Violence in Karachi
Ibrat
VIOLENCE erupted between the Urdu- and Pashtu-speaking populations in Karachi on Saturday…. Markets in many places were forced to pull down their shutters as life came to a halt.
Dangerous tensions … between these two ethnic groups simmer constantly in the mega city…. They increased in recent weeks when the MQM raised the issue of Talibanisation….
The holding of a joint press conference by Home Minister Zulfiqar Mirza and leaders of the MQM and ANP was an encouraging step taken by the Sindh government. Coalition partners categorically said that no one would be allowed to disturb the city’s peace.
Karachi is braving an unchecked inflow of people which is creating a serious problem in Pakistan’s business capital. A large population of Afghans has settled in thickly populated areas. No registration is carried out and the government does not have details as to why they have come and what they are doing here. A large number of illegal aliens … coming into this city … were getting national identity cards … and no one was looking into the matter. This situation has created many fears and apprehensions about law and order. The increase in crime in the city is a manifestation of the same trend.
In fact no serious attempt was made to register the Afghans and recover arms.…The law and order situation in Karachi is a very serious issue as coalition partners have big political stakes in this regard. It was their duty to observe restraint as Saturday’s violence has once again given the impression that it is easy to disturb the law and order of this huge metropolis. But it is very difficult to establish some kind of lasting harmony…. This can only be achieved when coalition partners who are direct stakeholders in this city rise above party politics.
People too deserve a safer living environment. To restore peace in Karachi, there is an urgent need to conduct an operation without resorting to any discrimination to recover arms and flush out Afghan and other illegal migrants. Karachi’s political players need to play a role. All parties without any political considerations should extend their cooperation so that this business hub can be made into an arms-free zone. There should be no political expediency on the question of flushing out illegal immigrants and recovering arms which is the root cause of the disturbed law and order and … the eruption of violence…. This should be made clear to the people … as it is the only solution to Karachi’s unfortunate tendency to erupt into violence unexpectedly. — (Nov 30)
— Selected and translated by Sohail Sangi.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Friday, August 1, 2008
Prime minister’s US visit
Prime minister’s US visit
Awami Awaz
IT is hoped that Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani’s three-day visit to Washington will make the present government more steadfast in taking decisions on domestic as well as foreign policy matters. He is expected to meet President George Bush, the secretary of state, members of American think tanks and presidential candidate Barack Obama. He will hold talks on Pak-American relations, the war on terror, Pak-Afghan relations and other important issues. It is believed that the future of President Gen Musharraf and the restoration of the judges will also come under discussion.
If the prime minister succeeds in building a working relationship with the US, the government will be in a position to work in an undaunted manner. Otherwise dictatorship and undemocratic forces will prevail. Therefore, this visit is of the utmost importance and is an opportunity to strengthen ties between the US and the PPP.
A meeting of the coalition partners took place prior to the departure of the prime minister. In a briefing by Information Minister Sherry Rehman the press was apprised of the fact that a balanced outline for the talks has been worked out which will prove to be of mutual benefit to both countries and should be acceptable to the US.
Will Pakistan be able to use this opportunity to put forward the grievances of the populace? We believe that Pakistan should convey what the world expects from the US as a superpower. The prime minister should articulate the perception of the Pakistani people that the US is the root cause of all the problems in Pakistan. This is due to its unwavering support for undemocratic and unpopular forces which has damaged the image of the US, portraying it as an imperialist force.
The US might be a functioning democracy at home but in the rest of the world it is recognised as an imperialist and undemocratic country. The US should be informed that the world considers the 9/11 incident to be a farce, a drama played out to use force against Muslim countries on the pretext of terrorism…. The US previously promoted fundamentalism to contain the Soviet Union. The people of Pakistan consider the US responsible for creating obstacles in the way of democracy and extending support to undemocratic and dictatorial regimes.
If this impression is wrong, the US should cooperate with the elected government which should be allowed to carry on with its independent policies so that it may succeed in introducing a democratic system in accordance with the wishes of the people. Pakistan will have to convince the US that the solution to all the problems lies in democracy and through negotiations and that America should change its stance. — (July 27)
— Selected and translated by Sohail Sangi.
Awami Awaz
IT is hoped that Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani’s three-day visit to Washington will make the present government more steadfast in taking decisions on domestic as well as foreign policy matters. He is expected to meet President George Bush, the secretary of state, members of American think tanks and presidential candidate Barack Obama. He will hold talks on Pak-American relations, the war on terror, Pak-Afghan relations and other important issues. It is believed that the future of President Gen Musharraf and the restoration of the judges will also come under discussion.
If the prime minister succeeds in building a working relationship with the US, the government will be in a position to work in an undaunted manner. Otherwise dictatorship and undemocratic forces will prevail. Therefore, this visit is of the utmost importance and is an opportunity to strengthen ties between the US and the PPP.
A meeting of the coalition partners took place prior to the departure of the prime minister. In a briefing by Information Minister Sherry Rehman the press was apprised of the fact that a balanced outline for the talks has been worked out which will prove to be of mutual benefit to both countries and should be acceptable to the US.
Will Pakistan be able to use this opportunity to put forward the grievances of the populace? We believe that Pakistan should convey what the world expects from the US as a superpower. The prime minister should articulate the perception of the Pakistani people that the US is the root cause of all the problems in Pakistan. This is due to its unwavering support for undemocratic and unpopular forces which has damaged the image of the US, portraying it as an imperialist force.
The US might be a functioning democracy at home but in the rest of the world it is recognised as an imperialist and undemocratic country. The US should be informed that the world considers the 9/11 incident to be a farce, a drama played out to use force against Muslim countries on the pretext of terrorism…. The US previously promoted fundamentalism to contain the Soviet Union. The people of Pakistan consider the US responsible for creating obstacles in the way of democracy and extending support to undemocratic and dictatorial regimes.
If this impression is wrong, the US should cooperate with the elected government which should be allowed to carry on with its independent policies so that it may succeed in introducing a democratic system in accordance with the wishes of the people. Pakistan will have to convince the US that the solution to all the problems lies in democracy and through negotiations and that America should change its stance. — (July 27)
— Selected and translated by Sohail Sangi.
Sindh’s share in Thar coal
Sindh’s share in Thar coal
Kawish
The government’s decision to use the Thar coal reserves for power generation is a positive move. According to the plan, 1,000 megawatts of power will be generated and within six years the figure will rise to 6,000 megawatts. An international conference is to be held in Washington to seek foreign investment in this endeavour. This will surely help overcome obstacles which have so far hindered progress on this project. Foreign companies have expressed interest in the project time and again but these moves have been jeopardised by certain hidden forces.
However, there is no gain for the people of the province whenever Sindh’s resources are utilised. It is evident from the Badin oil and Ghotki gas [projects] that Sindh is the richest region in terms of natural resources. It is unfortunate that despite these resources abject poverty is widespread and the poor are compelled to commit suicide. A number of such incidents have been reported in the press. Sindh did not benefit from the oil exploration and similarly it got nothing when it came to gas.
Now when coal is being exploited, authority and power have been transferred to the centre. Constitutionally and in accordance with fundamental human rights, the first right of utilisation of natural resources goes to the local indigenous people. Regrettably neither the constitution nor human rights are adhered to, hence the local population gets no benefit whatsoever from its own resources.
Leave aside a share in the income from these resources, local people are not even given jobs in the companies which extract oil from their lands. Media reports provide ample evidence of protests by local people demanding jobs in these companies.
