Initial reports indicated the clampdown was meant to target the media and the judiciary, the most sticking thorns in the Musharraf regime’s side as it went about twisting the system to ensure continuity of command. Therefore, the argument citing the deteriorating security situation and expansion of suicide bombings and militia violence from the untamed tribal frontier to calmer areas is not likely to sell as per government plans.

The event marks perhaps the most unfortunate turn in Pakistan’s largely troubled political history. Struggling right from the beginning, surviving the eastern wing amputation and undergoing numerous bouts with autocratic military dictatorship, it seemed the return to democracy was finally imminent. And again, General Musharraf’s decision goes to show how one man’s personal concerns take precedence over an entire nation’s interests in a dictatorship that runs on one precept — survival.

Technically and legally, the situation is difficult to describe. It cannot be accepted, despite government claims, as imposition of emergency, since that would be a constitutional provision and the ’73 constitution already stands suspended. It is also not a regulation Martial Law because the centre claims all governments will continue to function. The only aspect of the scenario that cannot be doubted is that Nov 3, ’07 will stand out as one of the most unfortunate days in Pakistan’s history.

Perhaps the only positive feature of the day was the eight member supreme court bench’s decision to dismiss the new Provisional Court Order (PCO) which replaces the constitution. While it means that a painful army-judiciary tussle is in the offing, the move does dismiss concerns that the judiciary’s newfound autonomy was circumstantial at best.

Islamabad is advised to let saner counsel prevail despite the damage that has already been done. Resorting to Martial Law and emergency is not, in any way, the correct manner of dealing with Pakistan’s worsening security situation. If anything, the government will cut an even sorrier figure should the downtrend continue, which is likely, since it has been effectively established that suicide attacks cannot be countered with force, they need logic.