A few distinct traits of Pakistanis distinguish us from the other nationalities in this enormous galaxy of nations. These have become our trade mark and have harmed us most as a nation. They have always embarrassed the low population of self respecting, sensitive and patriotic amongst us. Besides material dishonesty and corruption, we are plagued by moral bankruptcy, inability to call a spade a spade and inclination to bear excesses and injustices of institutions and powerful individuals. How else could it be possible that the country, won by power of the vote, has been ruled for prolonged periods by dictators who have faced zero resistance. Down the course those responsible for national debacles, disasters and tragedies were never brought to dock. Instead they were rewarded with promotions, honors and estates. The trend is more pronounced in the armed forces, obviously due to the Army's prolonged rule over the nation and treatment of its top brass as being above the law, like sacred cows. Few, if any commander has been made to pay for incdmpetence, blunders and debacles, like the shameless surrender in Bengal, Siachen Glacier 1984, Kargil misadventure, Ojhri Camp fiasco and numerous minor reverses here and there. Our system only encourages rewards for those who have mastered the earthy art of self praise and can project their minor achievements in a blown up shape.
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