It is universally recognised that wherever companies explore or exploit oil or gas, priority vis-à-vis jobs is given to the local people. As neither the political parties nor civil society organisations have properly represented these people and played a positive and effective role, this universally recognised principle does not get implemented here. It should be noted that the issue is not of jobs alone but the also the fact that locals are deprived of even this small part in the overall gains made by exploitation.
The people of Sindh have been demanding exploitation of Thar coal but not at this cost. It is imperative that any agency that is involved in the exploitation of black gold should work under the Sindh government. This is purely a provincial matter and its administration and implementation should come under the Sindh government. If power over provincial resources continues to be transferred to the federal government, it will create more doubts and misunderstandings. When the PPP came to power, it announced that provincial autonomy is among its top priorities. This begs the question: how does the transfer of natural resources to the federal government make provinces autonomous? — (July 18)
— Selected and translated by Sohail Sangi.
Kawish
The government’s decision to use the Thar coal reserves for power generation is a positive move. According to the plan, 1,000 megawatts of power will be generated and within six years the figure will rise to 6,000 megawatts. An international conference is to be held in Washington to seek foreign investment in this endeavour. This will surely help overcome obstacles which have so far hindered progress on this project. Foreign companies have expressed interest in the project time and again but these moves have been jeopardised by certain hidden forces.
However, there is no gain for the people of the province whenever Sindh’s resources are utilised. It is evident from the Badin oil and Ghotki gas [projects] that Sindh is the richest region in terms of natural resources. It is unfortunate that despite these resources abject poverty is widespread and the poor are compelled to commit suicide. A number of such incidents have been reported in the press. Sindh did not benefit from the oil exploration and similarly it got nothing when it came to gas.
Now when coal is being exploited, authority and power have been transferred to the centre. Constitutionally and in accordance with fundamental human rights, the first right of utilisation of natural resources goes to the local indigenous people. Regrettably neither the constitution nor human rights are adhered to, hence the local population gets no benefit whatsoever from its own resources.
Leave aside a share in the income from these resources, local people are not even given jobs in the companies which extract oil from their lands. Media reports provide ample evidence of protests by local people demanding jobs in these companies.
It is universally recognised that wherever companies explore or exploit oil or gas, priority vis-à-vis jobs is given to the local people. As neither the political parties nor civil society organisations have properly represented these people and played a positive and effective role, this universally recognised principle does not get implemented here. It should be noted that the issue is not of jobs alone but the also the fact that locals are deprived of even this small part in the overall gains made by exploitation.
The people of Sindh have been demanding exploitation of Thar coal but not at this cost. It is imperative that any agency that is involved in the exploitation of black gold should work under the Sindh government. This is purely a provincial matter and its administration and implementation should come under the Sindh government. If power over provincial resources continues to be transferred to the federal government, it will create more doubts and misunderstandings. When the PPP came to power, it announced that provincial autonomy is among its top priorities. This begs the question: how does the transfer of natural resources to the federal government make provinces autonomous? — (July 18)
— Selected and translated by Sohail Sangi.
Regime’s survival
Regime’s survival
Awami Awaz
THE present political situation is not acceptable. Groups with vested interests and imperialist forces are amplifying the uncertainty that has prevailed in the country. This is part of the recurring cycle of the last 60 years in which democratic governments have not been allowed to function. Once again there has been an attempt to raise perceptions of ineptitude and the incapability of the government. The real antagonism lies between the forces of democracy and dictatorship. Undemocratic forces are dominating the system of the country and are not allowing the democratic government to flourish.
It is regrettable that the undemocratic forces have joined hands with each other and are engaged in weakening the democratic process, paving the way for dictatorship.
Here democratic forces should come forward and play their part. A hue and cry has been raised in the short span of three months of the present government. It is strange that judgment is being passed on these three months in office as if the mandate was for only three months. Lapses in implementation of the ‘100 days plan’ are being perceived as a total failure of the government, notwithstanding the fact that the government has given a plan for improving its performance. The need of the hour is that the people’s mandate should be respected and this government and the democratic process should be allowed to work. — (July 12)
Bhutto’s murder
Sindh
FOREIGN Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi’s visit to the UN headquarters has resulted in an announcement by UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon’s office that a broad understanding has been reached between the UN and the Pakistan government on the nature of the proposed commission [that will probe Benazir Bhutto’s murder], the composition of the commission, unhindered access to all sources of relevant information, and the commission’s impartiality and independence.
People are raising questions about the death of their leader which has been shrouded in mystery. They want the culprits to be tried and the hands behind this conspiracy to be exposed. This is the demand not only of the PPP but also the people of all four provinces.
The PPP is in power and there should be no hurdles in conducting an impartial investigation. There might be some elements that do not want such an investigation but while the PPP is in power these quarters should not be in a position to influence the investigation. The other coalition partners are also supporting this move, which has further strengthened the position of the government. The UN commission to investigate this murder case is a welcome development and it is now incumbent on the government to provide facilities to the investigators. — (July 13)
— Selected and translated by Sohail Sangi.
Awami Awaz
THE present political situation is not acceptable. Groups with vested interests and imperialist forces are amplifying the uncertainty that has prevailed in the country. This is part of the recurring cycle of the last 60 years in which democratic governments have not been allowed to function. Once again there has been an attempt to raise perceptions of ineptitude and the incapability of the government. The real antagonism lies between the forces of democracy and dictatorship. Undemocratic forces are dominating the system of the country and are not allowing the democratic government to flourish.
It is regrettable that the undemocratic forces have joined hands with each other and are engaged in weakening the democratic process, paving the way for dictatorship.
Here democratic forces should come forward and play their part. A hue and cry has been raised in the short span of three months of the present government. It is strange that judgment is being passed on these three months in office as if the mandate was for only three months. Lapses in implementation of the ‘100 days plan’ are being perceived as a total failure of the government, notwithstanding the fact that the government has given a plan for improving its performance. The need of the hour is that the people’s mandate should be respected and this government and the democratic process should be allowed to work. — (July 12)
Bhutto’s murder
Sindh
FOREIGN Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi’s visit to the UN headquarters has resulted in an announcement by UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon’s office that a broad understanding has been reached between the UN and the Pakistan government on the nature of the proposed commission [that will probe Benazir Bhutto’s murder], the composition of the commission, unhindered access to all sources of relevant information, and the commission’s impartiality and independence.
People are raising questions about the death of their leader which has been shrouded in mystery. They want the culprits to be tried and the hands behind this conspiracy to be exposed. This is the demand not only of the PPP but also the people of all four provinces.
The PPP is in power and there should be no hurdles in conducting an impartial investigation. There might be some elements that do not want such an investigation but while the PPP is in power these quarters should not be in a position to influence the investigation. The other coalition partners are also supporting this move, which has further strengthened the position of the government. The UN commission to investigate this murder case is a welcome development and it is now incumbent on the government to provide facilities to the investigators. — (July 13)
— Selected and translated by Sohail Sangi.
Why fight others’ war?
Why fight others’ war?
Hilal Pakistan
The statement of ANP leader Shahi Syed has elicited a strong response from the nationalist groups of Sindh who argue that, given the fact that only the indigenous people of the soil as opposed to outsiders and immigrants have rights to the land and resources of the province, Pathans have no right to lay claim over Sindh. The fact is that not only Pathans, but people belonging to different ethnic groups and areas have come here for labour, economic and other interests. They have settled here through legal and illegal means and are now laying claim to the land and resources of Sindh.
If this statement had been issued by ANP chief Asfandyar Wali or some other central leader it would have carried some weight.
