Goodbye International Cricket in Pakistan

Goodbye International Cricket in Pakistan

As I broke the story of the attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore, I also mourned the imminent death of international cricket in Pakistan. This deadly attack simply means no international team will be willing to come and play any sport in Pakistan. What is most embarrassing is the fact that the attack was targeted at a team that was trying to help Pakistani cricket and cricket-crazed fans by agreeing to tour in a time of dire crises.

 

Kumar Sangakkara, Ajhanta Mendis, Thilan Samaraweera and Tharanga Paranavithana are injured and although their lives are out of danger, it was most unfortunate that these most sporting of cricketers had to face this. Only last week, during the Karachi Test, former England fast bowler Dominic Cork and Sri Lankan coach Trevor Bayliss spoke about the fool-proof security arrangements in Pakistan and pleaded international sides to come and play cricket here. What must they be thinking and doing now? Eating their words, and packing their bags to board the next flight home, I suppose.

 

The least the Pakistan Cricket Board and the Pakistan government can do now is issue a national, government-level apology to the Sri Lankan team and the people of Sri Lanka for this unfortunate incident – a bit more than the PCB chief saying ‘we’re assessing the situation.’

 

Pakistani fans can pretty much say goodbye to international cricket after this attack and dare I say, even prepare for a total boycott of all sports events in the country for the next few months.





619 Comments

  1. avatar
    t.fatima Says:
    March 25th, 2009 at 19:57
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    Its really stupid all this blaming Pakistan and quiting cricket in the region!

    I mean…why would the government do it on purpose?? they arent stupid! and what about the people?? whats their fault?? who wants their people killed and uncretanity in their own country?? no one!! so whats this blaming around going on for??

    Like Sri Lanka never had a bombing?? and why are we apologetic??

    Why do we have to bend over trying to please all the nations?? we are trying arent we?? to bring stability to our region! its not easy given the open conditions of our borders!!

    so lets all Pakistanis stick together..its all about putting up a united front!!

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  2. avatar comment-top

    Why should it be Goodbye Cricket.

    So far, based on the what happened I would say this.

    Goodbye Kafir Cricket teams playing in Pakistan.

    Only when the Taliban (or whoever) attacks the Pakistan’s (or any other muslim country’s teams), I will beleive that Taliban really doesn’t like cricket.

    So far the evidence does not point, that they really wanted to attack any Muslim Cricket players
    Until then, it is just another attack on kafir.

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    Hoping that international cricket will come back to Pakistan will be equivalent to saying a dead man will become alive again. Hard luck poor Pakistani fans.

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    All thru this post you see Pakistanis saying sorry to the Sri Lankan team, and admiring there courage. But… 21 days after the incident, has any terrorist being caught? Have they identified who are responsible? The terrorists were allowed to escape, and are still absconding. Lots of doubts over the sincerity of the Government to solve this case. The govt definately is out of tune with the apology of layman Pakistani’s aplogy to SriLanka.

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  5. avatar
    kumruddin hilawal shiekh Says:
    March 24th, 2009 at 4:36
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    Its good there is no cricket in Pakistan, People of Pakistan should be more god fearing rather that waste time in chasing a ball.
    Its common knowledge all cricketer lead non islamic life style and miss namaz, are we forgetting playboys like Imran Khan and Wasim they took pride in thier anti islam stand.

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  6. avatar
    Dr.Shahrukh Hashmani Says:
    March 22nd, 2009 at 16:23
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    I feel the headline shud ve been ” Good Bye to any cricket in Pakistan”

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  7. avatar comment-top

    Shame on police and law enforcing agencies! If our police and security agencies can’t provide security to our respectable guests, they should be thrown out of their business.
    Our government and our politicians only have time for horse trading.

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  8. avatar comment-top

    Its natural phenomena. ‘As you so, so shall you reap’. The activities of PCB from last 15 years, the attitude of players, gambling, liking & disliking and all those who involved in it, all are responsible for this. I have stong feelings over it and cricket might be banned in pakistan for some years.

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  9. avatar comment-top

    Pakistan is a failed state and who cares if cricket is over for Pakistan.

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  10. avatar
    Rehman Saiyed Says:
    March 13th, 2009 at 9:11
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    Sam – The Taliban version of Islam is preposterous. ISLAM DOESN’T TEACH YOU TO ENFORCE YOUR WILL ON OTHERS!!

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  11. avatar
    Pushpinder Says:
    March 12th, 2009 at 21:44
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    Just like India, politians have very limited agenda and vision, primarily of their own self interest. I certainly feel most sorry for the PAK cricket and good people of PAK. I am quite heartened however to see the wide ranges of protest against the governor’s rule in Punjab.

    Hopefully, one day, PAK will be stable and vibrant and the leaders will pay more attention to its people’s welface rather than concentrate on how to de-stabilise India.

    A healthy, prosperous and vibrant PAK is good for its people and India as well. Nothing better than PEACE.

    One more thing. Government of PAK, at its highest level issue an appology and perhaps a minor TV address to let the world know it appreciates the gravity of the situation. And for God’s sake, please fire Ijat Butt, who is more interested in blaming Mr. Broad than feeling shameful for their own failures to protect their esteemed guest.

    As far as PAK cricket is concerned, I will always long for Mr. Tendukar to face the devastating bowlers of PAK. Soon I hope.

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  12. avatar
    Jan, Denmark Says:
    March 12th, 2009 at 19:02
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    The article in today’s addition of DAWN about

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    Jameel said ” Overcoming the local elements is easier but the foreign intervention to destabilise the country is difficult to counter as there are different resourceful intellegence agencies with short and long term objectives in the reigion.”

    Jameel , here is the first step to coming out of the failed state status. THE PEOPLE TRAINED aka terrorist are pakistanis. Maybe be funded by taliban– but its pakistani citizen who is conducting the acts in the front line

    Lesson two- pakistan created this implosion. They still have terror camps in the name of Kashmir freedom Fighters. What your ISI and military failed to understnd is, when you breed such extermism, they will turn inward some day. and now you have exactly that case today in Pakistan.

    stop looking for excuses. It seems to therest of the world, the citizens of pakistan are not united to fight to get back their country and civil liberties.

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  14. avatar comment-top

    Sam the young Jihadi said”

    Anyway, Pakistan is going to be taken over by Taliban very soon.
    It is futile in fighting against pure islam.
    Stop the fight and avoid bloodshed.
    Accept True islam!! and peace which comes with that.

    Show me one country that is ruled by religion and submission to it i.e ruled by religion vs a constitution by the people. Is peaceful? Go ahead name us one… somalia? Taliban ruled afghanistan ( past years)?

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  15. avatar
    vijay, India Says:
    March 12th, 2009 at 9:41
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    Dear Sam,
    Pak will not prosper with thinking like this.In taliban kind of islam, ladies will become child bearing machines, the boys will become machine gun holding zombies.
    You want all the modern things like mobiles guns, vehicles.Like the past do not use mobiles, walk instead of travelling in jeeps.

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  16. avatar comment-top

    We cannot say that international cricket is finished in Pakistan but still teams can realize that there are tough times for Pakistan and come here to help us like what Srilanka did. Best of luck Pakistan!

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  17. avatar
    Manish Sharma Says:
    March 10th, 2009 at 10:02
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    All Indian people of common sense should pray for the following ‘P’s for Pakistan.

    P for Peace.
    P for Prosperity.
    P for Plenty.
    P for Pure Heartedness.

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  18. avatar comment-top

    Vijay writes”
    You should have said, Islam means submission to god and not to terrorists.”

    I said submit to pure islam, as proposed by Taliban.

    Anyway, Pakistan is going to be taken over by Taliban very soon.
    It is futile in fighting against pure islam.
    Stop the fight and avoid bloodshed.
    Accept True islam!! and peace which comes with that.

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  19. avatar comment-top

    Is Cricket un islamic as per this LeT fatwa ??
    So if this is true, all TRUE muslims should stop playing this game.

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  20. avatar
    sahyder Says:
    March 9th, 2009 at 0:14
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    All terrorists should be publicly executed for others to learn lessons. No questions asked. Any one who is even remotely connected to Talibans should get the same treatment. These b——s have no right to be alive.

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  21. avatar comment-top

    All true Pakistanis not only should mourn the martyred policemen but also mourn the demise of Pakistan as it was 60 years ago.

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    It is surprising that Pakistan authorities do not learn at all. Home grown terrorists are hitting everywhere, Pakistan cannot see this.The CIA has warned that UK could be the biggest victim of Pakistan terrorists as the attack on the subway has shown. 2000 potential Pakistani-British people are under CIA watch in the UK as the same people go to Pakistan for training. Now after Broad made serious accusations, Pakistan authorities will protest to ICC. Friends, accept it, Pakistan has failed and now definitely shows Pakistan as a failed state. Still the lesson is not learned, Imran Khan sees the terrorists as being afg, india or lankan. In other words the home-grown terrorists are angels, they can continue to kill – at least kafirs were involved. This is Imran Khan’s interpretation. If Pakistan does not root out these terrorist camps, soon the terrorist camps will be installed in Islamabad, which will be renamed TERRORABAD.

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  23. avatar comment-top

    The sucurity apparatus put at the disposable of the lankan team is laughable. the poor policemen who lost their lives were not trained in that sort of job to fight back. Condelences to them.
    pakistan cannot maintain law and order for its own people, how can it protect foreigners ? pakistan is crumbling. there is no one responsible for anything. the criminals, the terrirists, the looters and now taliban are all actively taking over the country. where is the elected govenment ? where is the army that calls itsel very strong to stop an indian invasion but has to withdraw from the heat of swat and talibans ? big mouths, but action zero, the coutry is crumbling in the west but pakistan thinks the risk is coming from the east.

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  24. avatar comment-top

    terrorists have gone too far in pakistan. It is too late to stop the disintegration of pakistan.The army has given up fighting. Taliban abducted a whole squadron of the army.the government has surrendered to taliban in swat. peshawar is crumbling.slowly taliban and terrorists are taking over pakistan.how can cricket come back or any sport or any economic activity ?the bleak future awaits pakistan.its people have has given long ago to fight for its right whn the army took power. pakistan was created for muslims, Today islamic fanaticism will kill sufism and moderate islam in pakistan. there is no one to protect pakistan the whole nation is surrendering to terrorsy.

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    Pakistan failed to recognize terrorism is taking over Pakistan. Pakistan always felt terrorists will fight against India. After fighting India, what else do they have to fight ? Pakistan itself. The monster that Pakistan created has come home to roost. To take over Pakistan completely. The army of Pakistan will be taken over by the terrorists. The army is too weak to face terrorist. Who will save Pakistan ?

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  26. avatar comment-top

    Good to see that there are still some sensible Pakistanis left in that country. There is a saying’ as you sow, so do you reap’. So much of radicalisation was going on inside that country, still you pretended that nothing was happening. Anyway, there is still some time left with you to reverse the downfall. Otherwise, the writing is clear on the wall–come back and join mother India !! No offense,just some wishfull thinking from your so-called Indian Muslim brother.

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  27. avatar comment-top

    Somehow, whats really sad is that after the incident, no high officials from police, elite force and rangers were called upon for explanation, no one got sacked, no one was held responsible. This shows that how irresponsible our security institutions are. If we dont feel protected, how can we guarantee the protection for others.
    I am not a security expert but the team should have been protected by the best commandos of elite force. Plus what is more sad about this whole situation that the fight continued for around 25 – 30min and no backup force were there to counter those horrible animals.
    With all due respect to all of us, but with this incident, it has been a great disappointed as a Pakistani
    Cricket is in our blood and will never die but we will see further fadeout of the international cricket in Pakistan.
    I am still a proud pakistani and will be… and we as people, its in our hand to unite and make a better future for our great full of potential country.

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  28. avatar comment-top

    Only for Imran Khan as he says it was foriegn hand…

    Mr Imran Khan,

    For God Sake please except that it was insiders work. or else answers these..

    1. why was Pakistan’s team bus was delayed by 5 mins.
    2. Why none of militants were arresetd or killed or even injured.
    3. Is this the best security you have?
    4. How come the Bus route was changed at the last minute.
    5. Looking at CCTV footage, why was the bike on which terrorist was fleeing not intercepted by the police car which was on the same road?
    6. How come there was traffic on the road when it was supposed to be a PM or president level security…

    I have plenty

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  29. avatar
    Kavitha Shetty, Mumbai Says:
    March 8th, 2009 at 11:10
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    Musharaf says in his recent visit to India that RAW helping militants in Afghanistan.
    I bet that India is the only country in the whole world that will listen against India in our own soil from the enemies … so what should we call ourselves after hearing mush allegations on us.. what are our politicians doing ?… Shame on the Indian govt for not valuing the sacrifices of our army personnel during the kargil war.
    Mush is the best candidate for pak president. All the best for him.

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  30. avatar comment-top

    I think the first need is Pakistani nation becomes united and have very close ties among each other. Then they stay united and combat all such forces that are unstabilizing the country.

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  31. avatar
    Nitin A Says:
    March 8th, 2009 at 0:47
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    cricket can back sooner or Later…that is not the question-but when Pakistan People will get their Pakistan back. …….1947 pakistan even formed as a Muslim nation always respected minorities (hindus, sikhs, christians). 1980-1992 Pakistan ——-only respected and appreciated Talibanistaion……..but where are moderate Pak citizens are——-

    today SWAT deal, today they (taliban/ and other pak religious parties) ban, girls education, music, barber shop, tomorrow they come to lahore and Karachi…….. today they say Shia and Sufi Islam are kafirs. ……….Tomorrow they say Punjabi Muslim and Sindhi muslim are kafirs and their is only one Muslim (Pakhtoon Taliban).

    Today they say Pakistan is Sunni Muslim/Land of pure. ……..tomorrow they say,……..NWFP is part of Afghanistan——-and balochistan -(part of Iran-as Balochi’s are not real Sunni Muslim as are different from pakhtoon Afghan’s)………………

    today they (taliban)–they are fighting for Religion of Pure/ISlam———tomorrow they say they are fighting for only taliban.

    BUT NO_ONE is fighting for PAKISTAN——–I mean NO-ONE……

    ………where did that Pakistan go—–where everyone (Muslim, Hindu, sikh, christain) used to work/prey for Pakistan—-where Pakistan’s economy was as clsoe to India’s economy. ………..where a common afghan used to see Pak ……….as a nation of prosperity. ……….where Indian doctors were in awe of Pak doctors…..

    This is not a fight against India, USA or Israel or west. This is a fight for PAkistan Survival…….only and I know PAKISTANI people (only pakistani people) can do this……..to save their PAKISTAN…..

    remeber this if their is no PAKISTAN…….their is no cricket, there is no music, there is no food, education, there is no prosperity……………

    JUST ONE ONLY DARK TALIBAN—–
    Also rememeber Pakistan has 5th or 7th largest ARMY in the world………….SO dont tell me that PAK army cant take 3,000-7,0000 Taliban/ pak based militant FANACTICS.

    BUT WHERE IS THE WILL……….(political circle)

    Also please think if possible to CLOSE/SEAL YOUR BORDER with Afghanistan

    (we all from continent) have to understand……..going taliban way is destruction of Pakistan——–as it was for Afghanistan.

    I dont say this because I have anything against pakistan……..but because I know Pakistan does not deserve this…………because the Pakistan I knew or heard of was for MODERATE views, economic strong, and politically unity…….

    Why only one God (may all God’s/ every religion/every prophet/every human being)——pray and wish Best for Pakistan

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  32. avatar
    jagdish kalkunte, M.D> Says:
    March 8th, 2009 at 0:39
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    People of Pakistan should stand up against
    mauraders who are holding the country to destroy.

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  33. avatar
    subramanian Says:
    March 7th, 2009 at 23:11
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    goodbye for international cricket is not only for pakistan but also for entire sub continent particularly india. I am a very big cricket fan. i am very disappointed because of this attact.

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    I come from Hyderabad (India). Twenty years ago we used to have a section of the city we used to have a part of the city called “old city” which used to be a place for fanatical Hindus and Muslims who used to fight each other every day.Every body used to avoid going there if possible.But then, economic development took over.
    People started having a good life and dint have time to kill each other.And they still pray five times a day and celebrate Hindu festivals. so the key to any change in pakistan is economic development and education (which the politicians are not interested in).
    The politicians in Pakistan have done very little for that country.The length of the rail network is the same as it was when the British left.Pakistan should try to compete with India economically. Then it will be good for both countries.Indians will be very happy on the day when politicians on both sides are busy comparing GDP’s and not weapon levels or violence levels in kashmir.

    Finally, I saw on the front page of Dawn the item “Slum dog debate – India not shining” I do not understand the perverted joy we get in talking about the failures of each other.Let us talk about success as well.The comments by people from pakistan on this blog are very encouraging and if this is translated into a mass movement we can look forward to a peaceful,prosperous and wonderful neighbour in the future.

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  35. avatar comment-top

    Why do I see comments that ask how come terror camps still exist with the blessing of the govt and military, being removed from here?

    It is was even stated by the govt, that LET camps is where these guys get trained. Censorship leads to only hidding the fact not removing it.

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    We Indians should stop preaching Pakistanis. Do we think this incident can’t happen in India? Do you know how easy it was for the terrorists to strike in Mumbai? How long did it take for the police to take control of the situation? Were Indian police prepared for this?

    What has Indian govt done to stop future incidents like this? Have Indians taken to the streets demanding a better security? Yeah, there were a couple of demonstrations, but they are hardly demonstrations in a country of billions.

    So stop preaching. While it is important for Pakistan to clean up their house, it is more important for India to do everything it can to protect the homeland.

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    This is for Pakistan Establishment: Please come out of denial and stop listening to the people who provide conspiracy theories.
    During the elections the common people voted for moderate people to govern and all the fundamantalist parties lost the elections. How can government strike a deal with the Taliban when the people don’t want. You are going against the wishes of the people whom you represent

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  38. avatar comment-top

    This is a total security failure because the government is too busy doing other nasty things, they are too busy in their quest for power. They should be held responsible for putting the entire nation in sahme before the Lankans and the whole cricketing world.

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  39. avatar
    vijay, India Says:
    March 7th, 2009 at 16:14
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    Sam,
    You should have said, Islam means submission to god and not to terrorists.

