Contrary to the impression created by the reaction of an obviously unnerved regime in Islamabad, independent military analyst Ayesha Siddiqa's recent book, Military Inc.: Inside Pakistan's military economy, does not contain startling revelations, libellous claims or outrageous assertions. In itself, it is not a sensational book, and does not give the impression of having been written with the intent of grabbing headlines. Rather, it is a painstakingly researched academic project, with a central theme couched in a theoretical framework. Nonetheless, the authorities tried strenuously to stop the volume from reaching the bookshelves – in the process, only succeeding in tripling sales.
Siddiqa's work includes a detailed historical analysis of the role of the military in Pakistan, and presents meticulously referenced data on what are essentially public institutions. Again out of line with the government's reaction, some of this material has already been published elsewhere. Much of the analysis includes arguments that have made regular appearance in the past, when Pakistani writers and journalists have reported on the 'perks and privileges' enjoyed by the country's military personnel. Siddiqa's conclusions are disquieting, but anybody who has had an interest in Pakistan's politics and economic history would have already come across similar hypotheses in the extensive literature on state-society relations in the country.
Military Inc.'s scholastic worth is undeniable. If the work had been published five years ago, it probably would have been launched at a sombre function in a five-star hotel, with guest speakers drawn from the senior echelons of the military and possibly civil bureaucracy and academic circles. It would have been discussed for some weeks in newspaper editorials and academic forums, and perhaps been the target of half-hearted rebuttals by the corporations discussed in its pages. The book would have received the sort of attention that a research work of merit can and should receive.
This book, however, had the misfortune – or, indeed, the fortune – to be published in May 2007, at a time when General Pervez Musharraf was beginning to experience what might be the worst crisis of his regime. The timing has propelled both the book and its author into international headlines, with Islamabad attempting to disrupt the launch ceremony, and allegedly sending intelligence agents to intimidate Siddiqa's family. There were subsequent reports that a chargesheet was being prepared against Siddiqa for the publication of 'malicious' material against the armed forces. In the tradition of other Pakistani intellectuals who have dared to question the status quo, Siddiqa has now left the country, perhaps indefinitely.