Another interpretation of this statement is that the ANP leader was not addressing the Sindhi people but the Urdu-speaking section of the population which is supported by the MQM. The proper context seems to be that segment of the Urdu-speaking population which considers itself to be the sole owner of Karachi. The conflict of interest between the two sections is evident which has resulted in bloodshed at innumerable occasions in Karachi. The latest one was that of May 12, 2007 followed by intermittent outbreaks of violence.
It was the city nazim of Karachi who apprised the Sindhi people of the growing influence of Pathans in Karachi.
Why should the Sindhis get involved in the prevailing situation of a war between two groups fighting for greater influence? We think that Sindhi nationalists should take stock of the situation and formulate their point of view and strategy while keeping ground realities in view. — (July 6)
— Selected and translated by Sohail Sangi
Hilal Pakistan
The statement of ANP leader Shahi Syed has elicited a strong response from the nationalist groups of Sindh who argue that, given the fact that only the indigenous people of the soil as opposed to outsiders and immigrants have rights to the land and resources of the province, Pathans have no right to lay claim over Sindh. The fact is that not only Pathans, but people belonging to different ethnic groups and areas have come here for labour, economic and other interests. They have settled here through legal and illegal means and are now laying claim to the land and resources of Sindh.
If this statement had been issued by ANP chief Asfandyar Wali or some other central leader it would have carried some weight.
Another interpretation of this statement is that the ANP leader was not addressing the Sindhi people but the Urdu-speaking section of the population which is supported by the MQM. The proper context seems to be that segment of the Urdu-speaking population which considers itself to be the sole owner of Karachi. The conflict of interest between the two sections is evident which has resulted in bloodshed at innumerable occasions in Karachi. The latest one was that of May 12, 2007 followed by intermittent outbreaks of violence.
It was the city nazim of Karachi who apprised the Sindhi people of the growing influence of Pathans in Karachi.
Why should the Sindhis get involved in the prevailing situation of a war between two groups fighting for greater influence? We think that Sindhi nationalists should take stock of the situation and formulate their point of view and strategy while keeping ground realities in view. — (July 6)
— Selected and translated by Sohail Sangi
Providing information not sufficient
Providing information not sufficient
Kawish
The Sindh Assembly passed a budget of Rs2.47tr for the province. The house also approved 59 schemes presented by the chief minister and rejected 552 proposals from the opposition. Besides the passing of the budget, the information provided by the irrigation minister is of equal importance. He declared that Sindh is braving 46 per cent shortage of water, and the sea has eroded 609,000 acres of land. The opposition refuted the demands of the government and insisted that the expenses of the Sindh Chief Minister House and other amounts allocated for gifts and entertainment purposes should be curtailed and used instead for the benefit of the poor.
It is strange that the opposition was talking about the manifesto of the ruling party. It is also interesting to note that the opposition — whichever party it may be — acquires the ability to empathise with the poor only when in opposition. Their concern vanishes when in power. This is not only true for those in the opposition today but for those who have been there in the past and will be in the future. Can one have a pro-poor bias only while in the opposition? Is it mandatory that those in opposition should oppose every action of the government, rejecting all their proposals? It should be noted that there is a common factor between the opposition and treasury members — they have all been elected by the people to resolve their problems. We need to deal with the innate hostilities between the two or else the government will not be able to perform and neither will the opposition be able to play an effective role.
Another important aspect of the budget session was the information provided by the Sindh irrigation minister. Needless to say, sea erosion and shortage of water are interconnected problems. The sea eroded fertile lands of Sindh because the required amount of water was not released downstream Kotri. Sea activity has amplified over the decades and is affecting the ecosystem, making agricultural lands barren, contaminating aquifers and causing degradation of land. It is regrettable that a huge area of fertile land has been eroded by sea water, but what is unfortunate is that no effective strategy has been evolved to check this erosion. No measures have been taken to ensure that this does not happen in the future.
We are grateful to the Sindh irrigation minister for providing this ‘valuable’ piece of information. However, the provision of information will not suffice and the government’s inaction is deplorable. The government should devise strategies and take effective measures and obtain water for downstream Kotri, which is the only guarantee to limit sea water erosion. Successive governments were also providing information; this government should however behave in a different manner. If the incumbent minister keeps giving updates, there will be no difference between him and his predecessors. — (June 29)
— Selected and translated by Sohail Sangi
Kawish
The Sindh Assembly passed a budget of Rs2.47tr for the province. The house also approved 59 schemes presented by the chief minister and rejected 552 proposals from the opposition. Besides the passing of the budget, the information provided by the irrigation minister is of equal importance. He declared that Sindh is braving 46 per cent shortage of water, and the sea has eroded 609,000 acres of land. The opposition refuted the demands of the government and insisted that the expenses of the Sindh Chief Minister House and other amounts allocated for gifts and entertainment purposes should be curtailed and used instead for the benefit of the poor.
It is strange that the opposition was talking about the manifesto of the ruling party. It is also interesting to note that the opposition — whichever party it may be — acquires the ability to empathise with the poor only when in opposition. Their concern vanishes when in power. This is not only true for those in the opposition today but for those who have been there in the past and will be in the future. Can one have a pro-poor bias only while in the opposition? Is it mandatory that those in opposition should oppose every action of the government, rejecting all their proposals? It should be noted that there is a common factor between the opposition and treasury members — they have all been elected by the people to resolve their problems. We need to deal with the innate hostilities between the two or else the government will not be able to perform and neither will the opposition be able to play an effective role.
Another important aspect of the budget session was the information provided by the Sindh irrigation minister. Needless to say, sea erosion and shortage of water are interconnected problems. The sea eroded fertile lands of Sindh because the required amount of water was not released downstream Kotri. Sea activity has amplified over the decades and is affecting the ecosystem, making agricultural lands barren, contaminating aquifers and causing degradation of land. It is regrettable that a huge area of fertile land has been eroded by sea water, but what is unfortunate is that no effective strategy has been evolved to check this erosion. No measures have been taken to ensure that this does not happen in the future.
We are grateful to the Sindh irrigation minister for providing this ‘valuable’ piece of information. However, the provision of information will not suffice and the government’s inaction is deplorable. The government should devise strategies and take effective measures and obtain water for downstream Kotri, which is the only guarantee to limit sea water erosion. Successive governments were also providing information; this government should however behave in a different manner. If the incumbent minister keeps giving updates, there will be no difference between him and his predecessors. — (June 29)
— Selected and translated by Sohail Sangi
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Political Role of Sindhi Press
Political Role of Sindhi Press
Lecture points – Sohail Sangi, Millennium Seminar of Daily Kawish and Hyderabad Press club programme.
- Sindhi Press is the only developed regional press of Pakistan as other provincial languages i.e. Balochi, Pushto, Punjabi has no Press. Recently some papers are being published in Pushto but they are very formative phase. Hussain Naqi a renowned left oriented journalist tried to bring out a newspaper ”Punjab Punch” but this could not succeed.
- Sindhi Press was started in colonial period and it was time of political upheavals. Major development of Sindhi press was seen after Indian government Act of 1935, when political activities were getting momentum, which were properly reflected and reported in Sindhi press. Those were the times when all the press of subcontinent was playing major political role.
- Movement for Sindh’s separation from Bombay also witnessed a major political movement in Sindh and Sindhi press played its role. AL Waheed a popular newspaper bought a special number which was late re published.
- All the big names in Sindhi journalism have been poltical persons i.e. Shaikh Abdul Majeed Sindhi, Molvi Khair Mohammed Nizamani, Sobho Gianchandani, Shaikh Ali Mohammmed, Shaikh Aziz, Sirajul Haq Memon, Sohail Sangi, Faqir Mohammed Lashari, Badar Abro and others.
