May 1998 Nuclear Tests and After

The defining moment for a peace movement in Pakistan came in the wake of Pokhran-II on May 11 and 13, 1998. Immediately after the Indian nuclear tests, concerned citizens marched on the roads of Islamabad to condemn the event and exhorted the Pakistan government not to reciprocate madness with madness. The march was jointly organised by several NGOs and PIPFPD. In Karachi, representatives of more than 27 NGOs, political parties, trade unions, citizensí groups and civil rights organisations met on 25th May 1998, and besides condemning the Indian nuclear tests, called upon the Government of Pakistan not to follow suit as it would lead to a nuclear race in the subcontinent, with all its devastating consequences. However, on 28th May 1998, Pakistan detonated its nuclear devices, proving her long suspected nuclear prowess.

An immediate fallout of the nuclear tests for the people of Pakistan was the suspension of fundamental constitutional rights in Pakistan, so that the government could prevent citizens from mobilising public opinion against nuclear policies, including the adverse socio-economic impacts of international economic sanctions. A series of other steps, the latest being the introduction of 15th Constitutional Amendment (Islamic Shariat Bill), followed the nuclear blasts. All leading the way to increased State coercion and violence, in opposition to a humane and just society.

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