madrasas responsible for growing terrorism.
However, one important aspect is generally missed out: The communication space available for propagation of extremist views on electronic media and social networks (Facebook, twitter, YouTube). In a blind race for ratings and increased revenue, Pakistan’s electronic media provide prime time to religious extremists to air their views without any censor.
As a result many people who watch these TV programs are influenced by the extremist views and carry out destructive activities without and feeling of guilt or remorse. — Masood Khan, Jubail
Growing extremism