- During fifties, newspapers were owned by political personalities. Najumuddin Sarewal (Karwan), Nawae Sindh GM Syed, Abdul Shakoor Munshi ( Hilal-e- Pakistan, Kazi Mohammed Akber (Ibrat). In sixties Pir Pagaro purchased daily Mehran which was edited by Syed Sardar Ali Shah.
- Ayub took over Pakistan progressive papers limited a group of newspapers (Pakistan Times, Imroz, Lail-o-Nahar) all English and urdu.
- Ayub to get hold of press formed a government trust, which brought Morning News in English and Mashriq in Urdu. Mashriq was published from all the four provincial capitals.
- In Ayub era there was Press and Publication Ordinance which discourage easy declaration to bring out newspapers. This led to publications of magazine types in the name of series.
- PPP launched daily Hilal-e-Pakistan in Sindhi and Musawat in Urdu.
- Jamat Isalmi launched Daily Jassarat.
- When Bhutto took over after independence of Bagladesh, he banned over one hundred such publications/series.
- Federal government financed AL Waheed in early nineties. It was considered a project of ISPR (public relations organisation of Pak Army.
- Benazir Bhutto as leader of opposition at number of times held exclusivel meetings with Sindhi editors.
- Sindhi Editors formed a body to stop government pressur during Jam Sadiq period. The name of body was Sindhi Editors Council.
- During Nawaz Sharif second period of rule, his information minister Mushahid Hussain Syed proposed to launch Sindhi service of APP a government owned news agency. This idea was matured in 2005 during Musharraf era.
- Mushahid Hussain in a bid to win over the favour of Sindhi journalists organized series of training workshops and seminar in Islamabad for Sindhi journalists where the government also arranged some visits for these journalists.
- Asif Zardari (in the second period of BB) called over 60 Sindhi journalists at Islamabad to get support of Sindhi media.
- At number of times MQM chief Altaf Hussain chose to address exclusively Sindhi journalists from 2000 to onwards.
- General Pervez Musharaf held exclusively at least two meeting with over 40 Sindhi journalists in a bid to get support for controversial water reservoir Kalabagh Dam and his policies.
- In 1993 elections BB hinted out that she would perfre to wawrd tickect to those having newspapers. (Asad Kazi owner of Daily Ibrat was awarded ticket)
- PPP with government patronage launched Sindhi daily Bakhtawar.
- Presntly the major newspaper groups – Kawish and Ibrat - belong to political families.
- Sindhi press is vocal press on the issues of provincial rights and human rights.
- Sindhi people consider that they were deprived of their rightsafter Pakistan and they have been struggling against One Unit, status of Sindhi language, and immigrants influx in Sindh etc. Therefore its point of view is different from mainstream media which is called national press etc.
Lecture points – Sohail Sangi, Millennium Seminar of Daily Kawish and Hyderabad Press club programme.
- Sindhi Press is the only developed regional press of Pakistan as other provincial languages i.e. Balochi, Pushto, Punjabi has no Press. Recently some papers are being published in Pushto but they are very formative phase. Hussain Naqi a renowned left oriented journalist tried to bring out a newspaper ”Punjab Punch” but this could not succeed.
- Sindhi Press was started in colonial period and it was time of political upheavals. Major development of Sindhi press was seen after Indian government Act of 1935, when political activities were getting momentum, which were properly reflected and reported in Sindhi press. Those were the times when all the press of subcontinent was playing major political role.
- Movement for Sindh’s separation from Bombay also witnessed a major political movement in Sindh and Sindhi press played its role. AL Waheed a popular newspaper bought a special number which was late re published.
- All the big names in Sindhi journalism have been poltical persons i.e. Shaikh Abdul Majeed Sindhi, Molvi Khair Mohammed Nizamani, Sobho Gianchandani, Shaikh Ali Mohammmed, Shaikh Aziz, Sirajul Haq Memon, Sohail Sangi, Faqir Mohammed Lashari, Badar Abro and others.
- During fifties, newspapers were owned by political personalities. Najumuddin Sarewal (Karwan), Nawae Sindh GM Syed, Abdul Shakoor Munshi ( Hilal-e- Pakistan, Kazi Mohammed Akber (Ibrat). In sixties Pir Pagaro purchased daily Mehran which was edited by Syed Sardar Ali Shah.
- Ayub took over Pakistan progressive papers limited a group of newspapers (Pakistan Times, Imroz, Lail-o-Nahar) all English and urdu.
- Ayub to get hold of press formed a government trust, which brought Morning News in English and Mashriq in Urdu. Mashriq was published from all the four provincial capitals.
- In Ayub era there was Press and Publication Ordinance which discourage easy declaration to bring out newspapers. This led to publications of magazine types in the name of series.
- PPP launched daily Hilal-e-Pakistan in Sindhi and Musawat in Urdu.
- Jamat Isalmi launched Daily Jassarat.
- When Bhutto took over after independence of Bagladesh, he banned over one hundred such publications/series.
- Federal government financed AL Waheed in early nineties. It was considered a project of ISPR (public relations organisation of Pak Army.
- Benazir Bhutto as leader of opposition at number of times held exclusivel meetings with Sindhi editors.
- Sindhi Editors formed a body to stop government pressur during Jam Sadiq period. The name of body was Sindhi Editors Council.
- During Nawaz Sharif second period of rule, his information minister Mushahid Hussain Syed proposed to launch Sindhi service of APP a government owned news agency. This idea was matured in 2005 during Musharraf era.
- Mushahid Hussain in a bid to win over the favour of Sindhi journalists organized series of training workshops and seminar in Islamabad for Sindhi journalists where the government also arranged some visits for these journalists.
- Asif Zardari (in the second period of BB) called over 60 Sindhi journalists at Islamabad to get support of Sindhi media.
- At number of times MQM chief Altaf Hussain chose to address exclusively Sindhi journalists from 2000 to onwards.
- General Pervez Musharaf held exclusively at least two meeting with over 40 Sindhi journalists in a bid to get support for controversial water reservoir Kalabagh Dam and his policies.
- In 1993 elections BB hinted out that she would perfre to wawrd tickect to those having newspapers. (Asad Kazi owner of Daily Ibrat was awarded ticket)
- PPP with government patronage launched Sindhi daily Bakhtawar.
- Presntly the major newspaper groups – Kawish and Ibrat - belong to political families.
- Sindhi press is vocal press on the issues of provincial rights and human rights.
- Sindhi people consider that they were deprived of their rightsafter Pakistan and they have been struggling against One Unit, status of Sindhi language, and immigrants influx in Sindh etc. Therefore its point of view is different from mainstream media which is called national press etc.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Taking justice in hands
Advisor to Prime Minister for Interior affairs and security Malik Rehman is on record, he has said on April 9, after Karachi killings that no tyre will be burnt from today and onwards in Karachi. This might have worried the junk trades of tyre, but people at large have expressed their happiness. Perhaps, the advisor was right and we witnessed that no tyre was burnt after that, rather we witness that human being are set on fire. The roads of Karachi had become Shamshan Ghat.
People after disappointed from the administrative and judicial system have taken justice in their hands. Saturday’s incident was second in the series in which provoked people at Sakhi Hassan caught hold of robbers/thieves and set them fire. In the first incident enraged mob got hold of two robbers in Ranchhor lines that had committed dacoity in a flat and burnt them alive. This all happened not some far flung area where there is no reach of police or other administrative machinery, but it was in Karachi, the provincial capital of Sindh. In Karachi there are two governments one of provincial and another is of city government. It seems that there is no central command in the province.
