Paradigm Shift in Karachi’s Conflict Matrix: A Case Study

Abstract

Karachi is the only true megalopolis in Pakistan. It is also a textbook case of urban challenges and political vicissitudes. The qualitative study provides an insight into the long standing generic ethno-political realities of the city and the emergence of a new non-state actor, the Taliban, on the scene. This new actor at one time controlled Karachi and was responsible for 90 per cent spike in terrorist attacks in the city. The paper attempts to explain that the violent matrix of Karachi is not about law and order. The law and order break down Karachi experiences, is the byproduct of unprecedented demographic convulsions that the city continues to experience, the conflict under development trap, and the governance break down leading to the phenomenon of mafias and militancy. The ongoing Karachi operation, initiated in September 2013, was the state response to address the deteriorating situation on the ground. Karachi is a resilient city, it has responded positively to the initiative with 360 degree tangible improvement, acknowledged both nationally and internationally. The sustainability of the normalcy restored remains a challenge.