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  40. avatar comment-top

    Hi

    I was shocked to read view of Javed Miandad asking ICC to ban Broad. When shall a normal Pakistani shall accept that it was 100% mistake of Pakistan and any statement by Broad is nothing but truth.

    Mr. Miandad plz try to at least accept the facts, go though the 2 CCTV footing being shown allover world in which 6 of terrorist are walking freely on road after the lahore incident and after that Police car passing next to the bike of terrorist are not even tried to be questioned by Police.

    With such video footage what more proof you require to go against Mr. broad or in that case anyone.

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    Cricket or no cricket. The point is that apparently, the government is not in control in pakistan. And in many cases, Taliban and Al Qaida sympathizers are embedded in pak government and ISI. government has no will to deal with taliban and al qaida hoodlums. These are not people fighting for a cause. These are criminals, jackals under the sheep skins. And pakistan cannot escape the responsibility of not doing enough to stop terrorism emanating from its soil. Blaming India for Lahor attack, you know as well as the rest of the world does that is creating a sharade. You can’t hide behind this kind of sharade. After looking at the video clips, it is apparent that these criminals had strong backing of someone in a stronger and higher position. Because pak government and politicians have no political will to deal with this issue, they took the easy way out, and compromised with the criminals in FATA and Waziristan.

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  42. avatar comment-top

    CRICKET IS A THOUGHT WHICH LIVE IN EVERY MINDS OF THIS SUB-CONTINENT. TRUE EMBASSADOR OF BOTH COUNTRIES INDIA-PAKISTAN. HERE ITS LIKE A PASSION.

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  43. avatar comment-top

    Recent news of Lahore incident predictably has focused at security failure.I do agree partially but my main concern is a total failure in training our security people in gathering forensic and human intelligece of various religious groups. The killing of minority sects have been taking place for two decades, unfourtunately very few people have been convicted.This malaise has now spread to affect the state of Pakistan.These groups were trained by the ISI and the state is now incurring its blowback.To tackle this scourge a total commitment of all pakitanis is required and for this to happen all religious figures should speak with one voice against killing humans whatever his belief.
    To blame others for your ills is cowardice.

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  44. avatar
    Bakker Ali Says:
    March 7th, 2009 at 9:42
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    My friend Sam has got it all wrong . Word Islam means peace not submission. And it is submission to God not Taliban.

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  45. avatar
    Daria Khan Says:
    March 7th, 2009 at 9:19
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    Who ever has the job of filtering out messages on this blog purely on the political lines should at least collect and compile them . Distribute to Pakistanis en mass to wake them.
    It is sorry to see this blog filtering perfectly polite message……

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  46. avatar
    I Rahman Says:
    March 7th, 2009 at 9:06
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    Sad.
    Sorry Sri Lanka. Remember we sacrificed 6 policemen. These policemen at the front line deserve our praise but let us not forget that the bosses of these 6 Police men at the top of the Police and top of Government of Punjab and Pakistan are neither capable of understanding the roots of this tragedy nor are they capable of preventing it. They are too busy getting elected and running election duties.
    That is what is so sad.

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  47. avatar
    Daria Khan Says:
    March 7th, 2009 at 8:43
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    I agree totally. The purpose of the discussion is to understand the root cause of the problem. And Hanif Zahid says it right. We have leaders that do not know how to resolve the problems since they are
    1- not capable and
    2- with questionable credentials

    The chowkidar guarding President house is more thoroughly scrutinized for character and clean slate then the president himself.

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  48. avatar comment-top

    The day this happened was a sad day for many Pakistanis chiefly because it is so painful to accept the fact that Pakistan is now effectively going down the route of Iraq and Afghanistan. Even an idiot like me can’t fail to notice that in eight and a half years of military reign how much has this country changed!

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  49. avatar
    Nasir Khan Says:
    March 7th, 2009 at 2:59
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    I am shocked that PCB Chairman and some players had harsh words for Chris Broad after his press conference. Even if he was not totally accurate about his traumatic experience in Lahore, they should have shown more compassion to someone who was almost killed in our country and who we failed to protect adequately. I thank God that they survived, even though we had miserably failed to do our job.

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    Spare a thought and pray for those who got killed without having a chance to defend themselves, offering themslves as shield to the terrorists. I am talking of those policeman who I am sure are on wages of few thousand rupees..with mouths to feed at home and a family to look after…that goes for all those who died in bombay as well.

    This terrorist attack did not happen overnight, they must have planned months in advance..Lots of bloggers say Srilankan team is brave…I say there was only a missed bullet between brave and the dead.

    Now just imagine Indian team in that situation…they were to visit pakistan..and i am almost certain this was meant for them. Motive…create chaos, hatred amongst the people of pakistan and india..that it may lead to war and irrevocable consequences..a wound so deep that it would never heal..

    And there you have it, mission accomplished for the terrorists.

    Pakistan is in dire straits, young educated man and women will need to steer the country from these hate mongers,who preach hatred on religious grounds and guide uneducated poor people towards certain doom.

    A miracle needs to happen..and soon

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  51. avatar comment-top

    While reading through the comments I found a lot of advices to pakistan to curb extremism. I have been to India and have some great Indin friends with whom I had a wonderful time during my studies abroad. Lets not forget that current unrest, suicide bombings etc. in Pakistan are due to funding and logistical support by foreign elements present in Afghanistan. Tehreik e Taliban

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  52. avatar comment-top

    It was wholly a security lapse otherwise the terrorists would never escape like brandishing weapons through Lahore streets. PCB and Punjab government must concede their negligence in their part for the failure to save our Sri Lankan guests instead of pretending to provide a fool proof, presedential level security. Its very shamefull that our security could not hunt down even a single terrorist in VVIP security level. I really salute to the security personnel (sons of Pakistan) who martyred during the incident especially the courage of the driver who didnot last sense till the last.

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  53. avatar comment-top

    Did I miss reading Nawaz Sharif, Qazi and others condemning the Lahore attack?
    Does this not tell you whose friends these people are?

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    Pakistan on the pretext of having Kashmir back is loosing its good night sleep.And also the seeds of hatred against India is grown to strangle its own neck.Forgive me friends ,this is the truth.India is your friend ,not your enemy .Kashmir is divided and you have part of it.lets be happy with what we have and lets grow.

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    Sam,

    its because of people like you Pakistan & Islam are suffering. Pakistan needs more moedrates than radicals who practice their religion keeping in mind today’s times and not times of the 13th century. Everything evolves and so does religion keeping in mind our current surroundings. That doesnt mean one must not bow their head to allah or practice islam, but it means that while doing so one should in keep in mind the current anomalities. So don’t beat and kill women like before let them be a equal part keeping in mind today’s times. If all the muslims adapted then this world will be free of terrorism and radicals.

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    Hi,
    After reading all the comments and watching the news, Only one Question pops-up in my mind. What was the Security Doing while those people were throwing gurnates and gun fire for 30 mins. Why didnt they have any backups. like called more forces etc. and how could they run away after 30 mins of battle. One of my frind was close to this incidense and he told me it looked like a battle field. Shame on Pakistan’s security. This is what we call Presidental Level Security. and other thing Pakistan’s Armed Forces gave up front of Few Talibans in SWAT. Whata shame…………..

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  57. avatar
    Harambe K Says:
    March 7th, 2009 at 0:49
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    For the 1st time in 10 years that I have been reading Dawn I see a significant change in reporting of your reporters. Well hats off to you. You have quite liberal and realistic in your reporting far from the right wing fundamental newspaper you were 10 years ago. You have started it and take it along to the next level.

    Todays headlines read — “Pakistan living in a constant state of denial” which I have been saying for the last 15 years, and you rebuffed your government when they started blaming others (read RAW and Indian Hand). You asked for proof, and I guess your government quickly realized the situation and immediately gave in and came out and stated that India or LTTE is not involved.
    Such is the power of Media, you can force people to change their thinking.

    Here are some challenges that I am going to throw to you Dawn. Take it up.

    1) Go find out where Dawood lives and report on it. Go find out his connections with government and publish it. Do everything in your power to make life miserable for both the Terrorists wanted elsewhere the people in ISI who have secret relationships with these guys.

    2) Go find out what is LeTs modus operandi, who are the people and what are they doing?

    3) Go to all your Madrassahs and report what is being actually taught in those Madrassahs to young children.

    Remember that the root cause of Terrorism in Pakistan is cuz Pakistan cultivated, nurtured and fostered Terrorism in its backyard to strike others, not knowing that it would turn its ugly head on you. Well the results are there for you to see. So get down to the root of all of this and expose it.

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  58. avatar comment-top

    I feel Pakistan’s main problem is clssifying terrorism , which is of many types and sizes.And to add that controlling needs to have a strong hand , which Ms.Benazir could have done.Now the present politicians are very unclear and uncertain .There is lot of confusion at the top level and everybody is uncertain of what to do next.There is a interesting topic which I had with a Pakistani taxi driver , who told killing any living thing is against the rule of life and no human being is granted permission or allowed .Islam comes above the rule .Being a Muslim is more special than being a ordinary human being , which allows certain strict way of life and good policies.With this extra power and rules , he wondered how this people do not show the common mercy of human beings.God save Pakistan.

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  59. avatar comment-top

    Pakistan was in much better condition under Musharraff, I know there were some flaws but still he was the leader of all. We need people like Mushrraff or someone like him. Throw dirt out of Pakistan, they have damaged pakistan like termites.

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    How can such heartless people claim to be muslims. I which the criminals are caught and brought to justice. I would like to see them in a bus in the middle of the road and fired upon from all sides.

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    Here’s something I dont really understand :

    Why are guns so easily available in all the world’s hot spots ??

    Are these coming from legitimate factories or from underground ones ??

    I would think the manufacture of guns is a fairly sophisticated enterprise. If so, there cannot be more than a few dozen factories world-wide. Is it so difficult to monitor the sale from these factories ??

    Maybe I’m dumb. But I’d sure like to see more discussion in the media on this issue than the usual “so-and-so is the most dangerous place in the world”

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  62. avatar
    Jam Yasir Says:
    March 6th, 2009 at 17:25
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    ICC took one of the biggest verdict in his carrier of disqualifying the fourth host of worldcup in less then 4 hrs

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  63. avatar
    L.K. Bali Says:
    March 6th, 2009 at 17:08
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    Sad, very sad about the Lahore episode of attack on Sri Lankan crickers. I on behalf of India thank to Mr. rehman Malik for giving clean chit to RAW in Lahore incident, but at the same time cannot digest the statement of the legent Batsman Miandad asking ICC to spell Cris Broad from the pannel. Surprise to see that Miandad has cheeks to praise the security by saying that there was wnough Police to protact the players. Had that not been there, Cris Broad would not have been servived. Mr. Miandad learn to hear the criticism and aloow the victim to express their feeling, especialy those whoe have gone through trauma.

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  64. avatar
    vijay, India Says:
    March 6th, 2009 at 15:58
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    Goodbye Cricket?
    Nonsense.
    It will be there for ever.

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  65. avatar comment-top

    Take a look at these two links and see what doctrines or religions can do to the human race. Indoctrination is not something what is a related term for Talibans or Kim Jung Il only, it actually starts with our mother. The very mother who gave us birth and brought us up, she taught us if we should eat non-veg. or not, she taught us if we should bow our heads down at the temple or gurudwara or at the mosque, she is the one who made us feel indebted to this god or that god, she is the one who taught us if we should play with some children or not play with this type of children. She is the one who had indoctrinated our minds in a very similar fashion, the way this Kim Jung Il is doing right now and right here on this earth . Try to understand the power of communication and information, please do not close your doors of new knowledge and thoughts, please do not stop debating (not commenting) as a free man / women, please do not stop believing that we can change the world that we live in.
    The real problem behind these and several other similar attacks lies in the lust of being a leader. Kill the aura around these so called leaders and make them mere administrators of our civil societies and you will see the changes. Start believing in the power of democracy and you will see a Barack Obama in this subcontinent as well.

    http://video.google.com/videosearch?q=north+korea&emb=0&aq=f#
    http://video.google.com/videosearch?q=north+korea&emb=0&aq=f#

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  66. avatar comment-top

    my strong condolence to the officers who died in protecting the team. The main culprit is usa,uk,aus countries becoz we have a lot of natural resources in pak, india,srilanka,bangladesh.So these countries are creating problems with in us and they are getting benefitted. Alquaida or let are developed by them only war against russia. Now it is effecting the sub continent. people should re union and save the sub continent.

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  67. avatar comment-top

    I am from India and am totally against terrorism as all of should be. After Mumbai attack eveybody in India was so appalled that there were protests all over, there were marches, everybody blasted authorities for being disorganized and callous in attitude. There were no Muslims, Hindus or Christians! All were human beings.

    Why are you people from pakistan afraid to protest? Why not take Govt to task, take Polica Commissioner of Lahore to task- ask him awkward question!! It was a shame that terrorist could move around so easily after the incident!!Wake up you Men an Women! Show your anger and make Govt do things. You are being taken for granted for too long!

    Don’t you guys want to see Sachin bat in Pakistan.; Sehwag hit Chakkas and Ishant Sharma bowl his inswinger that humbled the great Ponting!

    If you sleep now you will never see live cricket. Start a movement on the net! Haven’t you guys read of “Pink Chaddi” movement. So called Ram Bhakt’s were put to shame buy ladies all over India by sending them Pink Chaddis as a protest.

    DO SOMETHING FAST. We also love to see live cricket from Wasim Akram’s, Miandad’s and Imran Khan’s of this world. Please give up fear and start acting!

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  68. avatar
    Booster Gold Says:
    March 6th, 2009 at 13:52
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    NKG , you are wrong. It is about the promises made and then not kept.

    The PCB , backed by Govt, gave assurances on security. The point is that they were not able to deliver any type of security. Not only were they inadequte in their provision of security to the level promised, they also can be accused of making false promises just to get dissenting voices to be quiet.

    The attack shows that the terrorists can act freely without hinderence anywhere in Pakistan and that shows the Government has little or no control in these matters. It shows that the Government cannot give any assurnaces over security in Pakistan.

    So, whether it was cricketers today, or a visiting businessman tomorrow is not the point, it is a demonstration of the state that Pakistan is in. The only way you can solve a problem is by admitting it exists in the first place, and listening to the comments coming from all elected politicians, the Government is either in denial, ignorant or plain scared to admit the true state of pakistan. Thus they will never solve the problem.

    The fact that it was cricketers is irrelevant.

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  69. avatar
    T T Krishnan Says:
    March 6th, 2009 at 13:41
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    It is gratifying that Pakistan is not blaming India for the Lahore bus attack and that it is the handiwork of elements from within Pakistan. It is hoped that with this realisation there is a genuine crackdown on terrorism and dismantling of terror mechanisms and infrastructure by the civilian government.

    Simultaneously Pakistan must think of ways of providing employment/self-emplpoyment opportunties for the youth so that they do not get entangled with the gun culture and are able to channelise their energies for constructive purposes. To do so Government of Pakistan will have to make social investments which would mean cuts in armaments and reduction in their war machine.

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  70. avatar
    AMIT KANSAL Says:
    March 6th, 2009 at 13:22
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    Its a welcome remark from Mr. Rehman Malik that RAW is not involved in the attack. The time is slipping out from Pakistan hands, they need to act fast to curb the menace of extremism , or else Pakistan would become another tribal country ruled and governed by 12th century laws and thinking. This is really a crisis situation and deserves the solution of the same magnitude. I wish Pakistan supports US in demolition of terror infrastructure in its own country, because Pakistan by herself is incapable of handling this threat. Don

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  71. avatar comment-top

    Neither it is sad day for cricket, nor it is the demise of cricket in Pakistant…Cricketers are no gods and where a head of the state dies from assasin bid, who the heck the cricketers are to be protected at all cost?…

    ICC is comprised of only 10 test playing nation, out of which, Pakistan is within top 5….ICC can not afford to keep Pakistan away from International cricket for long time (for any practical purpose). It is not like football, where FIFA can take stern action, even against Maradona….

    Bad impact, IPL will be deferred and WC in India-Pak has to be shifted to some other venue. You jihadis are real stinking animals. What is their in that 7th century arabic beduenism, for which, you have to resort to so much of destruction? Jagmohan Dalmia managed to shift power of ICC administration in favour of Asian nations. Now, your bad deeds are destroying everything.

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  72. avatar comment-top

    When terrorists, grown in our country and supported by institutions in Pakistan were causing havoc everywhere, our own government, our own media was pointing fingures towards west and other countries. Our own people were evolving Jews-Hindu-Christian conspiracy theories as if the rest of the world is our enemy.

    High time we take a look at ourselves and do something before pakistan reaches the state as described by Allama Iqbal:
    ‘Tumhari daastaan tak bhi na hogi daastanon mein’

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    Talibans are going to rule the whole of pakistan very soon. They represent the pure and uncorrupted Islam. Why fight the inevitable and cause bloodshed? Pakistanis should all accept them and submit to them. Islam means submission, so submit to the pure islam.

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  74. avatar
    Amad Khan Says:
    March 6th, 2009 at 10:20
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    WHY GOOD BYE INTERNATIONAL CRICKET ONLY? Dear country mates, we are in bottom of every field, just 15 years ago 1994 In sports world champion of Hockey, cricket, Squish, Snooker, yacht race. Medicines 5 Pakistani doctors rated in world top 100s, one of them was in top 20, Top channel digging engineer of world was a Pakistani for oil for US firm. Only two Politian

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  75. avatar comment-top

    The Chairman PCB was annoyed that the umpires and match referee criticised the security…. ummm…. so I reckon we are saying security was absolutely great and still gunmen killed 6 people and caused the death of visitor cricket team. So should the world right assume that the best security in Pakistan cannot avert an incident and hence it save to believe that in tightest security the terrorist left packed backs and we caught on camera with not a person in sight to challenge them… meaning we are in virtual collapse? Should we accept world assertion that we are imploding and the negative energy within the country is so great that such a destablised nation can actually cause the armageddon?
    My advise to Chairman PCB is next time try to have an overall look on the events before speak. Such statements do more damage than he thinks he can make. I wonder what complaint he is going to take to ICC against a traumatised person and how much of support he will get.
    God help Pakistan and sports in Pakistan.