Whether there are thieves or other criminals, it is not in the purview of the common man to punish them. If it continues, any one would catch his rival and set on fire terming him/her as thief. It is agreed that this was a spontaneous reaction of the people.
This spontaneous reaction was proving the non existence of law. In fact this reaction indicates inner anger of the people and protest against the administration and system. People gather anger and it outburst on certain point.
When people do not get good governance and they feel unprotected, they create new forms of their resistance and response. Here I am not disputing as to how much this form was legal nor discussing what were the psychological initiatives, because psychological reasons are best known to every one. Point is why state has failed to feel its presence? Hunger, unemployment, sense of insecurity and price spiral has crossed the level of tolerance. People either loose their sense out of fear or express their extreme reaction.
People have set ablaze thieves and robbers in two above incidents. This was murder a crime, the accused were punished more than their crime. This should also be investigated whether these incidents were spontenous or certain elements were behind it, who wanted to destablise the elected governemnet.
The attitude of police to the robbers set on fire is strage as police remained silent spectors. The reputation of police has reached to a degree that people were not ready to hand over the accused caught in the crime. Though this trend is limited up Karachi for time being, but after such happenings in Karachi may set model stting.
The incidents of crime which later led to burning of the accused took place in the braod day light. The robbers and criminals have become so daring that they were not fearing of law, neither iron hand of law. When iron hand of law is paralysed and collapsed, such type of incidents took place.
This trend indicates people’s resentment and no confidence in law and judicial system. After disappointed from the system people have adapted their own methods to restore justice. People want protection, protection from robbers, and dracoin form of police . What the state was doing for the peope? It was doing nothing, then it was understood that people were making their own decisions.
If this was not stopped, and law of the land was not made operative, a number of criminals and organized mafia would push the country to anarchy from hwere its return would be if not pssoble but would be difficult one.
The situation can not be reversed through implementing the existing law – which treats people indiscriminate manner.
If people had trust in law and judiciary this would have not happened. Restore the writ of law.
People after disappointed from the administrative and judicial system have taken justice in their hands. Saturday’s incident was second in the series in which provoked people at Sakhi Hassan caught hold of robbers/thieves and set them fire. In the first incident enraged mob got hold of two robbers in Ranchhor lines that had committed dacoity in a flat and burnt them alive. This all happened not some far flung area where there is no reach of police or other administrative machinery, but it was in Karachi, the provincial capital of Sindh. In Karachi there are two governments one of provincial and another is of city government. It seems that there is no central command in the province.
Whether there are thieves or other criminals, it is not in the purview of the common man to punish them. If it continues, any one would catch his rival and set on fire terming him/her as thief. It is agreed that this was a spontaneous reaction of the people.
This spontaneous reaction was proving the non existence of law. In fact this reaction indicates inner anger of the people and protest against the administration and system. People gather anger and it outburst on certain point.
When people do not get good governance and they feel unprotected, they create new forms of their resistance and response. Here I am not disputing as to how much this form was legal nor discussing what were the psychological initiatives, because psychological reasons are best known to every one. Point is why state has failed to feel its presence? Hunger, unemployment, sense of insecurity and price spiral has crossed the level of tolerance. People either loose their sense out of fear or express their extreme reaction.
People have set ablaze thieves and robbers in two above incidents. This was murder a crime, the accused were punished more than their crime. This should also be investigated whether these incidents were spontenous or certain elements were behind it, who wanted to destablise the elected governemnet.
The attitude of police to the robbers set on fire is strage as police remained silent spectors. The reputation of police has reached to a degree that people were not ready to hand over the accused caught in the crime. Though this trend is limited up Karachi for time being, but after such happenings in Karachi may set model stting.
The incidents of crime which later led to burning of the accused took place in the braod day light. The robbers and criminals have become so daring that they were not fearing of law, neither iron hand of law. When iron hand of law is paralysed and collapsed, such type of incidents took place.
This trend indicates people’s resentment and no confidence in law and judicial system. After disappointed from the system people have adapted their own methods to restore justice. People want protection, protection from robbers, and dracoin form of police . What the state was doing for the peope? It was doing nothing, then it was understood that people were making their own decisions.
If this was not stopped, and law of the land was not made operative, a number of criminals and organized mafia would push the country to anarchy from hwere its return would be if not pssoble but would be difficult one.
The situation can not be reversed through implementing the existing law – which treats people indiscriminate manner.
If people had trust in law and judiciary this would have not happened. Restore the writ of law.
Lifestyle of Thar
Lifestyle of Thar
By Sohail Sangi
The nature and mind set of Thari people can be defined in one sentence. They are uncertain therefore whatever they see they want to make sure after touching that it is reality. This uncertainty is generated by the conditions in which they live in.
Visit to Sindh is incomplete without adventures in Thar Desert. This monsoon type desert surrounded by sand dunes is spread over 28,000 square kilometers, is a continuation of the Rajasthan arid zone.
This desert has folklores, a culture of its own, unique landscape, flora and fauna. It provides variety of opportunities to explore and an absorbing study of Sindhi culture.
The culture, the people, their way of life, and beauty of the surrounding desert landscape adds to the adventurous spirit.
TV plays - Akhri Geet of Asghar Nadeem Syed and Karwan of Abdul Qadir Junejo have been written in background of Thar which up to some extend depict the life style of Thar.
Thar is the land where folk tales and folk songs exist in their original form. It is land of shifting dunes but people have any how learnt to live life and adapt their style, which is very much typical and an example how to live life.
Life in Thar is full of action and thrill for visitors as they discover indigenous cultures, lifestyle and traditions. Sun- rising and sun-setting scenes viewed from atop of a due camel caravans, grazing herds, big and small sand dunes with thorny bushes, traditional dresses and jewellery of women, folk songs sung in wilderness are some more peculiarities of Thar.
Panhiari -Water girl of Thar in traditional clothes and bangles has been immortalized by the writers and media persons.
In fact Thar is a cultural island in the mid of Sindhi, Rajhastani and Gujrati ocean of culture. However, the Rajhastani culture predominate the other two cultures.
Red and dark colours are hallmark of Thar, through which they want to create colour in the dull desert scenario.
Thar is considered to be land of mighty River Sarswati which flowed through the region thousands of years ago but gone missing. So this is land of people whose river had gone missing.
In some mythologies, Thar has been symbolized as Maroothal - the harsh, hostile and merciless land but People have evolved and learnt the tricks of nature into their life so perfectly, that it has changed its course. Conservation, preservation and savings have become in-built of Thari people. They are more environment friendly and use natural resources with a notion of conservation.
No one is allowed to chop a tree or plant unnecessarily, while hunting and poarching of wildlife is socially banned, that is why one can see peacocks playing in the villages. TO collect wild tree fruits- Peeloo and Singri are favourite among the women in hot spell of May.
Tharis each day fight a battle for survival; against the creeping sands, shifting dunes, erratic weather, hot winds and droughts. In such conditions these simple but tough people have not only survived, but have created a culture that is vibrant, colourful and full of life, which stands in complete contrast to the land they live in.
So far livelihood is concerned; their entire dependence is on rains which fall in the monsoon. These sandy are, hot weather and dependence on monsoon rain have formed a typical patterns of relations (social and with nature both), consumption, culture, lifestyle, entertainment, and dress. This is also reflected individual's attitudes, values or worldview.
When it rains, water deposits in tobas (small ponds) which are used for drinking, washing and other purposes. This continues for three months after monsoon. Later Tharis have to depend on deep wells for fetching water.
