The scandal of Silsila

Dr. Jassim Taqui

DG Al-Bab Institute for Strategic Studies

Islamabad, July 19, 2021: For three consecutive days, all and sundry in Islamabad are talking loudly about what is called the Silsila Scandal (SS). It is related to the odious kidnapping and torture of “Silsila” the daughter of the Afghan Ambassador to Pakistan Mr. Najibullah Alikhail for 5 hours, and sudden release from captivity.

Subsequently, SS re-appeared, thank God, safe and sound. However, the kidnappers did the damage. Alikhail was recalled by the Afghan Government creating yet another stumble block in the Pak-Afghan relations.

The good news, however, is that the police arrested SS’ kidnapper, Shoaib. He is now in police custody and confessed his involvement in the SS’s kidnapping.

Sometimes today, the Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmad is scheduled to inform the nation about the findings of his investigation of the curious case of SS.

Without wasting any time, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Quereshi should extend official and an unqualified apology to his Afghan counterpart to quickly close the case.

Kidnapping and torturing women are absolutely forbidden by the culture of both countries. This is stemmed from the high degree of respect the Holy Quran gives to women by placing Paradise under the feet of mothers. Let us learn how to say “sorry.”

Let us walk on a new path that is well described by Rumi; Although the road is never-ending, take a step and keep walking, never fear to say,” I am sorry.”