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  76. avatar
    Hira Ghazi Says:
    March 6th, 2009 at 9:58
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    The attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team is an attack on Pakistani culture as cricket is very much a part of every Pakistani’s life. When ever a country’s culture or heritage is attacked, it unleashes a long term goal of de stabilising the country, what is more agonising for my poor country is that no matter how fierce the intensions of alien forces might be (and there will always be external dangers) those are the petty and non productive pursuits of our very own leaders which make them possible.

    And for those who think Pakistan is a failed state and Pakistani’s are terrorists because of those 12 men should also realise that the 8 brave men who embraced martyrdom to save their sri lankan guests were also Pakistanis, it is for the criticising and fast jumping to conclusions world to look into their collars and see whether they could find people as brave in their ranks.

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  77. avatar comment-top

    I am sorry Sri Lanka.
    I am sorry that we failed to protect our guests.
    I am sorry we could not keep our promise.
    I am sorry that we no more can say that we protect our guests at the cost of our lives.
    I am sorry that we value personal gain more than our national pride and honour.
    I am sorry that my country does not have a leader.
    I am sorry that so called leaders are fighting while what they are fighting for is dying.
    I am sorry that I can

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  78. avatar comment-top

    The president/PM of Pakistan should immediately suspend/terminate:

    The senior security official (or officials)who were responsible for security of players.

    THe ministers and politicians in Pakistan have become so shameless that despite seeing examples of public servants’ resignations in other countries for failure in responsibilities, they do not seem to show even a slight remorse for themselves. We can now say with guarantee that the super-fattening Pakistan admistrators are a specy of totally lost conscience, and have no parallel in the world.

    Finally, the poor bus driver who put his life in danger and saved Pakistan from an absolute shame by saving the cricket players should be rewarded.

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  79. avatar comment-top

    With due respect to lives lost on 3/3 and all the comments regarding the negative impact on Pakistan cricket, I’d like to draw attention to a slightly different angle of the aftermath: the glaring inability for Pakistan’s authorities (PCB and government) to appreciate the post-survival anger and shock being felt by the match referees and umpires. Is it too unreasonable to expect that they should have invested a few minutes to demonstrate some REMOTE element of sympathy (and sensitivity) towards those targeted by issuing a formal apology to all touring parties about the glaring security lapse that occurred. Instead, one decided to retaliate by saying they will file a complaint against the match referee’s recent statements, while the govt. has failed to lay out a single, tangible action-plan in locating and identifying the gun-toting goons. Yet, there’s an expectation that Pakistan cricket should not be abandoned in this hour of need. Hello, folks?

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  80. avatar
    Sachin Sawhney Says:
    March 6th, 2009 at 5:52
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    I wish and hope the best for you guys…being an Indian…i don’t particularly enjoy what is going on in your country as i am sure it will not benefit you or us. I just hope that most of you guys stop thinking India is your enemy….we all don’t hate you or have malice towards you. My family lived in Peshawar for 1000’s of years before partition so it pains me to see Pakistan take this direction and hope that moderate and like minded people of Pakistan come out and fight this menace. Thank you

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  81. avatar comment-top

    This is clearly a security failure, did you see how these terrorists were roaming around before and after attack, as if they knew they would get away easily. There is got to be someone insider involved. It is pretty sad that no one has seen anything or reported any suspicious activity, so this cowardly act can be prevented. Police should be questioned on their back up plan

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  82. avatar
    Zeeshan Ahmed Says:
    March 6th, 2009 at 2:10
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    Where is the National Unity gone?

    In response to this unfortunate attacks in Lahore, I would just like to raise an issue on just one thing, about National Unity. Mr. Zardari and Mr. Sharif(s), they were very quick to point out national unity for Pakistan, our nation, a year ago when they wanted to remove the then President Musharraf. Where is that perticular national unity gone now? Had there been that unity for the nation of Pakistan, we would

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    I take this moment to express my views coz I know this time it will be heard the most. I am an Indian and grown up with same lectures that we all get like pak is our enemy and in pak you guys learn that India is enemy, I was always confused why? and I knew nothing much about pak and off late I started reading DAWN news paper which seems to be very transparent and gives the things as they are and not biased. Well so far I have realized that partitions was the biggest mistake in the history of sub continent and we did not gain any thing out of despite the loss of thousands of families, no matter how much hatred we carry for each other but at the end we are same people, we may live in different conditions and under different regime but our basic needs are same and we cherish the same culture. Its high time to realize our actual enemies and give up the hatred games, no matter how many wars we fight we will never win unless we give up our egos and work together for common good. USA and Canad were also enemies once upon a time and now we all know how well these two countries go along. This particular incident was more unfortunate for pak than mumbai attack was for India, this incident have not killed many people but this has killed the faith of international sport fraternity which will take a long time to heal considering the fact that those people are very little exposed to civils wars and fear the most. This incident is just another act of terror which is becoming so common in sub continent that people have started ignoring these things…after all how long we can read and comment on these stories? And I truly feel sorry for those people in pak those who initially commented that their could be an Indian hand in this and RAW might be behind it, well if RAW would have been that much capable it would have stopped many attacks in India :) ..and now I dont feel a need to say who is behind these attacks, we all know very well, but why pak’s govt is not acting against them and still waiting for VALID proofs, what could be a better proof than the Blood on busy streets? Do they want some more alarms to wake up when everything will be lost? Actually they dont have answers for all this that why they make cheap non sense comments instead of taking actions. We all need to throw away these ppl who propagates the false opinions in both sides like Shive Sena ppl in india and Zaid Hameed in pak :) , its our common problem and we have to tackle it on different sides of border. God bless humanity!

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  84. avatar
    Liaqat Ali Says:
    March 6th, 2009 at 0:47
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    A few comments and two simple questions:
    Having lived in foreign countries for the last 25 years I have never anglicized/americanized my name and always defended Pakistan but no more. I am so very sorry to have ‘enabled’ the extremists in our midst gain undue influence. I would offer my apologies to the poor policemen and their families, the Sri Lankan test players and the nation of Sri Lanka and to those in the international cricketing community who gave us half a shot. I would not blame anyone for turning their back on us, now.
    Question 1: If the Sri Lankan team was afforded “the same security as foreign heads of state” as has been quoted numerous times then should any foreign heads of state visit Pakistan. A quick aside ex-President Musharraf had more security on a private visit to perform his Friday prayers and shopping for groceries in the US and I have pictures to prove it.
    Question 2: They came, they attacked, they killed and they left and we could not ‘get’ one of them (killed, wounded or captured)? Would the government and police chiefs please and issue some mea culpas? Thank you if you read this rant but I am extremely angry with all of us for having allowed this to happen. To my Lahori friends; hun Lahore dekhen di lorh wi nahin rahi, jey tussi apney mehmanan di aye khataar kerdey ho.

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    first of all the western teams denied to come in Pakistan but after these attacks the asian teams also don’t come. its means the circket team of Pakistan is ruined because no no matches held here within 5 to 10 years……..

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  86. avatar
    Liaqat Ali Says:
    March 6th, 2009 at 0:42
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    A few comments and two simple questions:
    Having lived in foreign countries for the last 25 years I have never anglicized/americanized my name and always defended Pakistan but no more. I am so very sorry to have ‘enabled’ the extremists in our midst gain undue influence. the poor policemen and their families, the Sri Lankan test players and the nation of Sri Lanka and to those in the international cricketing community who gave us half a shot. I would not blame anyone for turning their back on us, now.
    Question 1: If the Sri Lankan team was afforded “the same security as foreign heads of state” as has been quoted numerous times then should any foreign heads of state visit Pakistan? A quick aside ex-President Musharraf had more security on a private visit to perform his Friday prayers and shopping for groceries in the US and I have pictures to prove it.
    Question 2: They came, they attacked, they killed and they left and we could not ‘get’ one of them (killed, wounded or captured)? Would the government and police chiefs please just shut up and issue some mea culpas? Thank you if you read this rant but I am extremely angry with all of us for having allowed this to happen. To my Lahori friends; hun Lahore dekhen di lorh wi nahin rahi, jey tussi apney mehmanan di aye khataar kerdey ho.

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  87. avatar
    enry_straker Says:
    March 6th, 2009 at 0:33
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    Call me an optimist but if what i see here is representative of the Pakistani spirit, then you folks will overcome – and the sun will shine again.

    First, and foremost, i would like to offer my deepest condolences to the family of the security forces who were killed in the attack.

    If what i read was right, the Terrorists had better weapons than the poor pakistani security forces. That’s a real shame. It seems to be eerily similar to what happened in mumbai.

    I would ask all of you to raise awareness of the poor quality of arms and ammunition with which a policemen are expected to tackle the terrorists. Collect money, demand change, conduct strikes if necessary. Sign Posters. Don’t stop till your policemen have both the equipment and the training to fight the terrorists. Your safety and growth is intricately tied to this.

    Second, fight to remove the cricket officials involved in this sordid mess. Mr.Ijaz Butt wants to complain to the ICC about some umpires comments. Is that the need of the hour? Is this man really the best administrator of cricket in pakistan?

    Third, organize and apply political, moral, and any other kind of prussure to find out why the security was so in-adequate. Find and fire all the people involved. There should be a very clear message sent to future political leaders and cricket administrators that their posts carry consequences.

    Fourth, make cricket a compulsary game in your madrassahs and every religious leader should attend games. This way even potential terrorists would grow up to respect the game – and maybe it could change their lives.

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  88. avatar comment-top

    This is one of the worst incident in Pakistan history. We are really shameful to our guest. We should point out those who are responsible and those who couldn’t deliver their duty,There was huge security lapses!!,Who are responsible for that?

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  89. avatar comment-top

    March 3, 2009 will be remembered in Pakistan
    as the day, the game of intenational criket died in this country

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  90. avatar comment-top

    It is so nice to see that a common Pakistani is no different from people of other nations. However, some still believe that there are “enemy” countries outside Pakistan that are there to get them. Just so you know, there is nothing in Pakistan that anyone would be after. So, there are NO enemies. Yes, your “friends” maybe destroying you, but it isn’t the so called enemies that you should to be worried about. Lastly, people like Zamil are still in denial – there is a huge difference between what happened on 9/11 and what is happening in Pakistan. Wake up brothers, it is already late, but we still have time.

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  91. avatar comment-top

    i’ve read in many of ur newspapers that we Indians were involved in Lahore attacks.. if that is d case,then this govt will lose my vote n many others.. it will be their biggest loss..
    but I’ve trust in my country that it would not stoop so low!

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  92. avatar comment-top

    pakistan has to accept the facts. it has to start building institutions now. it has to start from scratch. revise d constitution so that military will always be under d control of civilian govt. and make sure it remakes pak into a secular state.

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  93. avatar comment-top

    Hi Everyone,
    I am an Indian and I am not at all shocked by whatever happened in Lahore on 3/3/09. Pakistan is training and riding a tiger and when you ride a tiger, one day it will definitely attack you. Same thing happened to Pakistan. Pakistan have been involved in training terrorists, having terror training camps and exporting. Until Pakistan stops it, the consequences will be destructive. Pakistan must ban TET, Jamat-ud-dawa and all those organisations who are involved in killing innocent citizens.

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  94. avatar comment-top

    Really sad day for cricket and Pakistan..

    Every one is questioning security, i also believe the security was not enough but what you guys say if our own Govt. is envolved in it.

    I salute the Policemen who died in the line of duty and the Srilankan team who visited Pakistan when no other team was willing to come.

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  95. avatar
    Anand Jha Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 20:53
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    It is not a fault of Pakistan Cricket Team and also not a fault of cricket loving lovely Pakistani people.They have been deprived of a powerful democratic government who can protect them from rogue elements.
    Whatever has happened just shows how unsecured people of Pakistan are and for no fault of them they should not be penalised by restricting cricket in Pakistan.
    I think this call is for Pakistani people to come strongly against these radical unsocial elements and denounce their activities. And it is the only option left.

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  96. avatar
    Booster Gold Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 20:08
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    “I am extremely angry that we were promised high-level security and in our hour of need that security vanished,” the former England opener said on Wednesday.

    But Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Ijaz Butt refuted Broad’s allegations and said he will lodge a complaint with the International Cricket Council, the world governing body.

    “All he has said is totally untrue and fabricated,” said Butt. “It’s unfortunate that a gentleman of such a stature is saying such a thing.” ”

    How dare Ijaz Butt play a political line in this case , Broad could have have a bullet in his head , his words are based on eye witness. I am not sure which planet Ijaz Butt is living on , but the world has seen the gunmen shoot up the convoy , stop off for lunch , have a hair cut, a siesta , and then make their escape unchallenged via rickshaw!!!

    In any other counrty the only words from officialdom would be words of apology. In this case, all I hear are lies , denial, blame shifting and waffle. It amazes me that teh priorities are so wrong here.

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  97. avatar
    ambrish Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 20:03
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    the cricket is finished in pak.. it is very much sad days for pak.. the civil society should come out openly to fight terrorism and there real akas. let india and pak. fight in tendam tofight terror.

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  98. avatar comment-top

    What a shamble of a country’s organization. What on earth has happened to our security and law and order. Imagine, two persons in a bright day light in the heart of a Pakistan’s heart on a killing spree for 30 minutes and later walked on foot and not yet caught.
    WHERE IS OUR NATIONAL SECURITY.
    I, Pakistani, will have to think more than twice to visit back with my young childrens in this STATE OF A CAOS country. Shame on you all so called leaders of the parliaments.

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  99. avatar
    Harambe K Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 19:30
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    Wow, I see a lot of fingers being pointed at LeT, the same group responsible for Mumbai attacks.

    Does any-body recall — how this group started?

    Let me remind everybody — this is the same group that was formed by the Indian Airlines Hijackers — who were given a heroes welcome when they crossed the border from Afghanistan into Pakistan and the leader still roams around freely in Pakistan with a gun in his hand.

    Wake up my Pakistani friends, smell the coffee — do something.

    Just answer yourself — why is it that every terrorist problem in the world originates in Pakistan. Find a good answer to that question and most importantly act to resolve that problem. You better act now. Otherwise you will see Pakistan spiralling into Stone Age. Choice is yours.

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  100. avatar comment-top

    I believe that some of Pakistani are their own country’s enemies. I don’t care what you call your self, this is not Islam.

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  101. avatar
    Vinod Narang Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 19:27
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    First of all my heart goes to the families of the killed and wounded police men and cricketers. This is a big loss for not only the Pakistani Cricket it also a loss for the people of Pakistan. This sport was loved by every one young and old and it provided employment and financial stability to many.
    With this incident it not only the end of International ceicket in Pakistan its another win for terrorist. Pakistani government needs to take strong steps to clean this mess before Terrorists take ouver the country and this becomes the part of Afganistan.

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  102. avatar
    Sardar Hafiz-ullah Piracha Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 18:26
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    This is disgusting! and what do we do we REWARD them with a peace deal!!

    Now they not only blow up schools, brutalize the weak, attack Cricketers, blow up the 17th Century Rehman Baba NATIONAL TREASURE what next? what is next?

    Is this Islam? Is this what the Prophet(MPBUH) taught? Is this what God wants?

    Please can someone explain?

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  103. avatar
    Imran Maqsood, Dubai Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 18:18
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    Tuesday 03, 2009 was another black day in the history of Pakistan.
    WE APLOGIZE TO SRI LANKAN NATION AND THERE CRICKETERS who came to Pakistan unlike
    the English and Australians that decided to surrender to the terrorists.
    I hope things will change and we as nation will learn how to fight against this exterimism menace.

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  104. avatar
    Hindupur Rajagopalan Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 18:11
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    I am glad to note that most Pakistanis do not believe that India was involved. This is inspite of the fact that one of the Minister and one senior police official tried to implicate India. Most Pakistanis know where the fault lies and also know what politicians do when they are cornered.

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    Even God cannot help Pakistan, cause the Taliban ,the mullahs and ISI won’t allow it.

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  106. avatar
    Usman Khan Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 17:50
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    @Brad from Australia

    Thank you! Your encouragement is invaluable. The help we need from the West is:

    1. Please stand with the democrats and Rule of Law in Pakistan and squarely against the dictators and those who think nothing of the law. We got rid of the dictator, eventually, but the wrong choice made by the West made it 10x more difficult for us.

    2. Please do not shy away from nation building in Afghanistan. Guns will help defeat the terrorists, temporarily, but it’s roads, hospitals and schools that will make them irrelevant.. not just as a group but as an ideology. Please do not hold back when it comes to nation building (let alone running off to Iraq or Iran).

    We in Pakistan have to stand up unequivocally against extremism and violence in all its bearded and beardless forms. Whether others help or hinder our efforts, we must unite – like never before – and fight on. Regardless of whether the world gives us credit or blames us, likes us or dislikes us. It’s our fight, our country, our children’s future. We are prepared to die so that our children may live.

    Let me take this opportunity to thank our Indian friends for their show of maturity and solidarity. It gives us great hope in this fight.

    Last, but in no way least, I would like to extend my apologies to the Sri Lankans. But, more importantly, salute their continued magnanimous and courageous behaviour in the aftermath of the terror and horror they were subjected to.

    Let us all give thanks that we can continue to be richly entertained by the spectacular jewels of cricket: murali, sangakara, jayawardene.. to name just three.

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  107. avatar
    Manish-Bangalore-India Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 16:25
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    Dear sir,

    I am regularly following up the news articles from Dawn and the kind of article you are publishing, the kind impartial news coverage you have undertaken is astonishing. Kudos to you and your team. I sincerely hope Indian media can take few lessons out of this and report in right and appropriate manner.

    I hope and am sure Pakistan will come out of this sad event and grow and achieve new hights.

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  108. avatar
    SKrishnan Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 16:20
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    Sir,
    If you look at the Cricinfo blogs,you will see a common refrain from all – anger,regret,sympathy, with no blame games.Everyone wants Pakistan to play cricket normally. However if you go to other blogs/media, the usual blame game goes on.How long can one be in denial – it should stop at least when it is hurting you directly.I can understand uneducated people reacting this way but it is sad when so called Civil Society represented by my hero (still)Imran Khan keps blaming outsiders for all this.He somehow implies that suicide bombings by local Taliban is OK as it is not by outsiders ( RAW is raw).Is Taliban or the Al Q bothered about Pakistan – they only want to grab power.You do not need outsiders to harm you – local help is available in plenty. So when Imran talks like this ,he misguides the masses and this will not end. Now someone will say the whole thing is a conspiracy between RAW,Chris Broad,Taufel and Murlidharan!It is gratifying to see your balanced coverage.( We have our fundoos as well ).Keep it up.Inshallah there will still be peace in the sub continent .
    Regards
    Krishnan.