The apparent poverty among the desert people had not weakened their bond of colorful, happy and proud community with their own way of gregariousness and jubilee.
Mostly people live in jhugis - huts a room formed with straws and thin wood-sticks). These jhugis are most vulnerable to the wind storm.
The living conditions and livelihood resources have necessitated tolive with inter-dependence and community social support system exits in Thar That is why it has by at large joint family system. Elders and women folks, particularly daughter are given more respect, which have become part of their traditions.
Women
Thari women wear Ghaghra, long swirling skirts and work in fields and other chores with their counterparts out in the stark, desolate landscape of their terrain. While wearing chunky silver jewellery, they cover their face with an 'odhni' (veil) which protects them from harsh sun and sand also some times saves themselves from the covetous eyes of men. Married, unmarried and widow women wear different dress with a one look one is able to know what is marital status of a women/ girl. Unmarried do not wear bangle in her full arms.
Men
The men are tall, dusky, twirled moustaches - sometimes having with a beard - with turbans.
The fairs and festivals also provide an opportunity to the villagers from remote regions to meet and mingle, livestocks deals to be stuck and enjoy music and cultural shows. The lifestyle is influenced by a celebration for every religious occasion and every change of season, while harvesting is no doubt the biggest one. These all are reflected in art and craft also.
Diversity
Thar has also a divergent colony of traditional tribes but sharing common characteristics - which seem to articulate their past together.
Despite diversity in costumes, jewllery and customs, a singularity also exits which keep tells the common past and urge to live together.
In case of Hindu communities marriages are arranged outside the community.
Weather conditions:
Pre-monsoon, which extends from April to June, is the hottest season, with temperature varying from 35°C to 45°C. Rampant winds from the west often results in dust storms, locally known as Andhis.
Visiting Thar in the summers means to experience the unbelievable transformation of the pristine sands, which are hot into chilled granules in the night.
Visiting Thar during the monsoon is better. The barren landscape portrays lush green scenery, which transforms into a bustling mart of the migratory birds; chirping, nestling.
Pottery, puppets, leather items, wood items, Carpets , Metal Wares, Block Prints, Tie and Dye Fabrics, Embroidered Shoes, Mirror Work on Clothes and Sheets, Painting, Kundan, Meenakari are a few arts and crafts of Thar
This handicraft heritage is a fine combination of colors and textures. The depth, range and inspirational intricacy of this heritage stems from its socio-economic ethos, with whole village pursuing certain crafts, which are intrinsic to their survival or daily needs.
Colours
Despite the perpetual desolation of the landscape enveloping the courtyards of desert, color reaches newer heights in this region.
Music
The hardship of daily life, the legends of heroism and romance are all captured in the music of this desert land which is vibrant and fine combination of tunes from various sources which comes from a tradition that is old and tranquil, and from a culture that has imbibed the best from its neighboring states of Sindh, Gujrat and Punjab. The music reflects both a spirit of identity and provides entertainment as relief from the daily grind of wrenching a living from the inhospitable land. The numerous songs sung by the women like Doro, Janiro, Raneleo, reflect the various feminine moods and strong family ties that regulate their lives. While illiterate people have memorized the couplets of Kabir Das and Meera ji and they quote these couplets while talking ordinary things.
There are many traditional communities who are professional performers and their skills are handed down from generation to generation.
Folk songs are commonly ballads, which relate heroic deeds or love stories. Simplicity, emotional expressions oneness and oddity are the hallmark of Thari music that is why it has won core importance in folk music which is often used as background music for TV dramas.
The beauty of Thar is that despite extreme aridity it does hold life. Travel to Thar is to see its rich and vibrant cultural heritage as well as an adventure to explore altogether a new world.
By Sohail Sangi
The nature and mind set of Thari people can be defined in one sentence. They are uncertain therefore whatever they see they want to make sure after touching that it is reality. This uncertainty is generated by the conditions in which they live in.
Visit to Sindh is incomplete without adventures in Thar Desert. This monsoon type desert surrounded by sand dunes is spread over 28,000 square kilometers, is a continuation of the Rajasthan arid zone.
This desert has folklores, a culture of its own, unique landscape, flora and fauna. It provides variety of opportunities to explore and an absorbing study of Sindhi culture.
The culture, the people, their way of life, and beauty of the surrounding desert landscape adds to the adventurous spirit.
TV plays - Akhri Geet of Asghar Nadeem Syed and Karwan of Abdul Qadir Junejo have been written in background of Thar which up to some extend depict the life style of Thar.
Thar is the land where folk tales and folk songs exist in their original form. It is land of shifting dunes but people have any how learnt to live life and adapt their style, which is very much typical and an example how to live life.
Life in Thar is full of action and thrill for visitors as they discover indigenous cultures, lifestyle and traditions. Sun- rising and sun-setting scenes viewed from atop of a due camel caravans, grazing herds, big and small sand dunes with thorny bushes, traditional dresses and jewellery of women, folk songs sung in wilderness are some more peculiarities of Thar.
Panhiari -Water girl of Thar in traditional clothes and bangles has been immortalized by the writers and media persons.
In fact Thar is a cultural island in the mid of Sindhi, Rajhastani and Gujrati ocean of culture. However, the Rajhastani culture predominate the other two cultures.
Red and dark colours are hallmark of Thar, through which they want to create colour in the dull desert scenario.
Thar is considered to be land of mighty River Sarswati which flowed through the region thousands of years ago but gone missing. So this is land of people whose river had gone missing.
In some mythologies, Thar has been symbolized as Maroothal - the harsh, hostile and merciless land but People have evolved and learnt the tricks of nature into their life so perfectly, that it has changed its course. Conservation, preservation and savings have become in-built of Thari people. They are more environment friendly and use natural resources with a notion of conservation.
No one is allowed to chop a tree or plant unnecessarily, while hunting and poarching of wildlife is socially banned, that is why one can see peacocks playing in the villages. TO collect wild tree fruits- Peeloo and Singri are favourite among the women in hot spell of May.
Tharis each day fight a battle for survival; against the creeping sands, shifting dunes, erratic weather, hot winds and droughts. In such conditions these simple but tough people have not only survived, but have created a culture that is vibrant, colourful and full of life, which stands in complete contrast to the land they live in.
So far livelihood is concerned; their entire dependence is on rains which fall in the monsoon. These sandy are, hot weather and dependence on monsoon rain have formed a typical patterns of relations (social and with nature both), consumption, culture, lifestyle, entertainment, and dress. This is also reflected individual's attitudes, values or worldview.
When it rains, water deposits in tobas (small ponds) which are used for drinking, washing and other purposes. This continues for three months after monsoon. Later Tharis have to depend on deep wells for fetching water.
The apparent poverty among the desert people had not weakened their bond of colorful, happy and proud community with their own way of gregariousness and jubilee.
Mostly people live in jhugis - huts a room formed with straws and thin wood-sticks). These jhugis are most vulnerable to the wind storm.
The living conditions and livelihood resources have necessitated tolive with inter-dependence and community social support system exits in Thar That is why it has by at large joint family system. Elders and women folks, particularly daughter are given more respect, which have become part of their traditions.
Women
Thari women wear Ghaghra, long swirling skirts and work in fields and other chores with their counterparts out in the stark, desolate landscape of their terrain. While wearing chunky silver jewellery, they cover their face with an 'odhni' (veil) which protects them from harsh sun and sand also some times saves themselves from the covetous eyes of men. Married, unmarried and widow women wear different dress with a one look one is able to know what is marital status of a women/ girl. Unmarried do not wear bangle in her full arms.
Men
The men are tall, dusky, twirled moustaches - sometimes having with a beard - with turbans.
