A test of democracy, a provincial by-election, has brought out the worst in Karachi and plunged Pakistan’s largest and most dynamic city into the worst chaos it has seen in months. Target killings, random shootings and arson have been widespread in response to the PS-94 by-election on October 17, 2010, as rival gangs with undeniable political affiliations once again make Karachi an urban battlefield.

Karachi is not new to violence and every year the streets are stained with blood from political killings. Unfortunately, innocent bystanders often pay the ultimate price too. Moreover, 2010 has had several brutal incidents of urban violence, and the past three months have been particularly bad. Are things spiraling out of control? Is strong action needed now?

Zulfiqar Mirza, Sindh’s  home minister, was quoted calling on party leaders to come forward “to help us turn Karachi back into the city of light and peace.” Will battling political parties change their ways, put down their guns and negotiate in good faith? Or are more drastic measures needed?

Have your say below:

Should the army be called in to Karachi to implement an across-the-board crackdown on criminal gangs?

• Yes (56%, 251 Votes)
• No (43%, 193 Votes)
• Undecided (1%, 12 Votes)

Total Voters: 447