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  109. avatar comment-top

    Its just that what you plan is what you reap. Indians trained LTTE, they got the reward by Rajiv Gandhi getting killed. Then India banned LTTE and killed many of the members in india. So things got controlled and LTTE vanished from India. Pakistan and Americans trined Jehadis, Now jehadis are getting it back to Pakistan. And pakistan keeps to chant mantras like Muslims wont kill Muslims, Pakistanis wont harm paks nation interest. Hope this mantras will stop and Ban these jehadis and Taliban organization and kill enmass all the terrorists. Even if world things brutal it will give peace to pakistan eventually. Just see how brutal was indian crackdown in Punjab, and all the Terrorists vanished in thing air.

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  110. avatar
    Abu Zakariyya Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 15:42
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    Every dark cloud has a silver lining. Being a Muslim and a Sri Lankan I certainly feel sorry for the Sri Lankan team and wish it did not have to undergo this trauma. But the good thing is that it may mean the end of cricket in Pakistan. The stupid game of cricket which is a legacy of our colonial past and a stupid waste of time should be abandoned for Muslims to put their time to productive use. The stupid game of cricket has become a way of life for many Asian Musilms. Sports is something to be indulged in for a few hours a day – not for 5 x 8 = 40 hours per week. People think they are wise, intelligent and rationalistic but in the contrary cricket lovers are stupid, foolish and irrational. As Muslims we should realise that life is not to be just frittered in aimless and futile pursuits but in activities that will please Allah and grant us success in this life and the hereafter

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  111. avatar
    Zeeshan Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 15:21
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    I am representing Pakistan as a participant in an Exchange Program in Europe. And I feel shame when people here ask me that:
    Is there no Security for people coming from abroad to Pakistan?
    Are they so Insecure? Is there no Value of Life in Pakistan? that somebody from nowhere comes and kill someone and disappear. Nobody is there to catch the culprits?
    I hope that I can contribute some part in breaking the foreign people’ Stereotypes.

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  112. avatar
    Manish Shinde Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 14:28
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    I am a Hindu Indian, but the future safety of Pakistan as a state does indeed require a truthful allegiance to purity, as defined by true Islam. Truth and non-violence are not merely Gandhian as in India, they are our universal duty to God i.e. Allah.

    Be pious. Be humble. Tell the truth. Do not kill.

    99.0% of us follow this every day, Muslim or Christian or Buddhist or Hindu. We have to teach the other 1% of our brothers who are misled , what is the true God-fearing behaviour.

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  113. avatar comment-top

    We must fight the Taliban and other internal enemies. We must make Pakistan into a moderate state where there is freedom and equality for women. We must try or die trying.

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    With a major section of Indian and Pakistani media working overtime for bolstering the indo-pak enmity, I think Dawn should highlight the response to this blog in its headlines as a proof that we Indians don’t hate Pakistan. We empathize and sympathize with you and our prayers are always with you.

    God Bless!

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    This event in lahore must wake us all as Pakistanis.We must admit that we promised our guests the best security and left them to die on the road.It is only the good luck that they survived because of the presence of mind of a BUS driver.The poorly equiped polce men were unable to match the superior training and fire power of the inhuman terrorists.It is NOT the fault of the police department that we are now the most ashamed bunch of people on this earth but it is the neglegnce & crime of THE HANDLERS which are at the helm of affairs.They have looted and plundered this country of ours for a very long time now.
    This is not an accident it is the end result of what has been happening in this country of ours for the last 61 years.We as a people must rise and stand-up to the ruling class and make them accountable.Otherwise we are doomed.No time left to live in the glossy illusions of ISLAM and THE DEMOCRACY.The world is moving very fast.

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  116. avatar
    Amit Verma Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 13:02
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    It’s very sad all together and a very very shameful act from those predators who acts hiddenly, most of the time with their filthy intentions.

    I never understand what these ppl really want? But at the end they’ll receive nothing but a bullet or rope of justice. Hope that time comes soon..

    Heal Soon Pakistan.

    Warm Regards
    Amit Verma
    [India]

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  117. avatar
    620prince Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 12:46
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    Yes. a very unfortunate incident indeed. Obviously, without any contention, its the death of International cricket in pakistan. My heart goes to all the brave policemen who were killed. Someone should be there to take up moral responsibility for the failure to provide security. Promises were made to provide fool-proof security but there is quite a lot of inconsistency in security promised and the security actually provided. I feel really bad about it. I am glad that Indians were wise enough to call-off their tour. If it were Indians for Srilankans, the consequences would have been quite dramatic. Have there been any casualty in the srilankan team, as a matter of fact, pakistan would never see a cricket match for generations to come. Lucky that we are seeing this day in the best of those circumstances.

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  118. avatar
    Sreedharanath, Auckland Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 12:24
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    Yesterday’s incident is very unfortunate and remains a blackday forever in the history of not only Pakistan but in the history of world cricket.

    I am really glad that contrary to the immetured comments of the politicians of Pakistan and India the people of both countries are so magnanimous in expressing their grief to the persons involved and to their families. If this is the ground realities of the situation then we can be hopeful of bringing back the glory of cricket in the sub-continent with the help of people to people interaction through the free and fair media like our DAWN.

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    I am an Indian and i salute the six policemen who gave up their lives trying to defend their guests. I would like to stand shoulder to shoulder with my pakistani brothers and appeal to the entire nation of pakistan….PLEASE RISE FROM THE SLUMBER!!! if you people have the power to overthrow a dictator by street protests why are u not coming out in the streets and tackling the menace head on? In India we waste no time in shoring up public opinion against the fanatics( remember MUTHALIK of pink panty fame!!) and the are forced to yield to the civilized society. Please act fast as time is running out….

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  120. avatar comment-top

    Damien, why do we have to agree to diasgree?
    Every Indian is not a member of LTTE as not every Pakistani is a Taliban.

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  121. avatar
    Cricket Lover from India Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 11:59
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    I live in Middle east and have lots of Pakistani friends. I could not bring myself to discuss this attack with them. I do not have the heart. I love them and am sorry that this happened.
    I have a feeling that all pakistanis know what should be done and have the will to do it but not the means.

    The finger pointing and anger that is rising should not be ridiculed but should be channeled to bring about a change.

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  122. avatar comment-top

    DEAR ALL PEOPLE OF PAKISTAN

    I m deeply hurt by what happened in Lahore, this attack is not only on cricket but on commen pakistani peopeles freedom,now time has come to stand up and answer those terrorists who think they are only pakistanis and represent religion

    How can they crush sentiments of milions of pakistani people? I urge you all to retaliate and throw tham out.Every human being has right to live in peace and harmony …some cowards cant rob it from you..

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  123. avatar
    Ashok K Rout Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 11:21
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    Only Indian democracy can save Pakistan . Pakistan should join with Indian federation to save its people. Because population of Muslims in India is much higher than the Population of Pakistan. If so much Muslims are staying in India happily then why not less Muslim population can live happily? Any body has seen any political instability in India or military rule in India? No. If India and Pakistan joins hand to make a federation than the economics of both the country go high even more than America. Because both the country’s military expenditure is so much which can be used for the developments of its people . The military competitions between both the countries should be stopped. British people divided India in to India and Pakistan because they know that one day India will be the super power . So they divided India to make weaker . Now the time has come both the divided country should join again. If it happens in Germany and Vietnam then why not in India and Pakistan? Every Pakistani Should think about it ? Anybody are welcome to comment on it

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  124. avatar
    Michael Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 11:16
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    It is the saddest day for the hospitality Pakistan offers for its visitors. Would like to send a message to the leaders of Pakistan: To end making deals with terrorists (like in Swat Valley) and intensify efforts to erridicate terrorists from and around Pakistan, so that one day, the sub-continent will live in peace with each other.

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    My sympathies like with the brave police officers and the Sri Lankan cricketers. This is a terrorist attack and a cowardly attack at that. Cricket is a gentleman

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    I completely agree that there should be national apology for the incident.The Sri Lankan had showed courage to come here. Therefore,there should be an official apology to the Sri Lankan’s cricketers and nation rather than defying truth.

    In my opinion, international cricket is going to be a dream from now on, because no one dare to take another chance to put his life in danger.

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    As a Sri Lankan I wish to sympathise with the families of the policemen who sacrificed their lives to save our team. Please look after their families.

    As Sri Lankans we NEVER forget that it was ONLY pakistan who helped us when our soldiers were cornered in Jaffna in 2000. Pakistan gave us multi Barrel Rockets from their Kargil front. At that crucial hour India only offerd evacuation help. Had we taken that we would have surrendered as a nation to the terrorism. Thanks to the ammunition LTTE was defeated in that battle.

    We Sri lankans do not take crap from terrorists. We Sri lankans dont forget who helped us when we were in dire need. Dont be surprised if Sri Lanka sends a team there before everyone else. LONG LIVE PAKISTAN CRICKET! LONG LIVE PAKISTAN

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  128. avatar
    Nabeel Khalid Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 10:46
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    24 minutes of crossfire?? I fail to understand why couldn’t the backup reach the spot? Yes, as someone mentioned above, the police station is between 5 to 10 ten minutes even on foot, I’d be damned if some official could enlighten me, how come the vehicles of police and Elite force that roam about in the city could not reach the spot? After all it’s our right to know, it’s our money they burn in fuel and maintenance.

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  129. avatar comment-top

    why every pakistani is using words like “god helps pakisatn” “pray for pakistan” etc . God will not help unless civil society of pakisatn comes out and protest against your own state policy or politician.

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    We do apologize to all Sri Lankan people and players that we could not provide them security. This is most shameful incident for all of us as Pakistani that we could not protect our guests. Unfortunately our rulers are still shamelessly sitting in the office. At least current unelected Governor should resign immediately on his performance. It is his government

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  131. avatar
    Hussain Abbas Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 9:47
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    I dont have the words to express my feelings for the innocent lives lost & for the injured Srilankan players & upires. We seek apology from the Srilankan team & board & from the Srilankan country for what happened due to negligence of our security authorities. Pls forgive us. Ameen.

    God Help Pakistan

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  132. avatar
    Ahmed Qadri Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 9:43
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    The problem with our security agencies is that they can not forsee the required security measures. In my opinion this attack is not on Srilankan cricket team but an attempt to vanish social life in Pakistan. Cricket has been the only force that drives the nation but now with this incident a question arises that is there any other platform that hold us as a single nation?

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  133. avatar
    Kanishka Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 9:43
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    Please accept my condolence for the lives the Policemen who died. It was really a sad day for all peace loving people. Pakistan is increasingly becoming terror infested all over. I feel that for the time being Pakistan should not mix up too much with anything that starts with K, for instance, Kalashnikov Kulture, Kashmir, Kabul, Kandhar, Khairati money from Amrika, Kayani etc.

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  134. avatar comment-top

    As you sow so you reap.

    Terrorism has been used against India as instrument of foreign policy by Pakistan, now the same terrorists have turned against the govt machinery. Unless Pakistani govt cancels all pacts with Taliban and fall on them like a brick of wall nothing will improve. Terrorists evidently have penetrated security and get all the information. I just hope nukes don’t go to jihadis.

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  135. avatar
    Narayan Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 9:16
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    Dear Neighbours…

    Forget about cricket. Save yourself from Pakistan becoming a Taliban state. Taliban/Al Qaeda have sights on the nukes you have…they just need their hands on them. I hope this day never comes. Though our Indian politicans are not great, it is such a pathetic state to see your major political parties fighting each other, than making at least an attempt to improve lives of people. After many Mush years you have a democratically elected government…and these leaders will make you feel again the dictators are better.

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    The Pakistan government was extremely complacent in providing security to their visitors. They had a good opportunity to show the cricketing world that they can provide quality security to visiting teams and Pakistan is after all not such a dangerous place to be. But in turn they turned themselves into a complete laughing stock. To make matters worse a minister from the government has blamed India for the attacks, which show how, fool hardy can they get!

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    My prayers are with the Pakistani people. I have complete confidence that you will stand up against these uncivilized extremists and you will bring peace to your beautiful country. And the rest of the civilized world will be standing with you.

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  138. avatar
    Cricket Lover!!! Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 7:12
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    A very sad day for cricket and especially for Pakistan this is the end of international cricket in the country for sometime.

    I praised Sri Lanka cricket team coming over to Pakistan to help us and the praises to bus driver whose brave act bring them to the point of safety.

    These attackers don

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  139. avatar comment-top

    Ramiz Raza, Imran Khan, no need to apologise for anything. Do not let this crisis go waste. Organize for the resurgence of Pakistan. Imran you can do it

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  140. avatar
    dilip mahanty Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 6:12
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    We have many friends from Pakistan in Australia and it is always a very warm and cordial relationship when we meet. Our discussions cover every subject under the sun and not surprisingly there is a commonality of views in most matters.We have no hesitation going to mosques and churches and regard Jesus & Prophet Mohammad with equal respect as we would Krishna or Ram because all of them were sent at different times of history to guide people to God or Allah. When radicals and bigots misintepret religious texts to suit their own selfish ends, the civil society, which is in majority, suffers.Twisted religious leaders and venal politicians often combine to oppress the moderate but silent majority because they feel “silence is assent”! Both India and Pakistan have suffered because of muted response from the majority to the evils that dog their societies.It is up to us, the sensible majority, to stand up to these destroyers of society and say”enough is enough”. We pray for the people of Pakistan and hope that they stand up unitedly and give the powers that be the message that they had enough! Once this message goes through strongly the terrorists will not be harboured in the country to continue their mayhem!Even the extreme religious leaders who are sacrificing these misguided youths to further their own cause will have second thoughts!

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  141. avatar comment-top

    AlsalamuAlaykum,
    It is a very sad incident indeed. I thank and appreciate the Sri Lankan team for being brave and comming to our country to play cricket. May Allah make it easy for them.
    Furthermore advice for Pakistanis is that no foreign help is going to come from outside (i.e. IMF, US, China, etc.). We have to put our trust in Allah, and work on solutions for our problems. Its our fault that we let group of people hijack Islam, because we ourselves don’t make effort to learn about this beautiful way of life and implement it in our lives.

    Anyway we currently have a lot of enemies externally and internally that we need to deal with. Allah protect us against all our enemies and give us victory over them. aameen.

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  142. avatar
    sajid fahim Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 4:32
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    I would suggest that Pakistan team should immediately plan to visit Sri Lanka to show how the people of Pakistan feel about the incident, with some occassion where our ‘peace ambassadors’ speak to the public about how people feel.
    The spirit of the game should not be weakened by such cowardly acts.

    I think the only way to fight terrorism is by propagating peace (non violence).

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  143. avatar
    Mechanic Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 3:20
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    What happened in Mumbai and Lahore is a disgrace to both the nations of India and Pakistan as many foreigners were also killed in Mumbai.But just look at the audacity of Pakistani ministers who failed in their duty to protect the guests and there has been no resignation as yet. This shows that the crux of the problem is not extremists or some foreign element as there are always enemies to peace loving people but the total lack of sincerity to the nation by these ministers whose security arrangements are far greater than for the Srilankan players.Lack of justice and corruption has corroded our security and peace.

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  144. avatar
    kapil singh Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 3:12
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    this is really a bad news for all cricket lovers ..

    i appeal to pak gov.plsdismantel the terrorism infrastructure in ur country elsy pak will have to pay a heay price ..

    pls click the following link and read the news(Pakistan a greater threat to world than Afghanistan
    5/03/2009 1:00:00 AM
    ) by australain news paper (canberra-capital city of australia)

    http://www.canberratimes.com.au/news/world/world/general/pakistan-a-greater-threat-to-world-than-afghanistan/1450806.aspx

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  145. avatar
    Mahir Chaudhry Dallas TX Says:
    March 5th, 2009 at 2:46
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    Good by Cricket, because of negligence of Pakistan Government the last nail has been hammered to the coffin of feature cricket in Pakistan.

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  146. avatar comment-top

    May god help Pakistan and its nice people from these insane barbaric and fanatic terrorists. Terrorists have no religion or country. If today it is killing others, tomorrow could be our turn.

    Never support directly or indirectly any terrorist. Tomorrow could be your turn!

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  147. avatar comment-top

    I’m an Indian living in US.

    Pakistan gets a bad name everyday and for all the good people who have criticized this act, should not forget and keep the awareness longer so something will be done about it and crimes like this are not allowed to happen again.

    Same goes to India after Mumbai, people have forgotten and moved on, this is exactly what the perpetrators of such crimes want.

    Civilians are soft targets, and Indian and Pakistani society are very soft indeed.

    It was obvious how poorly trained the policeman in Mumbai and in Lahore were. They neither have the means nor the training to put a fightback. Start there first. Improve that, and use modern technology such as GPS and video surveillance to analyze raw footage and improve tracking and analytics.

    Venkat

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  148. avatar comment-top

    I am a Pakistani American and love my Mother nation to death. Its really hard for me to fathom that a Nation with such a powerful intelligence was unaware of anything. Knowing the security situation, why a visiting team was not accorded a heavier security. In the eyes of the World Pakistan is only doom and gloom which really saddens me and all we as Pakistani are interested in is power plays and short cuts to fortune without any regard to the National interest. I plead to all these religious nuts and Mullahs, that please leave Pakistan alone. If there is no Pakistan then there will not have a place to play their petty politics.

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  149. avatar comment-top

    Hope, at least the people of Pakistan understand the current situation of Pakistan, which has been created by their govt policies and also religious fanatics. The constant support of govt towards islamic terrorists has now backfired and its eating up your own country. Wake up and stop sponsoring the terror, else your country is gone forever. Look at the world its marching ahead and u guys still opt to go backwards. I assume you can estimate the sufferings of humans and monetary loss in mumbai.

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  150. avatar comment-top

    After the Lahore incident, Pakistani cricketers and PCB authorities are asking for international support for crickrt to go on in the country. Isnt this a joke ?
    Why are they going to other counntries , when they should be reaching out to the authorities in their own country ? It sounds like, some pakistani is murdered in Lahore and people are going to other countries to get justice. There are people in pakistan establishments who support such elements, there are people in pakistan who are big sympathizers of such elements. Rest of the people unknowingly (or knowingly)support such elements. Otherwise, how can such elements flourish in every city of pakistan ? No one is captured of the 12 attackers, does it make sense ? Were there only 5 policemen on duty who died ? If there were more, then what did they do ? They could not shoot or capture any of the attackers ? If there were only 5 guards on duty, then is that a proper security arrangement ? There are endless questions to be asked.
    Bottomline is, such terrorist elements are supported by the people within them only. In the govt, it looks like there are more of these elements. If you cant get rid of these elements, then no body can help you, not even god.