The fairs and festivals also provide an opportunity to the villagers from remote regions to meet and mingle, livestocks deals to be stuck and enjoy music and cultural shows. The lifestyle is influenced by a celebration for every religious occasion and every change of season, while harvesting is no doubt the biggest one. These all are reflected in art and craft also.
Diversity
Thar has also a divergent colony of traditional tribes but sharing common characteristics - which seem to articulate their past together.
Despite diversity in costumes, jewllery and customs, a singularity also exits which keep tells the common past and urge to live together.
In case of Hindu communities marriages are arranged outside the community.
Weather conditions:
Pre-monsoon, which extends from April to June, is the hottest season, with temperature varying from 35°C to 45°C. Rampant winds from the west often results in dust storms, locally known as Andhis.
Visiting Thar in the summers means to experience the unbelievable transformation of the pristine sands, which are hot into chilled granules in the night.
Visiting Thar during the monsoon is better. The barren landscape portrays lush green scenery, which transforms into a bustling mart of the migratory birds; chirping, nestling.
Pottery, puppets, leather items, wood items, Carpets , Metal Wares, Block Prints, Tie and Dye Fabrics, Embroidered Shoes, Mirror Work on Clothes and Sheets, Painting, Kundan, Meenakari are a few arts and crafts of Thar
This handicraft heritage is a fine combination of colors and textures. The depth, range and inspirational intricacy of this heritage stems from its socio-economic ethos, with whole village pursuing certain crafts, which are intrinsic to their survival or daily needs.
Colours
Despite the perpetual desolation of the landscape enveloping the courtyards of desert, color reaches newer heights in this region.
Music
The hardship of daily life, the legends of heroism and romance are all captured in the music of this desert land which is vibrant and fine combination of tunes from various sources which comes from a tradition that is old and tranquil, and from a culture that has imbibed the best from its neighboring states of Sindh, Gujrat and Punjab. The music reflects both a spirit of identity and provides entertainment as relief from the daily grind of wrenching a living from the inhospitable land. The numerous songs sung by the women like Doro, Janiro, Raneleo, reflect the various feminine moods and strong family ties that regulate their lives. While illiterate people have memorized the couplets of Kabir Das and Meera ji and they quote these couplets while talking ordinary things.
There are many traditional communities who are professional performers and their skills are handed down from generation to generation.
Folk songs are commonly ballads, which relate heroic deeds or love stories. Simplicity, emotional expressions oneness and oddity are the hallmark of Thari music that is why it has won core importance in folk music which is often used as background music for TV dramas.
The beauty of Thar is that despite extreme aridity it does hold life. Travel to Thar is to see its rich and vibrant cultural heritage as well as an adventure to explore altogether a new world.
Saturday, February 9, 2008
Sindhi Press
Retired generals’ love for democracy
Kawish
Retired army generals at a meeting while terming rule of President Musharraf as threat to the solidarity of the country, have urged him to step down and hand over power to Justice Iftikhar Mohammad Chaudhry.
All of sudden love for democracy has sparked among the generals, but that too after their retirement. Otherwise as chief of army or while holding high offices in army, they did not hesitate from imposing martial law, suspending the constitution and over throwing democratic governments. After they left army office, all of sudden they became democrats. This time former chiefs and high army officers had said such things, which only some democrat, sensible and saner person can say. Alas they waited for their retirement.
Rtd Gen Faiz Ali Chishti now worried about democracy, had remained right hand of Gen Zia when he overthrew elected government of Z A Bhutto. This association of retired generals is headed by him, who shared power during Zia regime, which subjected to torture the democratic people and supporting all the anti people and democracy step of Zia. Will Gen Chishti offer any explanation or apology for opening firing on processions of MRD and other excesses?
Rtd Gen Abdul Majeed Malik is also among the retired soldiers now demanding democracy. Would he like to clarify his role in the imposition of first martial in the country? He was holding rank of major in the army in 1956, and prepared a draft which Ayub Khan got signed from Iskandar Mirza and over threw the civilian government.
Former army chief Gen Aslam Beg is also there, who did not allow the Benazir government to run smoothly, while his reported involvement in Mehran Bank scandal remained mystery. During his tenure as army chief, Gen Asad Durani as head of an important organization spent millions of rupees to weaken democratic government.
Rtd general Hameed Gul is also among the soldiers turned democrats, who make dangerous investment in Afghanistan, which Pakistan was reaping till today.
The love of these retired soldiers for democracy can be appreciated but it seems strange as to why this love could not be seen when they were serving in the army, though got encountered a number of occasions to show this love. - (Feb 2)
What hell caretakers to do with Klabagh Dam issue?
Awami Awaz
The caretaker federal cabinet at its meeting has termed Kalabagh Dam inevitable to over come water and power shortage and announced to build public opinion to win support. The meeting also decided to call a conference of the provinces in the second week of the Feb, where in experts of Kalabagh dam would also be invited to find out the reason about the opposition of this dam, while political reservation to be removed by the next government.
The federal minister for provincial coordination admitted that holding of elections was the mandate of the caretaker government; however he said issues of national importance could not be ignored.
Taking up the controversial issue of KB dam by the care takers has generated much surprise and anger, as it was unnecessarily poking its nose in the sensitive and controversial issue, which tantamount to intervention. Better, for caretakers to perform their duty as envisaged in the constitution i.e. holding of polls and transform power to the elected representatives.
It is pertinent to note that the caretaker government was not performing its prime duty of holding polls properly. Political parties, candidates and voters have many a complaints which the government had failed to redress. When it was not performing its first and foremost duty how it can take in hand an extra ordinary issue, which was beyond it mandate and capacity.
It is believed that KB dam is being used as a card. Whenever the government comes under pressure it raises the bogey KB dam. This time too, this issue has been raised to divert the attention of people from prevailing political situation, but this is a very weak idea, as political matters can only be dealt politically. And national interests should not be bargained for the petty and personal interests. Every body knows that this issue had generated much controversy between Punjab and smaller provinces, but rulers have been taking benefit from this controversy and tension.
The caretakers should remain within their prescribed mandate and desist from such controversial issue and serve their all energy on holding of free and fair elections.– (Jan 30)
Selected and translated by Sohail Sangi
Sindhi Press 20
Are people really responsible for flour crisis?
Kawish
The high level meeting presided over by the caretaker prime minister failed to resolve the crisis of wheat flour, and take action against the culprits, rather it held the people responsible for it. Federal minister for food Prince Essa Khan while briefing the journalists said that entire nation was responsible for the flour crisis. He said that the situation deteriorated after Dec 27, when godown were looted in Sindh, transport problem cropped in other province and due to power crisis grinding was stop.
There are reports that a list of hoarders and black marketers was furnished at the meeting but one minister opposed action against those them.
The flour crisis is deepening but steps of the government are furthering the crisis. Irsa while rejecting the objections of Sindh and Punjab released 18000 cusecs water from Tarbela and Mangla for power generation. There are always some influentials behind the continuity of crisis it might be sugar crisis or wheat, stock exchange or oil, they have sources in power corridor. When NAB tried to probe the sugar crisis the bureau itself was made accountable, hence it left this probe halfway. An analysis reveals that crises are patronised under government umbrella. It appears that that the government was not ready to take serious effort to resolve wheat flour crisis, as instead of exposing the culprits the government was protecting them. The government did not take action against those 50 hoarders whose names were furnished at the meeting.
