But does Islam permit concepts like dating?

Depends on which "Islam" we are talking about. The orthodox view, preached in Pakistan, thanks to the clergy, is that na-mahram (unrelated) men cannot be with women. This is only one of the several interpretations in Islam. According to more enlightened interpretations, platonic interaction (don't know about dating per se) and meeting is not un-Islamic. After all, men and women have to meet in colleges, at the workplace, and on social occasions.

Take the case of Iran - there is high level of women's participation in public life. Also look at Indonesia, Malaysia, and Egypt. These are strict Islamic societies, but women are not constrained. In my personal view, dating — if it means an interaction where modesty and limits are observed — is not against Islam. Contrary to the media-generated reality, Islam is actually a tolerant faith preaching moderation, a middle path, and certain limits for the collective good.

Could such trends adversely affect the traditional values of our society?

I am not sure. Interaction between men and women (or same sex encounters) have taken place since time immemorial. I suppose more important things for the youth are awareness on HIV, AIDS, STDs, etc.

Traditional values are being challenged. There is a struggle between Islamists and what one would call the moderates (I am not comfortable with this term, but can't think of another one) taking place in Pakistan. You have a free media here with pop music and radio talk shows blaring out flirtatious conversations and sighs. On the other hand, you also have the Islamic parties in the parliament and the provinces. These are interesting times for Pakistan and I am optimistic. The good from the tradition will survive and all the crap will end up in the dustbin of history.

Mr. Rumi, thanks for talking to me.

You are welcome, Mayank. It is great to come across thinking individuals such as you who have the ability to rise above the mainstream prejudice and officially constructed histories and realities. Keep it up.