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  151. avatar comment-top

    This is really bad day for Cricket fans. We don’t want Pakistan cricket to die this way.Pakistan cricket needs to survive for sake of cricket fans;otherwise it will be boring to see only couple of counties fighting it out.We want to see talent of Pakistan. It’s time for all subcontinent countries to stand together and fight this menace. We want to lead a normal life.No point in just pointing fingers at each other.

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  152. avatar comment-top

    Aasalamu Alaikum Pakistan,
    Its Muthu Kumar from Chennai India. Its a very sad day for cricket. Terror has no religion; it craves for the blood of innocent to get international attention. As India is grappling under the horendous attack that took almost 200 innocent lifes, we share our sorrow with pakistan especially cricket lovers. The land that produced one of the greatest fast bowlers and batsmen of all time will remain dormant in the cricketing world for some years. This is sad. I urge all pakistan brothers & sisters to shun terrorism. We can still live in peace; God willing.
    Warm Regards & Best wishes from Chennai India.

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  153. avatar
    Ishtiaq Ahmed Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 23:41
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    The assault on Sri Lankan cricketers is, indeed, an assault on humanity. The perpetrators of this attack can never be well-wishers of Pakistan. They are sick people whose acts of barbarism are hurting the cause of the country in a big way. They are scaring away prospective investors from investing in Pakistan which is not good for the country’s economy.It is high time that the Government should come up with a solid plan to combat this menace. There is no room for procrastination. The government owes it to the nation and to the world at large to establish its writ in the land and ensure that such acts are not repeated in future.
    My heartfelt condolences to the families of those brave policemen who laid their lives while defending their honourable guests.I also wish to thank non-Pakistani friends especially Indians who expressed solidarity with Pakistanis on this tragic occasion. I am currently in Netherlands where I know quite a few Indians. They are nice and friendly. Pakistanis are no different. I wonder from where this mistrust comes in. I know politicians on both sides of the border are incorrigible species but at least the masses can take our two nations forward. I am optimistic about it. The history of Europe is not much different than ours. Now these countries are part of one Union and reaping rich dividends of peace. You can travel from one country to the other without having to worry about your visa. They also learnt their lessons the hard way i,e after fighting some bloody wars. I have no doubt that Pakistan and India will eventually realize that their larger interests lie in peace and not in chaos.

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  154. avatar comment-top

    It’s a time for soul searching. Instead of pinpointing fingers at each other let all the peace loving people of the Indian subcontinent unite. Regardful salute to the Pakistani policemen who sacrificed their lives. Let them not be the unsung heroes like before.
    Let us get rid of of religious fundamentalism whatever form or colour it belongs to.
    My heartfelt sympathies to the people of Pakistan. Seeing the blog I feel reassured that still sane voices are there. May be this will be the harbinger of a new “DAWN”

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  155. avatar comment-top

    It is a sad day for Pakistani cricket and cricket in general. Cricket is a common subcontinent culture that brings people of subcontinent together. Few misguided bigots robbed this too. I hope it serves as a wake up call for the most peace loving Pakistanis to stand up against misguided religious thinking of a handful few that is taking the entire subcontinent hostage.

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  156. avatar
    Jamil Ahsan Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 22:57
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    What to say, I am in Canada and friends with Sri Lankans and Indians. They called immediately and the only thing they heard from me was silence. Thats all we are left with, silence, as no words can wash the filth on Pakistan by its own people. Don’t anyone give me the “External Hand” crap. Only we are to blame, we as a nation and as individuals (politicians and ex presidents) have created this monster of terrorism. Let me tell you friends, the way things are going I am not too hopeful we can resist them. Unless of course there is a popular uprising against them.

    God help us.

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  157. avatar
    Yasir Mushtaq Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 22:45
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    Its very very annoying to see thousand of people protesting against

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  158. avatar comment-top

    I am from India and felt extremely terrible about the attack on the Lankan players. After reading the comments by the readers I felt that there is such an outpouring of grief and anger at the events taking place.

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  159. avatar
    thomas d'costa Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 21:26
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    the only solution for tackling islamic terrorism is by taking away their constituency. how? large numbers of pakistanis must convert to other religions when islam is no longer the religion of majority of people in pakistan the question of islamic law will never arise. this will give you pakistani people a chance to progress in life .

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  160. avatar
    jairaj shinde Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 21:16
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    All Pakistanis should do some introspection now. all through the 90s when your jihadi groups were wreaking havoc in kashmir and rest of india you people were only too happy to drop money in donation boxes placed in restaurants movie halls and public places. you people were the first to recognise Taliban govt when it came to power why are you running away from it now? you were the ones who wanted an Islamic republic and now why are you so reluctant or unwilling to have sharia law in pakistan? You people are hypocrites at least the Taliban are straightforward they hate us and they say so openly. you people pretend to be friends and then stab in the back, we have seen after 26/11 and so many times in the past. your country is a sinking ship. what goes round comes round .

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  161. avatar comment-top

    I am an Indian living in USA. My sincere condolences to the policeman and their families who lost their life protecting the lives of guests. I believe 99.999% of the population is peace loving but 0.001 percent is controlling the lives of the majority. This is unfortunate but I have full confidence that Pakistan will rise once again.

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  162. avatar
    Bharath, Chennai Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 20:46
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    My prayers to men in uniform who sacrificed their life

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  163. avatar
    Ahsan Siddiqui Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 20:18
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    Yesterday morning I woke up and being the huge cricket fan I am logged on to cricinfo.com to check the latest score. What I saw on the website left me in utter shock. I just sat there looking at the headline and not daring to click on it for about a minute.

    This was a very big lapse in security. It doesn’t matter who the attackers were or what their motives were. It is just very sad and embarrassing that we were unable to provide security for our guests, that such a high profile violent act was allowed to be conducted in one of our major cities, and all the attackers were able to escape.

    I echo the sentiments raised by other people on this board, it is high time that the educated and moderates made their voices heard. Our current politicians seem to be too busy trying to oust each other.

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  164. avatar comment-top

    Yes the attack planned in Austria, UK, Australia etc.. except in Pakistan. The attackers came from unknown land and had no links to Pakistan. This lie is true until Pakistan is hijacked by Taliban.

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  165. avatar
    Booster Gold Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 20:13
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    The Pakistani people are indirectly responsible for yesterday.

    They have tolerated corrupt , inept and selfish politicians for so long it was inevitable that something like this was bound to happen.

    I saw on UKTV yesterday The Pakistani high commissioner to UK saying that “Security was presidential level”. The news interviewer was aghast as it is obvious to everyone that this was not true. Read two posts down and our friend in Karachi describes as eyewitness what level of security there was . Yet this typical Pakistani politician blatantly lies and says everything is ok!!! The people of Pakistan must demand more from their ‘elected’ officials and get competent people in that can actually contribute to resolving the issues the country faces ie Terrorism, Corruption, etc.

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  166. avatar
    Dhananjayan Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 18:54
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    To the people of pakistan we feel sorry for what happened in Lahore.
    I think youngsters should not listen to the dirty polticians and waste their time.
    You know what is right and what is wrong.
    Come out and make peace permanent in our region
    Dhananjayan
    Indian from U.K

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  167. avatar
    Mohammed Tabrez Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 18:49
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    Peace be with you.
    i am an indian and a muslim and a patriot for my country just like you are for yours -and i dont have any words of advice for any pakistanis – be it here on this Forum or the general public/administration or the government – you guys can run your own country and you dont need any advice from anyone outside on how to run your own country. what i could not understand is how could a dozen thugs calling themselves Jihadis (and Shamelessly running away from the crime scene ) – how could they gain access to the route outside the stadia – with hand grenades and machine guns and rocket launchers – inspite of the so called security blanket and ironically – manage to escape unhurt – without a single terrorist injured/killed/captured – its a shame if this what is called as providing a security blanket given to a “head of state”.. i hope we could get to see some paki players in action in the IPL – if the PCB atleast allows them to play here in india now that their Ego’s have been blown apart.

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  168. avatar
    Aaruni Upadhyay Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 18:30
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    I feel sorry to quote this but how can a group of 14 gunmen fire for 35 minutes and then escape. Why was the security so pathetically low? There must be something very covert behind all this.

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  169. avatar
    Yasir Mushtaq Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 18:14
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    I along with the whole Pakistan nation feel ashamed of what has happened with our guests yesterday, guests, who were here to help us when we were in need. We feel sorry to them. Pakistani Nation is a nation of people who are known for their hospitality and love. People who attacked the heartbeat (cricket) of Pakistan, can never be Pakistanies. Its the high time for all Pakistanies to rise up and stand against this present turmoil.

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  170. avatar
    Vikash Kr. Verma Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 18:06
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    I am very hurt and shocked with this barbaric attack on representatives of humanity i.e. Sri Lankan Players or players in general. I pay homage to all those who lay down their life protecting Sri Lankan Players !

    I can only imagine what would have happened if this happened on Indian Cricket Team; on players like Sachin, Dhoni etc. players who are revered in India as second to God only

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  171. avatar comment-top

    So to add to the fact that the men is pakistan defined a women’s role in her life through those sharia laws in the NW prov. Add to the fact that pakistan can’t even own / control it’s own land in NW prov… now you have a pakistan that has its self funded terror camps, funded to kill it’s own people. The irony.

    I see people in this blog going ” Long live Pakistran”. well its not the life/tenure that is in question. It’s the quality of life that has gone down the drain. I guess you can still keep producing those great leaders through the madarasa’s .

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  172. avatar comment-top

    Pakistan establishment has to come out of denial mode and accept the issue facing the country. No country can function as a democracy if it has three parallel centres of power – the civilian elected government, the Army along with ISI and the extremists or terrorists. You can’t negotiate with the terrorists and you can’t allow the role of army to change. Until and unless this is corrected these kind of issues will keep cropping up, understand Swat is only 150 kms from Islamabad. They will move south with the help of the sympathisers in the armed forces. Writing is on the wall decide what you want to do

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  173. avatar
    Socrates Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 17:46
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    While going to my workplace I saw Sri Lanknan players’ convoy twice in Karachi.
    What I observed here in Karachi was
    1- Very poor security arrangements were made i.e. only two/three police mobiles were escorting their the bus carrying guest players.
    2- Speed of the convoy was not very high, it was traveling around 55/60 KM/Hr on Karsaz Road that connects Shahra-e-Faisal to National Stadium.

    What I understand from my observation that it was very easy to target the convoy especially near Liberty as there is some sort of round about there and speed of convoy must have been quite slow. That tragedy could have been easily avoided if some personnel of law enforcing agencies were posted there.
    This is really unfortunate that our personnel of Elite Police were not even able to shoot any attacker, who remained at the place of attack for around 20 minutes.
    According to one of my office colleagues, who is actually from Lahore, there is a police station in the vicinity of firing incidence and according to him police could have easily reached there in less than ten minutes on even foot !!!

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  174. avatar
    Shehryar Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 17:10
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    Its just not internation cricket that has seen its end in Pakistan but for the matter of fact noone else from the international community will visit pakistan anymore. Every country has travel advisories on pakistan and these terrorist activties against foriegn citizens will just ensure that pakistan becomes a no-go zone.

    This all will hurt the country a lot in the long run. We are already a borderline failed state and falling into complete anarchy doesnt look far off on the horizon. Unless the regular citizens of pakistan shuns the religious fanatics(their fanatical view of pakistan acting as if its the only muslim nation in the world), and extermism in general; pakistan will be a failed state that even the poorest nations in africa will surpass very soon.

    Quaid-e-azam must be turning in his grave. I think if he knew Pakistan will be what its today I am sure he wouldnt have even bothered to fight for our independence.

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  175. avatar
    Noor Muhammad Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 16:59
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    Needless to say that we feel embarrased for not being able to thwart the attack.

    our policemen did bravely. they laid down their lives, in the line of duty. they are our heroes, role models for the Army, the politicians and rest of the citizenary.

    But I just don’t understand how can this be termed as a death of Pakistani Cricket? Would the world be able to forget Imran Khan? Haneef Muhammad? Sir Wasim Akran? Waqar Younis? Inzmam al Haq? Javed Miandad? Shahid Khan Afridi?

    And what about the tripple century scored by our captain?

    there is a lot of cricket in Pakistan. History of cricket is nothing if you take Pakistan out.

    Untill normal times arrive, i.e. untill USA gets lost from Pakistan and Afghanistan, the PCB shall plan all international cricket in other countries of the world. We will watch them through television, if we can’t see them live. It is not a death of cricket in Pakistan. It is just a period of bust; a shocking one.

    As a resilient nation, we shall not forget that we are here to stay, grow and flourish.

    The civil war of USA was as gruesome and bruital as we are facing today. But things are changing. If would not have been changing, we would not have faced any resistenc from the extremist quarters. They know they are losing. We shall defeat them. On and off the field.

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  176. avatar comment-top

    India and Pakistan together can do wonders. This is very clear from this discussion. Together we must take some actions against these peole who do not want Peace to prevail. I am an Indian, and I still remember the Match in which a combined team of Indian and Pakistani criketers played against Srilanka cricket team. May God Bless India and Pakistan.

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  177. avatar
    Raj, India Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 16:54
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    This incident was shocking to world. But I saw footage on tv that Police station is just 100 ft from the terror attack site. But local police did not identified to those 12 terrorist with ammunition standing in front of the police station. All police staff should be fired who were on duty at that time. All 12 people flees away without any hurdle and safely. I am sure that Dogs can smell hand granade and ammuntions. Was there any action from police dogs who were just behind terror site?

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    Pakistani government in compensation for each soldier killed has announced rs 500,000/ approx

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  179. avatar
    Adil Rizvi Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 16:23
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    Bad for Pakistani cricket. Yes sure. But disastrous for Pakistan as a nation. Reading comments in some Pakistani papers and saw an interview with Imran Khan yesterday, pointing the finger towards “foreign elements”. What rubbish! Well, just continue to delude yourself. Things will go from bad to worse if Pakistanis don’t acknowledge the obviously flawed and doomed religion/ethnicity based political/social status quo.

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  180. avatar comment-top

    Cricket is the biggest uniting factor in Pakistan and the terrorists want to segregate the people of Pakistan by depriving them of cricket.
    I think if ICC and other Cricket boards have the courage to fight against terrorism then there should be a cricket match in Gaddafi stadium immediately. It will be an answer to the terrorists that the people will not surrender to their cowardice and brutal acts.

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  181. avatar comment-top

    A few weeks prior to visiting Pakistan Sri Lankan team was in Bnagladesh where I met with Mahela and Sangakara along with their coach on the tee no 1 of Kurmitola Golf club. After casual greetings I requested the gentlemen to visit Pakistan and they asked if I was a Pakistani which acknowledged. They were very much humble down to earth players and said they would anyway it’s just a matter of schduling it appropriately given they were supposed to visit India as well.
    I have yet to come across such humble and polite cricket stars and my heart goes out to their sportmanship much more after what happened to them in Lahore. They were composed and never regretted their visitng Pakistan but the incident. I hope President Zardari forgets about winning the conflicts with Sharifs and focuses more on winning the war !!! he better have a long term vision to get the nation their pride back !!!!!!!!

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  182. avatar
    Sameera Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 15:43
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    This was another black day in the history of Pakistan. Lahore is one of the most beautiful and cosmopolitan cities of pakistan and great people of this city did not deserve this.

    I hope things will change and we as nation will learn how to fight against this exterimism menace. Pakistanis cannot be held hostage by these cowards.

    Long Live Pakistan!

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  183. avatar
    saul deane Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 14:49
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    From Australia I just wanted to share in your tragedy. What a great loss to Pakistan and the cricketing world this is. What can one say ?

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  184. avatar comment-top

    Since morning I have been reading comments on this blog. The message is clear, we can not wait any further for somebody to come and help us, un-till we help ourselves.

    “The only thing necessary for triumph of evil is that good men do nothing” – Edmond Burke

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  185. avatar
    Sumit Arora Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 14:23
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    To the people of the great Pakistan.
    I am your brother born in India. The pain felt by you is incomparable. I cant even imagine what my brothers and sisters are going through. My everyday problems seem so little, and insignificant. To my brothers and sisters, we all are with you. May all of us rise as one strong group and crush the Taliban. After reading your comments, i feel attached to you. i feel love flowing from my heart for you and i feel the pain.

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  186. avatar comment-top

    A great tragedy of un-proportionate loss with un-precedented repercussions that might take decades if not centuries to heal and bring things back to normal.

    Like all those who deeply love and adore this land of the pure, my heart, soul and mind is bleeding. This is unbelievable and incredible for anybody and everybody. While sitting at a distance of more than twelve thousand miles from Lahore, I am no exception to it and after reading this sad news in

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    I believe the fault lies within us. It was major security failure from our side.
    Your enemy will hunt you down when ever he gets an opportunity. I feel sorry.

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  188. avatar
    Anujit Mitra Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 13:57
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    I have gone through the comments. I appreciate the writers for sharing their feeling on such an important development. I particularly thank Joe Blow for listing actionable steps. Many of them are however applicable for all the four nations of our sub-continent. Talibanisation of Pakistan is a major worry for India as well as Bangladesh. LTTE is as much a threat for India as it is to Srilanka. BDR mutiny similarly is a threat. Mao-ists growth in large part of India would potentially pose a threat to all if not arrested soon.
    What is important to note that military solution is similar to Aleopathic medicine, which treats the symptoms but have huge side effects. It only provides temporary relief but the disease come back again. The cure must come from within. Which means we the people of the subcontinent need to stand up and clean up our countries systems. After all, the failure of the state is the breeding ground for the terrorists.

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  189. avatar
    Nara E Tadbir Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 13:50
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    Shame on us for allowing this fundamentalist cancer to hold us hostage for so long. This is not what Pakistan stands for. This is not what Islam stands for.

    Clearly, Pakistan is at the cross-roads. We could either become progressive and be part of the rest of the world and join the road to prosperity. Or fall back to the dark ages where we live under fear.

