The State Fights Back: A comparative Analysis of Law and Order Situation of Pakistan During 2008 – 2012 (PPP Period) and Its Effects on the Economy

Abstract

The number of blasts started to escalate in 2004 but jumped dramatically in 2007 which was the worst year. The number declined in 2008-2010 but rose sharply again in 2011. In 2008, 2148 terrorist attacks were recorded throughout the country in which 7997 people were killed and 9670 were injured. In this year 63 suicide attacks were recorded. In 2009, 2586 terrorist attacks were recorded in which 3021 people were killed and 7334 were injured. Most of these attacks took place in N.W.F.P. There was 5% increase in number of people killed and injured in this year as compared to previous year. In 2010, 2113 terrorist attacks took place. Number of people killed in these attacks was 2913 and injured 5824. There was 11% decrease in number of incidents and terrorism as compared to previous year. In 2011, Drone attacks and Suicide attacks were reported less. Target killing became the new threat. Only in August 2011, 97 Cases of target killing were reported and 324 people lost their lives in Karachi. In 2012, there were 7% decrease in border attacks, 29% in suicide attacks and 41% in Drone attacks. But 28% increase in sectarian violence, the number of target killing was also increased by 811 and the number of terrorists arrested was 1238. All the above mentioned events lead to serious instability in every sector of the country. Pakistan's economy is affected almost at all economic fronts which comprises of external, industrial, agricultural, business and services sector, etc. Each and every upcoming year for Pakistan has been more effecting the law and order situation in the country.Terrorism creates uncertainty, reduces confidence and increases risk perceptions; leading to lower rates of investment and lower economic growth. In fact, Pakistan has not only lost precious lives and infrastructure; according to official estimates, it has also suffered a loss of around $ 35-40 billion. Pakistan has suffered more than any other country due to the war on terror.