Pakistan has suffered deeply because of terrorism. Thousands of innocent civilians, police officers, and soldiers have lost their lives over the years. That is why the recent increase in terrorist attacks is not just worrying — it is painful and disturbing. It forces us to ask a simple but serious question: are we going back to the same mistakes that once pushed the country into chaos?

After the tragic attack on the Army Public School in 2014, Pakistan showed unity and determination. The state took strong action against militant groups, and terrorist incidents reduced greatly. For some years, people felt safer, and there was hope that the worst was over. Sadly, that belief proved to be premature.

One major mistake was assuming that terrorism had completely ended. In reality, it was only controlled, not eliminated. As time passed, attention shifted elsewhere. Counterterrorism efforts became weak and irregular. Institutions that were supposed to monitor and prevent extremism lost focus, while long-term planning was ignored.

The National Action Plan was introduced as a strong response to terrorism. On paper, it addressed important issues like hate speech, extremist funding, and militant organisations. However, in practice, many parts of the plan were never fully implemented. Laws existed, but enforcement was selective. Political interests often took priority over national security, reducing the plan to a statement rather than real action.

The situation across Pakistan’s western border also changed the security environment. New regional realities required clear and timely decisions, but confusion and delays weakened Pakistan’s position. While border fencing improved physical control, terrorism cannot be stopped by barriers alone. It requires cooperation, clear policy, and effective diplomacy.

Another problem is relying too much on force. Military operations can control violence temporarily, but they cannot solve the root causes of terrorism. Extremism grows where there is poverty, weak governance, poor policing, and slow justice. Many areas affected by terrorism still lack basic services, fair courts, and employment opportunities. Without addressing these issues, peace cannot last.

Terrorism also damages democracy. When security problems increase, space for political debate and civil rights often shrinks. Emergency measures become routine, and constitutional governance weakens. True security comes not only from guns, but from strong institutions, rule of law, and public trust.

Pakistan does not need new policies or slogans. What it needs is honest implementation of existing laws and plans. Parliament must play its role, civilian institutions must be strengthened, and provinces should be treated as key partners in security efforts. At the same time, extremist thinking must be challenged through education, media, and social reform.

The return of terrorism is not fate. It is the result of neglect, inconsistency, and short-term thinking. Pakistan has already paid a heavy price for these mistakes. If the lessons of the past are ignored again, the cost will be even higher. The time to act wisely, consistently, and lawfully is now.
” History will judge not the intentions declared, but the mistakes repeated.”