    There are powerful forces at play that would like nothing better than an illiterate and economically poor Pakistan. Such a Paksitan is ripe for recruiting “martyrs” and for ruling with the iron fist of religion where no dissent is allowed and no one can question fundamental beliefs.

    I feel the urge to reach out and form an alliance of like minded individuals who won’t let Pakistan fall into the abyss. Our way of life, our national past-time, our ability to be part of the world are at stake.

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  190. avatar
    Abdul Qadir Iani Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 13:39
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    Good bye cricket, good bye cricketing fans!! This marks the seal of proof to smear the end of cricketing in Pakistan. One thing that glued nations was sports; now that ray of light has diminished. What a shame!

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  191. avatar comment-top

    To my Pakistani friends, my heart and souls are with you. Whom so ever involved in this cowardly act must be given severe punishment. I offer my deepest condelences to the families of brave policemen and other security officials/public who lost their lives – saving the lives of their country’s guest.

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  192. avatar comment-top

    what happened in Lahore is a part of the overall strategy to bifurcate Pakistan from international community. My sadness has elevated to the notion that we are not prepared to face many of the issues on an intellectual level. ITS HIGH TIME that we the people of Pakistan show some sort of commitment to understand the changing dynamics of international politics and respond accordingly.

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  193. avatar
    Wajahat Ahmed Shamsi Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 13:24
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    It was a very sad day for International Cricket. Cricket which was, instrumental in establishing peace amongst Pakistan & India being attacked shows our neighbors don’t want peace. It would also hurt the economy as it would stop in-flow of money in-terms of Advertisement and Broadcasting Rights. Plus add further to the image of the country which is being showed as failed state. May Allah Protect our beloved nation! Amen.

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  194. avatar
    Muhammad Omar Itikhar Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 12:52
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    I have no words to express the grief and agner that I have regarding the events that unfolded on March 3, 2009 in Lahore. As far as cricket in Pakistan is concerend, it has now died for sure. This time, we are not going to get a second chance. I don’t know why such immoral and indecent incidents happen in our country. Sports was the only passionate endeavor we Pakistani’s idulged the most. We forget our pains and troubles, but now there shall be no more cricket. Good bye World Cup – Good bye Cricket!!!

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  195. avatar
    Omer Jawad Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 12:43
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    Everybody has succumbed to this deadly event. It was a disappointment that Mr. Haroon of ICC was himelf talking about no cricket in Pakistan when the gentleman sitting beside him was more realistic when he cited example of Ireland while implying that cricket can still come back to Pakistan.

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  196. avatar comment-top

    i would request all the minded people from both the side get together and raise a common voice. Lets not give it into the selfish politicians and the extremist on either side.
    we the educated urban people need to get into majority to solve this problem.
    Lets get united on some platform

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  197. avatar
    mrinmayee Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 12:19
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    all i can feel after yesterday’s attack is a deep sense of anguish. may the policemen and civilians who died in defending their esteemed guests rest in peace. i also feel very sad for pakistan cricket and the pakistani cricket fans who are mad about the game like all of us here in mumbai, india. may there be peace in the subcontinent in our lifetime. amen

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  198. avatar comment-top

    I think it is time we realized that our strength is in unity and it has to start from every home. We need to start loving our own customs, traditions and religious values and unite instead of dividing the society into rich and poor, educated and uneducated etc. our strength is from each other and only then will we be able to become a strong nation and root out these hateful elements in the country that exploit out weaknesses and disunity. Lahore is already a mess right now.

    So many have mourned for injuries to sri lankans,very few have thought of the policemen who sacrificed in the line of duty, I guess they are not considered valuable as they were not the target, but they had families and children and people who loved them. Maybe we should go visit them and sympathize with their family rather than blaming them for srilankan injuries. they are like our brothers in Islam. May Allah rest their souls in peace and raise them in an honorable state. Aameen

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  199. avatar comment-top

    Sad Day for Cricket all over the world. I have been reading the comments and should appreciate the maturity shown by my Pakistani friends in not blaming India, as is the tendancy of us Indians and Pakistanis from before. Whats done cannot be undone but let yesterdays incident be a catalyst in waking up he younger generation to stand up to the government, fundamentalists and all other people giving our region a bad name all over the world.

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  200. avatar
    Harish Kumar Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 12:09
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    Most unfortunate day in the history of cricket. As a cricket fan I feel very sorry for Sri Lankan Team. Time to unite and fight against this radicals. Lets hope such incident won

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  201. avatar
    Soul Doctor Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 12:07
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    With due respect, I would say the relevant Government officers should have the courtesy to resign their respective posts as the have failed in their duty to protect our peaceful visitors, it is one of the saddest days in the history of Pakistan.

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  202. avatar
    Wazirzada Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 12:01
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    First of all a lot could have been done in terms of providing a fool proof security. Secondly, it is a shame that when the whole world is grilling Pakistan for a lot of things; our leaders instead of standing together are fighting with each other. Thirdly, I noticed that the attackers were wearing trousers; that should help a lot to short list the terrorist outfits responsible.

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  203. avatar
    Ashwini Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 11:59
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    I am an Indian and i want to offer sympathies to the brave policemen who sacrificed their lives to protect their guests. God Bless your families.

    Hope Pakistan govt recognises the sacrifices and makes efforts to take care of their families.

    This is a tragic incident and really hope Govt can arrest the culprits and punish them.

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  204. avatar comment-top

    May Allah give these responsible people in power enough sense and courage to make Pakistan a pure place, a safe place and a happy place; for its citizens and for its guests. We need to correct this menance now and need to act without a second of delay.

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  205. avatar comment-top

    To the people of Pakistan, the world stands with you ready to fight terrorism. To those who say they feel emabarrased or ashamed, you have nothing to be ashamed about. You are facing an evil and ruthless group, I wanted you to know that the West do not think any less of the people of Pakistan because of this, and that you are not alone, you are our brothers and we will do whatever we can to help you return to peace (if you want our help).

    From Australia

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  206. avatar comment-top

    Pakistan is a cricket loving country and incidents like yesterday is really shameful for every common man in Pakistan……..

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  207. avatar comment-top

    I know that we are all sad on this day, but let this be our awakening call to condemn all forms of terrorism.

    We cannot have a few people hold a vibrant nation to ransom.

    Long live Cricket!!

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  208. avatar comment-top

    onething is clear someone trying isolate pakistan from international community

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  209. avatar comment-top

    We Pakistanis are in a state of denial. For 62 years all we have done is to blame others for our problems. We never realized we created most of them. While alot may not condone it in public tell me one religious party that has come out publicly against these hell mongerers? None! in their heart they condone it.
    What happened is a symptom of the breakdown of the nation where values are not honoured. No one would ever attack a guest who came to support us in time when no one wanted to visit. We have proven the world right that Pakistan is in a state of collapse and a much more dangerous place to be or to reckon with than Iraq and Afghanistan put together.
    Time has come for us as a nation to decide the course we want to take. We have to appreciate we cant fix our problems with band aids we need major surgery or else we should get ready that the road we have chosen for ourselves will result in the collapse of this country in all forms.
    Cricket is not going to survive in isolation and if dont come out strongly against this then I can see the writing on the wall.
    What ashamed me further was how Sherry Rehman gave an interview to BBC. Not an ounce of remorse on what happened.
    What apology can you give to your guest who stood with you when all alienated you?
    I agree with Kamal that the most serious thing is no one came out to protest. They can protest NS disqualification which in my view is not as big an issue as this but not for this. What message are we sending to our friends and the world?

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  210. avatar comment-top

    This is very painful event. Terrorism is spreading like cancer in Indian subcontinent. Indian & Pakistani people and leaders need to come together to fight this menace together otherwise our enmity and mutual distrust is going to be very dangerous. Only true secularism based on modern values is going to work. We share common history, common culture and heritage and we need to stand together in this tough time. Believe it or not we Indians love Pakistani. Just last week, I helped a Pakistani lady and she blessed me in Punjabi. I dont understand why we have been fighting for last 60 ears.

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  211. avatar comment-top

    I am an Indian. Whatever happened in Pakistan is shocking, very sad and is crime in every way. Unbeliveable!! I went through the comments from all and I agree with all of them as the content is almost same. But one thing I just don’t understand that how we Indians are giving advice to People and Government of Pakistan. We must look into ourselves first. What and how many times such incidents have happened in India, what did we do, what were the outcomes of all those investigations and reports and commissions. There is only one way out. Unity and determination to set up peace not only in India or Pakistan or one nation but in the whole world. Unless we don’t unite, there is no way out.

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  212. avatar
    Saad Khan (Pakistani AustraliaN) Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 10:30
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    This attack is extremely unfortunate and comes at a big loss for Pakistan.

    Despite the tight security, there was still a major security collapse and this is why there were soo many casualties.

    I can only hope that this attack does not bring an end to Pakistan cricket especially the 2011 world cup which every1 is looking forward to!!!

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  213. avatar comment-top

    I am an Indian living in China. I am sharing my life with Pakistanis and my country-mates alike in this alien country. I love your country as much as mine. I pray to God that our bickering politicians stop this blame game and work together towards peace and brotherhood.

    And being a cricket fan, I eagerly await the day when Sachin will face Shoaib in Lahore.

    God Bless!

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  214. avatar comment-top

    Terror attacks are nothing new to India or Pakistan. Many people have died and others have moved on. But with the Mumbai and Lahore attacks, it seems for the first time terrorists have hurt the pride. I hope the people in both the countries have not lost all of their self-respect during the two centuries of slavery. This is an attack on the dignity of the whole subcontinent.

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  215. avatar
    A Cricket Lover... Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 10:02
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    It is a sad for cricket and especially for Pakistan; this is the end of international cricket in the country for sometime.

    I have all the praise for Sri Lanka cricketers for coming over to play when none of the other cricket playing countries wants play in Pakistan because of security concern, and all praises for bus driver for his brave act to bring all the cricketers to safety point.

    I think we should feel and understand our Indian brother

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  216. avatar comment-top

    What happened is very sad, yet I am glad the Sri Lankan team survived Until and unless an investigation is completed, no one should be blamed. Evidence should be followed, no matter where it leads. It is not right to blame anyone based on streotyping or conspiracy theories. joe Blow’ comments are based on preconcieved notions and Pabakhar Rao’s comments showed an openess of mind and spirit. Thanks.

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  217. avatar
    Ashish Dixit Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 9:26
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    It is really a sad day for cricket a game known as game of gentlemen. everyother country in sub continent is being targeted by terrorists. but attacking srilankan team is just too much and thats too when they are only in pakistan to help pakistan cricket board.

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  218. avatar
    Chintan Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 9:20
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    I think this is a difficult time for Pakistan and Pakistan cricket. In these tough times all the countries of the subcontinent should come to gather and defeat terrorism. i hope this is not the end of International cricket in Pakistan as the people of Pakistan love cricket as much as we Indians do. But this incident has tarnished the image of Pakistan for no fault of the people of Pakistan.

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  219. avatar
    Amir Butt Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 9:03
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    our local Nazim have better security arrangement then Sri Lankan team.

    If the judges keep taking bribes and people in court rooms not the justice, these attack will increase and it is natural.

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  220. avatar comment-top

    In these troubling times, we had only one thing to feel happy about. Now that has been taken away from us as well.

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  221. avatar comment-top

    My heart goes for the people who died defending the Sri Lankan Players. It is unfortunate that Pakistan is going through hell. Hope the people of Pakistan will see peace and prosperity in the near future.

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  222. avatar comment-top

    Please send a hard copy (translated too) of this blog to politicians, religious leaders and bureaucrats of the sub-continent to show what people believe in and what they want. Unfortunately most of these people do not have individuality.

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  223. avatar
    Mr.Voltege Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 8:15
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    Govt. of Pakistan says they’ll give hard punishment to the terrorists involved in this attack

    well, Govt of Pakistan has not yet punished the killers of Benzir Bhutto

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  224. avatar
    Jayant Sinha Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 6:52
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    I have sympathies with the peace loving citizens of Pakistan, and I hope that they unite in the face of this tragedy and force their elected rulers to come out of their ivory towers and take concerted action against the enemies of democracy. Let’s face it – militancy is a threat to humanity. The Pakistan Government should go all out in thwarting establishments who nurture terrorists and are breeding ground of militants. It is indeed sad that some youth are being corrupted through evil indoctrination and self-righteous belief in fomenting terror, when they should be serving their motherland in a constructive manner. It is not just about cricket, it is about the survival of Pakistan and its rich heritage of art, music and literature. The citizens of Pakistan have to unite and take the call, not get waylaid by the politicians, enforce a good governance and ensure that not just Pakistan but the whole Indian subcontinent sets an example of peace and brotherhood, which is what Islam teaches.

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  225. avatar
    Osman Khalifah Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 6:38
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    Why does ANYONE defend the Taliban? Are these not the same people who you can find on liveleak.com and youtube beheading Pakistani soldiers? Did Mullah Radio and Baitullah not openly call for murder of the noble defenders of Pakistan? Stop buying into conspiracy theorist garbage! It’s time to wrest Pakistan from the Arab-Extremist supported Taliban and their supporters!

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  226. avatar comment-top

    [...] storied Gaddafi Stadium, may have been Pakistan’s cricket scene. The English-language The Dawn said the future of international sporting events in Pakistan are over. In The Nation, another [...]

     
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  227. avatar comment-top

    This was really something very unfortunate happened in Pakistan, I am an Indian but I am a big fan of Pakistani Cricket, and I feel deeply sad about it, its not going to be easy for Pakistani Cricket to bounce back and even tougher is to get the International teams in there. Hope everything will roll back soon and game will win against all these terrorists.

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  228. avatar
    Abbas Ali Dastani Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 5:27
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    This is a shameful incident for our country and damages our reputation.
    There are couple of issues here..that needs some introspection
    1. We should decide once and for all that we do not take terrorism of fundamentalism lightly.
    2. Show to the world that we are serious about security
    3. Convince/Beg other countries to come play cricket for the sake of the game and provide fool proof security
    4. Remove security to the undeserving politicians and their sidekicks
    5. Let’s renounce once and for all the Terrorists like Lashkar and Taliban who may have helped us create trouble for our enemies but they are no better than the devil himself.

    Wake up people and let’s tell the govt that enough is enough.

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  229. avatar
    Amar Zaid, Canada Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 5:11
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    We must not forget the fact the 6 officers gave their life, trying to protect the lives of Sri-Lankan Players. Security was provided, and that is the only reason that we had no casualties from Sri-Lankan team.
    6 brave officers fought till their last breath. Due to their herocis cricketers are safe today. We must remember these brave men. It is not the failure of security but a sucess that saved lives.

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  230. avatar comment-top

    Is there a religious angle ? to kill the Kuffar’s ?

    As heinous as this act is, the questions I have are below ..

    1. Why did they chose to attack Sri Lankan team, instead of Pakistan cricket team ?
    (I am against any violence and killing)

    If they attacked at the same place, Pakistan cricket team, it would have created the same or even more condemnation.

    Is it because Sri lanka team does not have any Muslims ?
    Is it because Sri Lanka team is primarily Hindu/Buddhist ?

    2. Why not chose some other target in Lahore, why only cricket target ?
    Are they against any form of sport or entertainment ?
    Does this mean there any issues

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  231. avatar comment-top

    Deepest sympathies to those who were killed and hurt in this cowardly attack. However, this is not the time to give up. This is the time to emerge stronger from this. It is the obligation of all cricket lovers to stand by the cricket loving Pakistani people and not let Pakistan cricket down at its darkest hour. I have started a petition to our cricket boards and the ICC to play a solidarity series/ match comprising SL, Pak, Ind & Bang in the subcontinent in the next 3 months to show the terrorists and the world that cricket will prevail. If you agree, sign at this link and let your friends know too – Sri Lankan cricket lover http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/solidaritycricketcup/

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  232. avatar
    Hasan Aamir Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 4:35
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    is fortunate that i went and saw some of the match in karachi…prob the last test to be ever played at the national stadium. i feel so sad

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  233. avatar
    campbell Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 4:19
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    I’m an Australian cricket-lover who recently spent some time in Pakistan. I came away with a real affection for the country, its people and its rich culture- and I’m deeply saddened by what has occurred in Lahore.

    During my visit, as a Westerner, I often felt an undercurrent of hostility when I would meet local people. But this always melted away when the conversation moved, as it inevitably did, to cricket. I remembered Imran Khan and the ‘92 World Cup…Javed Miandad and Dennis Lillee, at each other’s throats…when I was a kid, I wanted to bowl like Waqar. In Karachi, I joined in a local schoolboy team’s net session- we bonded over cricket.

    This cowardly attack on the Sri Lankan team seems to me to be an attack on the Pakistani people- who love cricket even more than Australians do. I know how much despair many in Pakistan will be feeling over this attack today.

    I am not so presumptuous as to pretend to know the solutions to Pakistan’s many and varied problems. But I wanted to show my solidarity, in this small way, with all peace-loving Pakistanis- and to urge them not to give up hope for a better future for their country: one in which the violence and intolerance of a few does not dominate the lives of the many. ‘Evil triumphs when good people do nothing’. A nation is not its government: I hope the good people of Pakistan will take control of their beautiful country again: and that someday I’ll be able to talk cricket with happy Pakistanis in the stands at Karachi.

    Pakistan Zindebad.

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  234. avatar comment-top

    Folks,

    Before we complain about this incident, we should be thankful to those police officers who gave the biggest sacrifice (lives) a man could give for the country. I am so much very thankful to god to have those officers at the time of attack. It was them who resisted those terrorist away from the cricket Team. Was it a security lapse or any political move, is a big question. Let us not do what we have accustomed of doing

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  235. avatar
    Dr S.Rahman, Australia Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 4:07
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    People are saying that we shouldn’t lose hope and keep on struggling for better days, but the thing is from where we can gather such a courage now, its slipping from our hands, its so painful to see your beloved country in the hands of people who have no interest in nation, all they want is power. I have always considered my self as a optimistic person, I generally don’t loss hope but these incidents have shaken a person like me. I am not in Pakistan, not going through these horrible situations/incidents on daily basis, I feel sorry for my fellow country men and my whole family who are there and dealing with this daily. We are indeed moving towards a very horrible and unwanted situation, as Imran Khan says, towards a bloody revolution ( GOD FORBID) May Allah protect pakistan, AMEEN. Now i have to face millions of question regarding Pakistan-Islam-jihad-extremism tomorrow at work AGAIN!

