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````Talibanization of Pakistan: From 9/11 to 26/11`` is a comprehensive and authoritative handbook on the rise and growth of Islamic militant groups in Pakistan which are a threat to not only neighbouring countries but also the very society that sustains them. The book portrays a dangerous and tragic picture of Pakistan, founded by a secular and moderate leader Mohammad Ali Jinnah, but a nation now on the verge of Talibanization. The author maintains that Pakistan might be a frontline state in the war against terror but jehadi groups continue to thrive there with the tacit support of sections of the military and intelligence establishments.
This book is the story of a monster created by a Frankenstein state which is now out to devour its own master. It is packed with events and anecdotes which, when juxtaposed, give a clear view of how individuals as well as institutions have, in their own ways and for their own self- seeking agendas, watched the creation of a jehadi culture. The author`s effort is best described as a text book on Pakistan`s involvement with al-Qaeda and the Taliban-linked jehadi labyrinth, from which it is not easy for it to come out of. The author takes stock of the 26/11 Mumbai terrorist attack, noting that Pakistan, despite being a key American ally in the war against terrorism for years, continues to reverberate with the call of jehad. Therefore, the flag of militant Islam keeps fluttering high more alarmingly, with the extremist jehadis literally marching on the state.
This is not a book for anyone who is looking for easy solutions; The author addresses the larger issue of Islamic fundamentalism by tracing the socio-political circumstances due to which Pakistan, as a nation state, got into this quagmire. The book is essential reading for those interested in understanding contemporary Pakistan by a Pakistani living in the country, who has come under repeated pressure for his bold writings. This is not an opinion book, but an informative book, created by a Pakistani journalist to expose his country`s own establishment. ``Amir Mir, a former editor of Weekly Independent, is one of Pakistan`s foremost investigative journalists whose insightful writings on terrorism, Islamic militant groups and their links with the country`s military and intelligence establishment have repeatedly drawn the ire of the establishment. He started his journalistic career in 1988 with the English daily The Frontier Post, Lahore, and has worked with numerous leading newspaper organisations in Pakistan and abroad.
He has earlier authored two books on the subject of militant Islam and terrorism. His first book, ``The True Face of Jehadis`` (Mashal Books/Roli Books) was published in 2006; and his second book, ``The Fluttering Flag of Jehad`` (Mashal Books) was published in 2008. He has also co-authored ``Most Wanted: Profiles of Terror`` (Mashal Books) in 2002.
He has also won the prestigious `All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS) Award` in the category of `The Best Investigative Journalist` of Pakistan for the year 2006. He, however, refused to accept the award from the then President, General Pervez Musharraf, as a matter of principle. He is currently affiliated with Pakistan`s leading English newspaper The News, Lahore, as Deputy Editor.
ISBN 9788182744028
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