Paradigm Shift in Karachi's Conflict Matrix: A Case Study

Pakistan Perspectives, Vol. 22, No. 2, July-December 2017

19 Pages Posted: 6 Mar 2018

See all articles by Huma Baqai

Huma Baqai

University of Karachi - Department of Social Sciences

Maria Hassan

University of Karachi - Department of Social Sciences

Date Written: February 26, 2018

Abstract

Karachi is the only true megalopolis in Pakistan. It is also a textbook case of urban challenges and political vicissitudes. The qualitative study provides an insight into the long standing generic ethno-political realities of the city and the emergence of a new non-state actor, the Taliban, on the scene. This new actor at one time controlled Karachi and was responsible for 90 per cent spike in terrorist attacks in the city. The paper attempts to explain that the violent matrix of Karachi is not about law and order. The law and order break down Karachi experiences, is the byproduct of unprecedented demographic convulsions that the city continues to experience, the conflict under development trap, and the governance break down leading to the phenomenon of mafias and militancy. The ongoing Karachi operation, initiated in September 2013, was the state response to address the deteriorating situation on the ground. Karachi is a resilient city, it has responded positively to the initiative with 360 degree tangible improvement, acknowledged both nationally and internationally. The sustainability of the normalcy restored remains a challenge.

Suggested Citation

Baqai, Huma and Hassan, Maria, Paradigm Shift in Karachi's Conflict Matrix: A Case Study (February 26, 2018). Pakistan Perspectives, Vol. 22, No. 2, July-December 2017, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=3130037

Huma Baqai (Contact Author)

University of Karachi - Department of Social Sciences ( email )

University Road
Karachi, Sindh 75270
Pakistan

Maria Hassan

University of Karachi - Department of Social Sciences

University Road
Karachi, Sindh 75270
Pakistan

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