Pakistan, Oct. 19 -- A state simultaneously embodies the role of both a mother and a father. It cannot always behave with the tenderness and compassion of a mother; at times, it must act with the firmness and authority of a father. When any group, organization, or faction repeatedly attempts to challenge or attack the state, it becomes necessary for the state to take a strong stand to preserve peace and ensure the protection of people's lives and property.

The foremost duty of the state is to safeguard its citizens and bring ease to their lives. When someone tries to hold the state hostage, the state inevitably responds. In recent days, a religious group in Punjab attempted to undermine public rights. Initially, the state showed restrain...