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  236. avatar
    Ashish Trivedi Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 3:43
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    First of all hats off to those policemen who shed there life in protecting the Sri Lankan players.
    But now its high time to think about worsening situation not only in Pakistan but in entire Indian subcontinent, recently I read about Bangladesh Mutiny; Mumbai attacks in India still have scars and now this.
    The whole subcontinent is being seriously harmed by such attacks.

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  237. avatar
    Yasin Chinoy Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 3:36
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    Is anyone who has the authority ever going to take any stance against this kind of horrendous acts in Pakistan? Today it is sportsmen, tomorrow it will be all civilians. People who are ruling Pakistan are responsible for taking care of its people and visitors. This is not a political problem, all factions should come together and destroy these elements which are taking us back in stone ages. It is time to wake up.

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  238. avatar comment-top

    It is sad that sportspersons are targeted for no fault of theirs. My prayers are with those security personnel who lost their lives. They sacrificed their lives to protect the Sri Lankan cricketers. My salutations to you folks.

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  239. avatar comment-top

    I do feel really ashamed that our government could not stop such ghastly attack. I equally dislike the comments made by Indian government,who ant to excel in this situation by getting favour and try to isolate Pakistan and get chance to label her as terrorist state.
    India should refrained for making insensitive remarks and try to work with neighbour country to stamp out this evil disease from its root, and make the region safer .

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  240. avatar
    P Dalvi, India Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 2:21
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    My heart goes out to all the law enforcement men who were killed by the terrorists. I’m glad that the Lankan team is OK.

    We need to stand together to eliminate this threat of terrorism.

    I hope the culprits are caught quickly and punished, without the usual blame game.

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  241. avatar
    Tasneem Khan Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 2:20
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    I hope this is not the last nail in coffin of Pakistani Cricket. We salute the undaunting spirit of Lankan cricketers, and our sympathy with the grieving families of Pakistani Police who lost their dear ones protecting lives of their guests. All forms of extremism are forbidden in Islam. Talibans and all their affliates spreading terror in the name of religion are humiliating Islam – Unless Pakistan takes some firm unyielding steps to counter their advances, the country sooner or later will be in ruins…the clock is fast ticking. May Allah help Pakistan

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  242. avatar
    keralite Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 2:19
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    Bad day for Pakistani Cricket.

    My sympathies are with the families of the heroic security personnel who laid down their lives protecting the Sri Lankan cricketers.

    But, I have a doubt. How come so many security personnel died and not even one terrorist was killed or even hurt?

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  243. avatar comment-top

    My deepest condolences to the brave men who sacrificed their lives protecting the Sri Lankan cricketers.

    I’m an Indian, but have great respect for the potential goodness of Pakistan. It is time for the good in Pakistan to prevail over the fringe elements/fundamentalists. Western powers are now trying to brand this nation as a land of fundamentalists, which is sad.

    In my humble opinion, Pakistan should now churn out generational leaders who transcend short-term political gains and set a lofty vision that inspires all citizens to greater ideals. That will be the best healing touch to this great country that’s being bruised time and again by fringe fundamentalist elements.

    Go Pakistan ! The world wants you to succeed !!!

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  244. avatar
    Farhan Khan Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 2:15
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    Pakistani authorities failed to provide security to the most important international sporting event that occured after months of repitive refusals from almost all the international cricket playing countries.

    Prior to this incident people used to say it is the international sporting authorities having an unbiased fear of travelling to Pakistan. This incident proves contrary to that.

    An incident like this in the posh area of Liberty, Lahore was well planned and executed by the terrorists and creates a deep sense of vulnerability to anyone living local or travelling from abroad.

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  245. avatar
    Syed Hasan Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 2:13
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    I as a Pakistani feel that we do not deserve to host any such event in Pakistan anymore.

    Lahore is our second biggest city after Karachi. We can not secure our metros forget about the Northern part.

    My salute to Sri Lanka team and officials for their tour. Sri Lankans are the real heroes of CRICKET.

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  246. avatar comment-top

    Firstly, my sympathies and heartfelt condolences to the martyred servicemen

    Friends

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  247. avatar
    Abdul Mannan Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 1:57
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    What has Pakistan come to?
    My fellow countrymen..spare a thought for a minute. Even though Qaid E Azam rebelled against INC leaders in the later part of his life and demanded a separate state, he always nurtured and believed in secular ideals. This is not the Pakistan he envisioned. Somewhere down the line, the message was lost in translation…wake up my friends, the path we have been going on is not the right one. Lets stop India bashing and try to learn from our big brother country. India is shining in the world stage and its clear why. They dont try to Islamize or Hinduize their country. Our media and our politicians earn their bread by making India villain for all Pakistani problems. Truth is different my friends.. the whole world reads another book while Pakistan tried to read another. Muslims in India are far better off than minorities in Pakistan. A recent example is AR Rahman a convert muslim , just won the most prestigious Oscar award. When there is talent, it doesnt matter what religion you practice. Just lets stop this religious over dependence and start living life like how Allah intended… peace loving. If this incident also does not change people’s mindset and politicians will, then only Allah can save Pakistan from further turmoil and shame.

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    You know the statement by the former US president that these people are against our freedoms and against civilization seems unfortunately very true after this incident.What do these people want?
    Why cant we the moderates take our country back from these freaks.I am so sorry for the attack on the innocent Srilankan team and offer my sincerest apologies to them.my sincerest condolences to the fallen policemen’s families.

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  249. avatar
    Mustafa Asif Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 1:35
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    This is a sad day for the entire human race.

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  250. avatar
    Arshad Zaidi Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 1:34
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    That

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    I am a secular, non-religious individual so please don’t accuse me for being soft on terror or Taliban sympathiser for my following comment.

    The only lesson that we need to learn from this most embarrassing incident is that when you have occupation and turmoil in your neighbourhood there is no way you can avoid being affected.

    Unfortunately blaming Taliban, Pakistan or India will not help as American occupation of Afghanistan is the key issue. Yes we do have problems of religious right in Pakistan but then countries including India & USA also have strong and violent religious right. Why can’t we all just focus on our own respective religious rights to rid society of these problems and stop being policeman of whole world?

    For as long as Afghanistan is under foreign occupation Pakistan can forget foreign investment or hosting cricket game on its land.

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  252. avatar
    Tariq Khan Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 1:30
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    All Pakistanis are Sri Lankans today; come back & play. Just one 1 day game; Rs.5000 per ticket for that game and give the proceeds to the victims.

    Don’t let the terrorists win!

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  253. avatar comment-top

    Extremely sad day for Pakistan.
    Its a shame 12 people successfully escaped carrying out such an attack on such a large scale in Lahore.
    The govt needs to take strict action, or just wait for more such incidents ruin the country completely.

    May Allah bless Pakistan.

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  254. avatar
    Faisal Husain Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 1:24
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    I am just crying. What we have done to our beloved country. Allah either take my life or destroy all those who are behind such henious crimes or give us, the Government and the people of Pakistan courage and determination to fight against these terrorist till we are victorious.
    And also give some good sense to ALL the brands of politicians. GOD PLEASE HELP THIS COUNTRY.

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  255. avatar comment-top

    My heartfelt sympathy for the next of kins of Policemen killed defending Sri Lankan team and hats off to the brave driver. I am an Indian in Canada strongly condemn this act of coward terrorists.

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  256. avatar comment-top

    Hitting sports persons – ambassadors of the country – is a cowardly act.

    Hope a proper investigation is done.

    Hope proper action is taken post the investigation.

    Hope is a good thing.

    ================

    I am sure my Pakistani brethren are equally sad as i am about this incident; I hope civil society in Pakistan manages to put adequate pressure on the authorities for an honest probe and action.

    Democracy strengthens when there is accountability and transparency.

    Responsibility of citizens doesn’t end at the polling booth; strong democracies survive on strong civil society.

    Best of luck ! I am sure u want to know the truth as we in India are. I hope we have a strong and stable Pakistan … because its good for every stakeholder in the subcontinent

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  257. avatar comment-top

    I’m failing to understand how these terrorist extremists find their recruits? Who is sympathetic to their cause and who donates them funding and provides them protection?

    I’m failing to understand why there isn’t a strong counter-uprising among the people against these extremist killers. Government is chosen from us and their will can only be as strong as ours. It’s time for people to not only stand but revolt against these terrorists. These killers lurk among us like a cancer and it is only us that can root it out.

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  258. avatar comment-top

    It is a sad day indeed for Pakistani Cricket. Until we as a country are willing to look at the issue at hand directly in the eye..we will never as a country prosper. We are already hyphenated with Afghanistan. Is that what we want?
    This is a chance for all of us moderate Pakistanis to raise up and condemn the Terrorists who in the name of the religion bring a bad name to our country. They are distroying our country, values and what else.. Unless we can start to root out evil satan like Taliban or Lashkar or others..we will be in a sad pathetic state.

    May god help pakistan.

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  259. avatar comment-top

    As I read through the comments, I have to say the majority of them don’t recognize the only rational conclusion. In equivalent terms, Europe experienced the dark ages that stretched from the fall of the Roman empire in the 5th century AD to the Renaissance in the 14th century. A period of some 1000 years. Pakistan has begun its journey through its own dark age. Cricket, like most everything else will have to wait a millennium to re-awaken in Pakistan.

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  260. avatar comment-top

    This is no way connected to religion.This is pure terrorism and these people are not muslims and they have not done this in the name of Islam. How can they just escape from a bustling city and just vanish.
    My thoughts go to the family of those policemen who died and to the Sri Lankan cricket team.

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  261. avatar comment-top

    I am an Indian. I think it is about time for the Pakistani civilian society to start raising its voice. To date, and I say this from personal experience, Pakistanis have religiously supported their politicians, their army, their people – out of sheer patriotism. That is all very good. But patriotism without scrutiny, without questions can be fatal. As is happening in Pakistan for the last two years. It is time for the average Pakistani joe to start showing his anger on the streets against its govt. – like the Mumbai citizens expressed their anger by coming in hundreds of thousands on the streets of Mumbai. Start asserting yourself. Let the politicians, the army start feeling the heat of the people. Pakistani civilians are never heard in public. Let their voices and anger be heard loud and clear for the terrorists and govt. to hear.

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  262. avatar comment-top

    It is shame that we are condemning ourselves without knowing the facts, the terror is not the production of people of Lahore it is funded by outsiders not people of Pakistan.. why we cannot for a day speak the same language, shame on these people who say bye bye cricket in Pak.. did USA for say goodbye bye to mega sports after 9/11. Its time media gets a grip… or media will be the public enemy number one.. Some already are…

    its time Pakistanis wake up and speak!

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  263. avatar comment-top

    This is the greatest day for Pakistani’s. God is great.

    Just imagine what would have happened if the bullet injuries to the two Srilankan players – if they just slightly hit above or below and manage to kill any of them.

    Forget Cricket, it would be curtains to Pakistan in many other fields.

    The world would not have been the same for Pakistan.

    Its okay if a Cricket doesnt get played in our soil, but the game will go on.

    Now is the last and final chance for all the good forces left in Pakistan to come together and kill all the different Frankenstein monsters looming free within our soil.

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  264. avatar
    Bushra Khan Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 0:36
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    We bid farewell to hockey and squash,now goodbye international cricket in Pakistan.What could have been more mortifying especially at the time when Pakistan was already crumbling.

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  265. avatar
    Mustafa Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 0:33
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    I am surprised that the very basic strategic precautions were not taken, normally in such cases police is deployed in advance on key junctions along with snipers in more exposed areas (consider the security precautions taken in Karachi when the test match was conducted there.) Police vans traveling alongside as part of a convoy are practically sitting ducks (which was evident today). This was possible only if the planners had no understanding of strategy. Think how difficult this entire endeavour would have been to execute if sniper positions were taken by the police in near by buildings.

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  266. avatar
    Proud indian Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 0:29
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    inshahallah pakistan will prevail. I have many pakistani friends and pakistan is resilient. Thank allah players were safe.

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  267. avatar
    Raheel Ahmed Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 0:24
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    Very well said Avinash (posted from Delhi;
    March 3rd, 2009 at 22:23). I am sure, like you said, if our people unite, we can force a change for the good and prosperity in the subcontinent.

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  268. avatar comment-top

    After seeing a lot of uncertainty in Pakistan, I have personally reached a point where I’m sick and tired of what’s happening.

    This should be a wake up call for most Pakistani’s, our lifestyle in Pakistan is not one that consists of extremist values but one which consists of moderate values. A balance of moderation and religion. So why is our life so controlled by such a a minority.

    Serious actions should be taken to avoid a situation like this in the future, and the people of Pakistan should start speaking out against people who have done such a terrible thing to cause damage to the pride of our country.

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  269. avatar
    Jameel H Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 0:22
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    Being an ardent cricket fan, a part of me has died today.
    So it seems that leaders of our beloved country cannot keep it safe. As a bystander to the politics of our country, the question that comes to mind is:
    Do we have any leaders that are capable of leading this country in the manner it deserves and needs to be led?
    Who will detemine what the next 10, 20 or 30 years hold for Pakistan?
    Where are we going as a nation? anywhere good??
    Will the moderates have their voice of reason against the tyranny of fundamentalism? when?? How??
    May Allah bless us with strength and wisdom.

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  270. avatar comment-top

    I have a question for Mr Imran Khan and Qazi husein Ahmad
    Do you still think that Operation in the tribal areas and swat should be abandoned?
    Should we still beg the killers of innocent people to come and negotiate with us so that we strike a peace deal with the murderers?
    People of Pakitan! for God sake, stop bringing religion into everything.

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  271. avatar comment-top

    To expect the PCB/security forces to function with pristine competence while the country is dysfunctional in every way possible is truly myopic. Wake up, folks. Who is PCB and of what worth the security forces in a country where terrorists are rampant and have the might to make the government concede it’s country’s sovereignty to them? It’s like blaming the doctors and the nurses for failure to save lives while the highest authorities give the country over to plague. If anything is to be asked, anyone to be blamed, then pick on all those governments – dictatorial and democratic – that let terrorism fester. Pick on yourself – the people and the media – who have impotently and meekly stood by despite repeated and violent violation of your trust by your custodians. Don’t expect the Pakistan Cricket Board to succeed where Pakistan Government Board failed. Don’t expect local security forces to succeed where the national army has failed.

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  272. avatar comment-top

    Disgusting to hear what happened. Hate appears to have no bounds. It is time Pakistan puts down terrorist camps around its country and stop calling them freedom fighters. You reap what you sow otherwise. Let the Pakistan people live in peace. ISI, military establishment, terrorist camps, non-stop war with India, blame-game etc will yield no solution. Pakistan people should raise up to this occasion. Heart goes out to those security gaurds and Sri Lankan team. Another sad day.

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  273. avatar
    Amit Krishna Says:
    March 4th, 2009 at 0:11
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    Most of the comments if you read here, people at both the sides have the same opinion that India and Pakistan should work together. Why can

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  274. avatar
    Amit Krishna Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 23:53
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    It could be a great lesson learnt from these attacks if Pakistan and India start working together with full co-operation and togetherness, forgetting their previous issues. From the Pakistani side this decision should be supported unanimously from political parties, army and ISI. India as a big neighbouring country owns more responsibility of stable Pakistan and end terrorism in the region. India should also show their confidence in Pakistan government and support it with all the needs. This is the demand of current situation, India and Pakistan must work together or keep crawling with the cancer of terrorism.
    Going a step further it would be greater impact if Indian and Pakistani army and police work together, be it Mumbai or Lahore there are innocent people only killed by the bullets of same terrorist.

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  275. avatar comment-top

    I was born in India but I am not Indian. I love my Pakistani brothers and sisters but I am not Pakistani.

    These labels divide us. An imaginary line divides us.

    We are all part of the same human race.One not more or less pure than another.But in our minds we have created separation and put ourselves higher than our brothers and sisters across an imaginary line.
    We are not more nor any less than those who committed this incident to frigten and seperate us further. WE are the ones responsible. WE do it everyday.

    Let us now erase the imaginary line and live in the love of Allah, Krishna, Jesus, Ahura Mazda…who are all one and the same.

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  276. avatar
    Avinash from Mumbai Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 23:43
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    For visitors, this is not a time to shun holding matches in Pakistan or visiting Pakistan altogether. That is exactly what the attackers want. Rather it should be the opposite. Don’t let the language of hate & fear triumph over the language of love.

    My heart goes out to an average peace loving Pakistani citizen – please do not feel embarrassed. As your Indian brother, I am sad with you. It is a sad day for all of us.

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  277. avatar comment-top

    As a citizen of the sub continent and India, I am sorry to see this latest brazen incident. Fanatics whether in Sri Lanka, Bangla Desh, Pakistan or India have one sole motive. To reduce the sub continent to 4th world status.

    It is now up to us the people to band together, rise above the pettiness of the past and find solutions to salvage the situation.

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  278. avatar
    dr siddiqui Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 23:30
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    This is totally outrageous. What happened in Lahore shows the incompetency of the present government and because of all this anarchy you can say good bye to the Pakistan cricket which already had an ailing health. Everybody knew that this was coming at some point or other and yet it could not be prevented. Already tarnished image of my beloved country has now been completely put to dogs. Its a real shame.

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  279. avatar comment-top

    I do not think that the Pakistani government has the will or ability to thwart such attacks. To solve the problem, one has to identy the problem. At this point the Pakistan establishment, for most part, is not even willing to accept that there is a problem. They are willing to blame all and sundry for the problems facing the country. US, Isreal and India, to name a few. To accept that the problem does exist and it is internal, would be a first positive step. If the govt. were to show honesty in dealing with this terrorist menace, they would find a lot of support coming from unlikely place, India included (Surprise! Surprise!). We see constant flip flop from pakistan govt. on the Mumbai attack on a daily basis. Even after Dawn exposed the links, the govt tried to make the family of Kasab disappear. Does tell a whole lot about the seriousness to root out the terror. I do not think terrorist really can be controlled by anyone (including ISI). As India and other countries enhance their security apparatus, they would attack more on the soft targets in Pakistan itself. Let us hope that enough people that put pressure on the government to move in the right direction to tackle this menace. May God be with the family of the policement who bravely founght against the terrorist. I hope one person in the leadership in the govt. has that kind of courage to fight for the right!

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  280. avatar comment-top

    This is a sad day in cricket history and is definitely end of cricket in Pakistan.

    Nand
    Reading, UK

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  281. avatar
    Mohammad Ali Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 23:27
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    I am not sure how long we will wait before we go after the source of this evil and root it out for good. We have been humiliated now.
    These people need exemplary punishment so no one ever try to commit this kind of crime.

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  282. avatar
    Shakil A. Khan Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 23:23
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    The solution to terrorism in Pakistan lies in developing national bondage, civic sense and exclusion of mullahs from religious and cultural life of Pakistan. Are the thinking decent people of Pakistan ready for it and in performance of their civic duties. The way I see Pakistan is a talking and not doing anything nation.

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  283. avatar
    JayinAtlanta Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 23:08
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    God, the more I watch new videos , I shake my head.

    As seen on Pak Tv:The rocket launcher used in the attack is shown on TV with a policeman holding it in his hands- with no gloves on .

    There are fingerprints on it and as such that’s not how a cop should handle evidence.

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    I almost fell out of my chair when I read the post about this being, possibly, an LTTE attack. Come on people, wake up. Pakistan is imploding and you guys are still slumbering.

    This attack made me physically sick. It the end of not just international sports, but also any credibility, and any hope of receiving investments from abroad.

    I am praying for Pakistan, but feel nothing but pessimism.

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  285. avatar
    Shakeel, Kuwait Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 22:49
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    First of all I apologise to the Sri Lankan team to whole nation for they toured Pakistan despite huge pressure.

    It is one of the most tragic incident happened to pakistani people and its cricket. Irony is that it happened in the heart of pakistan, lahore. Which is the most liberal and vibrant city of pakistan.

    Enough is enough, Lets a stand up against these barbarians!

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  286. avatar comment-top

    This a very tragic event happened in our beloved country, May all the souls rest in peace Ameen !!! Long Live Pakistan !!!

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  287. avatar
    Himanshu Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 22:45
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    This horrific incident today in Lahore is a blow to peace and sports loving people of Pakistan. Since i m from Mumbai and having witnessed the 26/11 terrorist attack here last year, my heart goes out to Pakistani people and specially the residents of Lahore. We should stand united against the terrorism and at the same time Govt of Pakistan now seriously act against the those who are constantly trying to destabilize the whole region.

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  288. avatar comment-top

    To my Pakistani and Sri Lankan Neighbors
    First of all I would like to offer sympathies to all parties who got hurt and lost their loved ones in this terrorist act. My parents were from Pakistan. My mom is from Lahore and my dad was from Mirpur area. I used to hear lot of great stories from them of their birth place. I have visited Pakistan when I was 15-16 years old. I fell in love with Islamabad as to how clean that place is surrounded by Mountain I believe called Damanico. Anyways we all are facing these menaces. Who do we go after. All the big shots are secured in their bullet proof homes and cars. We elect them to be our saviors but instead they play with our lives. and it is every where be it plakistan or india or any other country. These so called leaders are having hefty bank accounts while an ordinary person does not even get half time of meal. Till today I want to know what do these so called terrorist want and where do they come from. Who creates them. I am pretty sure when a child is born he/she does not come with the intention to be a terrorist or millitant. Lack of education is the main culprit. We need to educate our kids from right and wrong instead of teaching them hatred against the other person religion race and etc. All religion teach same things so why challenging that. We all need to unite and fight against the illiteracy. May God bless us all with the wisdom. I am sure Pakistan will never lose cricket. it is just a matter of time when they will be back on top after India though cuz i still want to see my India on top charts of ICC rankings.

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  289. avatar
    Mustafa Khan, Canada Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 22:44
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    With deep sympathy and heavy heart, I am writing this note from Toronto, and want to share my feelings with the Readers from all over the world. I live in an immigrant society with family and relatives, where people from India, Pakistan , Sri Lanka, China, East Europe, Polish, Russians and 60 other countries Live, Eat, Work and Celebrate togeter. They are all our working and living brothers. What they will feel about us, the Pakistani’s.

    Few weeks back, the terrorists slaughtered a Polish geologist, kidnapped since Sep’08. Now they attacked Sri Lankan Test Cricketers, who were very respectful bunch of brave sportsmen. Last November, the world saw these terrorists exhibition of Hi-drama in Mumbai. Are these young terrorists not Muslims, part of our ill society’s members. If they are, who are their coach and their leaders. Why do they Hate everyone. What are they getting from it, A Very Good name, they think….

    Do they want that the Muslims Living in any part of the world should be treated in same manner, these fanatics are treating the non-Muslim guests. I would request my readers to condemn the extremist Mullahs and so-called Leaders and Killers who have hijacked the country, and are giving such an Ugly reputation to pakistan. As Barrack Obmama said in his last speech, “History will Never forget those leaders, who are not rising to the demand of their Nation”. We need a very major changes in our incompetent Leadership. Where should we seek help. ARMY ?… May God Bless Pakistan and bring in the young leaders with Right Mind sets.

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    This is a miserable day to be a Pakistani. Will this will be another day in the life of a Pakisani, or is this a turning point? Will people finally come out on the streets and demonstrate and demand a better tomorrow where all are free to practice religion however they choose without imposing it on others? Will people finally show force to combat forces currently gripping our throats. That my fellow countrymen is the key question.

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  291. avatar
    Avinash, Delhi Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 22:23
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    Ridiculous!! How can few people with violent notions effect peace and happiness of so many people? Who gave them the right to do so?

    I feel now its no more about India/Pakistan/ Srilanka/ Bangladesh individually. The whole subcontinent is under threat and is considered a dangerous place by others.

    Politicians are not going to do anything, its the people who have to rise. Stop getting fooled by politicians when they play with our emotions. I know people in pakistan have now realised the hollowness behind hate India campaign and similarly here in India as well, now kashmir or pakistan dont fetch them votes.

    We need to unite and eradicate terrorism from the subcontinent and show the world that subcontinent is a very beautiful place and peaceful place full of culture and liveliness.

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    It is a terrorist attack. I am saddened by the fact that the motorcade was not provided with fool proof security. It is the responsibility of the police for the enforcement of law and order and Lahore police didn’t do what they are supposed to do.

    As a Pakistani I am ashamed that this happened in a major city of Pakistan. Some held should roll. Who is responsible for law and order in Lahore, please wake up from slumber and do your job.

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    It is extremely embarrasing situation for a common Pakistani. I salute Sri Lankan people and their cricket team for visiting Pakistan. I apologize for incident to Sri Lankan people and cricket team.

    Our leadership is broken to such an extent that there is no hope, atleast with these so called leaders.

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    Have we ever seen ever a head or a minister owning a failure in Pakistan. In the land of pure the buck stops nowhere. How about accepting the failure this time. The Chairman of PCB and the Minister of Sports and Minister of Interior should resign and show the International communnity that this time things are a little different in the name of “Democracy”. Learn a lesson from India if you can.

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  295. avatar
    Rahul S Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 22:20
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    The situation is indeed difficult at the moment. I say this not only for Pakistan, but for the whole Indian subcontinent.

    Events like cricket and tourism are a big source of revenue for both India and Pakistan. A time when the world is already hit by recession, incidents like this can be totally fatal for both of the countries.

    I hope Pakistani government now take firm action against the terrorist elements inside the country. Is is in the benefit of economically poor Pakistan and of course other countries of the subcontinent like India. Pointing fingers at India is not likely to help.

    Pakistan needs to ACT.. and act fast.

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  296. avatar
    Saifur Rahman Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 22:12
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    This is time for all Pakistani to show something more than airing voices. Come out on the streets, wear black badges and demonstrate peacefully against these criminals who wish to kill international sports in Pakistan.

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  297. avatar
    Nazir Alimohammad Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 21:44
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    Wow! Another shocker for Pakistan. While the rich folks in Pakistan will be eating chicken tikkas and the youth sipping their chais in roadside cafe and doing nothing but complaining, the country is slipping in an abyss of lawlessness.
    I say give the country to the extremist, let them run the country, see them destroy it and gloat over it. Rich will still be eating chicken tikkas, youth will still be sipping chais. Just talk. Pakistanis are just like Nero while Rome burns.
    Come on Pakistanis, it is time to beat the crap out of these terrorists once and for all before the cancer spreads.

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  298. avatar
    Babar Hassan Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 21:44
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    This cowardly act by anti-pakistan elements is highly condemnable.
    I salute brave policemen for fighting against terrorists till their last breath, but above all Sri-lankan cricket team bus driver effort was remarkable whose effort is neglected in the whole story.

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  299. avatar
    Ali M Choudhary Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 21:41
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    A major blow to Pakistan Cricket, yes, but also a major blow to Pakistans image. At a time when the country is facing an array of problems; be it political, domestic, ethnic, economic, the incident in Lahore serves as icing on the cake!

    Being a Pakistani living overseas, I find it utterly dissapointing to see my country going down the path to destruction and hopelessness.

    It brings one to shame. The Srilankan players had agreed to come to Pakistan when all others blatantly refused. They decided to side with Pakistan at a time when we faced isolation in the cricket world. I dont think this isolation can be avoided now.

    True, like the Marriott bombing and numerous other terrorist acts, this too, will be eventually forgotten and life will move on for 170 mln unhappy Pakistanis, but mind you, incidents as abhorring as this one, can cost Pakistan Cricket years & years of recovery!

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  300. avatar
    masood quraishi Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 21:39
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    Sad day or Cricket and a very sad day for people of Pakistan and British fans of Pakistani Origin…..Its a shame that they or Pakistani security could not save the Brave Team of Sri Lanka…..Sri Lanka we are with you in mourning. An apology from a Pakistani of such shameful act of terror and sorry we could not protect you.
    Masood

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    Poor Pakistan , what is going to happen to you ? Is it going to be a Swat valley situation for the whole of Pakistan.It’s now or never to react – Courage !!
    a well wisher

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    Murtuza Babrawala Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 21:33
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    It is time for Pakistani leaders, politicians, military and above all the people of Pakistan to wake up and boot the terrorist out and finish them off. Otherwise the terrorist will finish Pakistan with their extreme agenda. Pakistan is an Islamic state and let it be just that. Islam teaches us tolerance and humanity and these terrorist who attack innocent people are not Muslims but savages.

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    It is a really saddening, a painful and a dreadful situation going on in Pakistan and i on behalf of my entire nation is sorry to all those who have been injured and those who have lost their lives in this barbaric incident. May Allah guide us all. (ameen)

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  304. avatar
    Krishnan Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 21:30
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    Hope this is the straw that breaks the camel’s back and the Pakistani people rise up against these fundamentalists who are out to destroy their nation. My condolences to the families of the security personnel killed in this cowardly act and hope that peace wins out in the end. At this time i think the world or atleast the cricket playing portion of the world can support the Pakistani people by holding a 1 day match between the World XI and Pakistan XI in Lahore. You cannot let these cowards dictate how you live your life. May the silver lining of this and the Mumbai attacks be that Pakistanis and my fellow Indians come together and rise up against fundamentalists of all stripes.

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    When politics overshadows basic human decency; when terror is supported in name of ’strategic asset’; when religion is used to incite hatred; when a country gives in to terror and allows establishment of different judiciary in part of country — the fall out is severe and serious. This attack once again goes to show that “as you sow, so you reap”. Pakistan politicians need to renounce supporting terror to avoid creating many more situations like this.

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  306. avatar
    Amit from India Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 21:26
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    We know and feel your pain. May God have mercy on our nations and unite us to fight against the common enemy who seek to sow seeds of violence and hate.

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  307. avatar
    Danish Ahmed Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 21:24
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    I was really shocked when a friend of mine broke this news to me. I feel so much pain, more so because i can do nothing to take this nation of pure out of this miserable condition it is in. Situation in Pakistan has gone bad to worse over the years, and I think now the time has come for revolution. Now or never. I also want to apologize to our good srilankan friends who had to face such a misery. Danish (Loughborough, UK)

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  308. avatar
    Rahul C Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 21:14
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    One can understand it’s hard to proved fool proof security to such a large visible target, but how did all the attackers manage to escape? This is in Lahore, not some border province. Pakistan needs to enact a robust policy of zero tolerance for terrorists, collaborators, sympathizers and misguided apologists or else it will implode. Time is running out.

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  309. avatar
    Amir Umar Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 21:14
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    I am so deeply touched by sympathies of my Indian brothers and sisters. General masses in India know exactly know what people of Pakistan are feeling. But I am disgusted by Indian politicians trying to score cheap point at time like this. No one know better than Pakistan people what cancer they are dealing with so Indian politician trying to rub salt on Pakistani masses is really disgusting. This incident had no other motive to isolate Pakistan from rest of the world. Forget about being Muslims these attackers are not even worthy of being called dog. For Indian politicians to side with these dogs in maligning Pakistani people is completely appalling. And to our media I hope you stop criticizing our security forces. These police officer that died today are true Pakistani. Unfortunately I can not say the same about our opportunistic media and lawyer community.

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  310. avatar comment-top

    After the death of squash, hockey and the never truly alive soccer, cricket was the only recreation left for 160+ million Pakistanis and more importantly for 80+ million poor people. Now where do they go for recreation? What do they do for entertainment?

    Sports is part of many countries’ economy. It could have and should have been part of Pakistan’s economy but that is gone now.

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    Maybe just maybe the people of Pakistan will wake up and say no more.

    I for one do not enjoy reading daily occurrences of death by suicide attacks etc etc.

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  312. avatar
    suleman maniya Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 21:06
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    What a pity! Woefully inadequate security! When there is a small VIP movement all roads are sealed etc. I didnt understand how can those people fire and run away like this!Just goes to show the level of inefficiency which is plaguing our country with so many political appointments etc. We should go after these militants no need to talk and have negotiations . Let us all rise and attack where they are hiding and finish this cancer once and for all. When shall we use our Nukes and Missiles. I think all of them should be exterminated!

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    nilanjan Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 21:02
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    Like many others I am also shocked. My condolence to all the family members of the brave hearts died on duty while saving the life of the lankan cricketers. I won’t say it was security lapse. In crowded countries like India and Pakistan it’s impossible to provide full proof security. Somehow I failed to understand the motive of the killers. May God bless us all and help us to eradicate violence.

    deeply hurt……nilanjan…..from India

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  314. avatar
    Ghazi Irfan Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 21:01
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    This is a sad day for Pakistan but was it not already coming. We have been using these tactics against our enemies for years and now someone (our enemies or people we trained) have used this on us.

    We need to prove to the world that we are strong and the only way we can prove that is by getting the Sri Lanka team to come back and play in Islamabad. This is what the Indians did with the England team

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    Ali Hassan Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 21:01
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    I am sick to my stomach; the only consolation is that no one in the Sri Lankan team died. Pakistani citizens need to take a good look at them selves and decide whose side are they on and then do something about it

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  316. avatar
    ali abbas Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 21:00
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    Lets think beyond cricket. Its not only taliban and extremists who are hell bent on destroying Pakistan. look at our media, they take credit for freedom of press in Pakistan. Language that is being used in Pakistani media and tilted coverage they are providing is the number one cause of deterioration on Pakistani values. What Nawaz Sharif and lawyer community are doing in guise of restoration of judiciary is a complete joke. We know how sincere these people are about Pakistan. unless these people start speaking with one voice and for once set aside their own personal interests we might be able to rescue Pakistan. Otherwise its not the future of cricket that is bleak in Pakistan. PPP might not be perfect but everyone in the world except Pakistani media gives them credit for making some serious efforts, PPP and other governing parties can not do anything on their own and that is what forces them to take steps to consolidate their power. If Nawaz Sharif and other politician learn to take turns and wait and focus on helping govt in dealing with cancer of extremism they wont have any country left to rule

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  317. avatar
    Khan, Jeddah Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 20:59
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    What a tragic day in the History of Pakistan. I don’t see any team coming to Pakistan for the next 2-3 years, at least, unless the security and political situation improves drastically. I prefer so too; if we can

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  318. avatar
    Faisal Rana Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 20:57
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    Where was the Head of State level security that was supposed to be appointed to protect the cricket teams?

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  319. avatar
    Abhijeet, India Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 20:44
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    The attack on Sri Lankan cricket team has depressed all the supporters of peace and humanity. No terrorist attack can be justified.This people cannot be termed as freedom fighters on any place on earth.we people of INDIA are friends of PAKISTAN and we should work together against the terrorist as we suffer from same problem. It is high time that we as citizens of planet EARTH act against this extremist people and eliminate them at the earliest before they eliminate beautiful Pakistan.

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    It is disgusting to see how the whole region is subjected to constant terror. What happened today is bound to be etched into our memories.

    God saved the Srilankan team but the terrorist achieved their objective easily. They created more hate and terror.

    But let me ask… are they not killing innocent people EVERYDAY? Are we all realizing this only because cricketers were the target? Are other lives not worthy?

    It could be our children and relatives next.
    What will it take for us to see the monster and do something about it?

    Just blaming everybody around and being cynical will not cure the problem. See what you can do about it.

    Unless there is collective effort this is just going to pass into history as another bad day.

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  321. avatar comment-top

    It is time people the powers that be in Pakistan have an honest hard look at themselves. What kind of a nation do they want Pakistan to be? What is that they would like to pass on to their children? To them I say, “For heavens sake, do not live in perpetual denial. Time is running out for all.You are fooling no one but yourselves and the future generations to come. If there is an iota of shame, genuine love for your country and sensibility left in you , act.”.

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    sad and grim day for Pakistan, in my view it is purely a security lapse. Our Prime Minister and President should offer condolences to those who lost lives and especially to our guest Great SriLankan Team who came to support our country in difficult time.
    Salute to Srilanka and Long Live Pakistan

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  323. avatar
    K. George Says:
    March 3rd, 2009 at 20:34
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    It is easy to comprehend the mindset of this cowards, who got no value for life and this thugs have no difference between a soldier, an ordinary human being or a sportsman their mind is designed to kill for what?????????? I really feel sorry for my brothers and sisters who live in Pakistan who cherish and hold cricket to their heart. Why the Sri Lankan team did was targeted?? They agreed to come to your country (even though it was not safe) to rejuvenate your national game. Only one thing I understand from this act terrorists are not your friends and they have nothing to offer for your future other than blowing up and killing innocent people. Understand the problem and isolate this enemy who is only driving down your country and its good ordinary people to isolation. You guys need to separate the religion and politics more over religion and hatred. Stop these religious leaders who preach hatred in the name of God. Killing or attaching innocent people for an