It is strange that despite bumper crop the country is facing worst crisis. The excuse that the crisis brewed after Dec 27 is not true, because people were compelled to pay excess on the flour price since last two months. There is no hope that the government would take any effective measure to resolve this crisis. It would be proper that an inquiry by a judge of Supreme Court be held to find out reasons and pin point culprits responsible for this crisis. – (Jan 12)
Doubts about postponement of polls
Tameer Sindh
A volley of doubts exists regarding postponement of elections. It is argued that situation is not conducive for holding polls. Apparently, the government stricts to the commitment of holding polls on Feb 18, but some circles within the government view that if bomb blasts continued, polls would not be held. Some other circles apprehend certain steps of the government which were annoying and creating problems for the opposition in the country.
The PPP the biggest political party contesting elections has reportedly provided a number of proofs regarding pre poll rigging. PPP leaders also complained that over half a million party leaders and activists have been booked in the cases of rioting which erupted after assassination of party chairperson Ms Bhutto. The reports suggest that majority of the cases were registered on political basis and interestingly, beggars, teachers, police officials and in some cases people who had died some time back were also -cited as accused. Over two dozen journalists in different districts were also implicated in these cases.
These political rivals were booked for terrorist acts without scrutiny which appears to be a part of victimisation.
The elections were held in the countries having a situation worse than Pakistan. Former minister for interior affairs Moin Haider rightly pointed out that, if during war in Afghanistan and Iraq or a situation after revolution in Iran the polls were held, then why not in Pakistan.
The rulers want that PPP may not get sympathy vote of assassination of Ms Bhutto. Strange enough, they forget that after hanging of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, elections were held many years late, but people did not forget the martyrdom of Bhutto. Memory of the people is not as short as of rulers. Therefore, as long as the polls would be delayed, PPP would get more sympathies of people. It is imperative that the government should hold election, that too in free, fair and transparent manner. - (Jan 12)
Selected and translated by Sohail Sangi
Sindhi Press 19
Linguistic bias not acceptable
Ibrat
The riots erupted after assassination of Ms Bhutto; the president has held responsible some linguistic and political groups for vandal incidents. By the linguistic group it might be people of Sindh, who were protesting on the murder of their beloved leader, while reference to political group seems to be of PPP. It is true that people of Sindh protested and took to streets but some miscreants took advantage of the situation and resorted to looting and burning of private and public properties. How the president construed that this all was linguistic based and the entire Sindh was involved in vandalism. But now the entire Sindh is being punished as thousands of people have been booked under Anti terrorism act.
These words do not suit to president of the country, who is holding a responsible office. It is the language which PML-Q is speaking…..The protest and incidents of damaging properties also took place in Lahore and Rawalpindi but the cases were registered in Sindh only. All people living in the federation of Pakistan belong to one or the other nationality, which does not mean that they do not want to live in the federation. For that matter the rulers also belong to some linguistic group.
People of Sindh are not responsible for the riots; while law and order collapsed some third party took the benefit of the situation. The history of this country is witness to it that the elites of ruling class were responsible for creating linguistic prejudices /biases as they deprived the smaller nations of their rights and created national question.
It would be advisable, at this juncture such prejudiced and injuring statements should have been avoided and the utterances of rulers should not contain such things which reflect their stereo type attitude towards certain linguistic group of people. (Jan 5)
Awami Awaz
Benazir Murder should not go un-investigated
The President has sought help of Scotland Yard experts to investigate into tragic murder of Ms Benazir Bhutto. PPP thinks that if the October 18 incident had been investigated by foreign experts, Liaquat Bagh incident would have not happened. The gruesome murder of former prime minister is becoming complicated and controversial. The government claim it was carried out by Baitullah Mehsud, while PPP holds some one else responsible for it.
It is regrettable that like other political murder, the evidences have been washed out in this case also. Just after the incident all the evidences at the place of incidents were removed in the name of cleanliness.
Scotland Yard team when investigated Mir Murtaza Bhutto case, it was not allowed free hand and hurdles were created in its working, as a result of which it left the probe half way. This team has got a past experience which is multiplied by the destroying the evidence from spot what remains primary data for the team.
The team would be probing the case on the request of a government, for which the affected party- PPP has no confidence.
It is really deplorable that under present government no probe would be credible. The government had already named some culprits, and have been changing its version hence it has become party and how it would possible for her to withdraw from its previous position as it would affect its reputation. Some circles hold the government responsible for it and rule out the possibility of any impartial inquiry in the presence of present rulers.
It appears that despite strong will of the people an impartial and credible probe seems to be impossible, as we have witnessed the case of Liaquat Ali Khan and Mir Murtaza Bhutto. However this should not be repeated and this murder should not remain mystery. - (Jan 4)
Selected and translated by Sohail Sangi
Sindhi press 17
Reasons behind railway accidents
Ibrat
The railway accidents taking place after every two or three months expose the claims of ministry of Pakistan Railways about its performance and modernising this system. Earlier we have a fewer accidents. The railway ministry has launched a number of trains on the main track which is about century old. Just increasing number of trains can not be termed modernisation. If responsible railway officials have a chance to travel through these trains, they would be able to have first hand information about the facilities really availed by the common man. Passengers are loaded like animals in these trains. The infra structure is also dilapidated. After Britain we have made no investment on infra structure, but added some bogies and trains. Hence the track which was laid about one century back was on last legs.
In past trains were supposed to be safer, cheaper and comfortable means of travelling as compared to the road transport. But now these facilities are no more characteristics of the railways. We have frequent, more and dangerous railway accidents
There might be different reasons for this growing number of accidents, but negligence of the railway ministry and weaker infra structure would be the common factor of the accidents. We have still very old kerosene oil lighting system at railway stations. The changes which are claimed are cosmetic.
It is regrettable that the railway authorities did not release the lists of deceased of Karachi Express which met an unfortunate accident last week near Naushero Feroze as yet.
It is believed that the failure of railway system is an engineered one and a preparation for its privatisation. After continuous negligence the government will have strong excuse to sell out this national asset on throw away price. – (Dec 20)
A cruel joke with unemployed youth
Koshish
A cruel joke is played with unemployed youth of Sindh. PML-Q and its allies at the end of their tenure issued thousands of offers letters of primary teachers. Most of these letters were given through the PML-Q candidates to win the elections. When these youths reported at concerned officers for joining, they were refused on one or the other pretext. Now it is learnt that secretary education has verbally instructed the EDOs education not to give them joining as these orders were issued without fulfilling the requirements.
PML government had earlier also played such cruel joke. A number of youths was issued teachers appointment letter, but later, due to dispute raised over quota among the ruling partners these appointments were cancelled. So the PML-Q tenure ended but youth of Sindh did not get the job.
Sindh has a higher ratio of unemployment as compared with the other provinces. The main reason behind it is that Sindh did not have representative government since a long time. The other reason is that there was inflow and pressure of people of other provinces, who try to find job and livelihood resources in Sindh.
Karachi having a large number of jobs in private sector, but here hardly 20 per cent people from Sindh are employed. It is accepted rule that people of the area have got first right over the resources. But in Sindh we have quite different situation. People of Sindh are not getting their due share in the federal jobs also.
It is irony that thousands of youths were cheated by issuing fake orders. We would demand a thorough probe in to the issue and expose those people involved in the scandal. – (Dec 20)
Selected and translated by by Sohail Sangi
Retired generals’ love for democracy
Kawish
Retired army generals at a meeting while terming rule of President Musharraf as threat to the solidarity of the country, have urged him to step down and hand over power to Justice Iftikhar Mohammad Chaudhry.
All of sudden love for democracy has sparked among the generals, but that too after their retirement. Otherwise as chief of army or while holding high offices in army, they did not hesitate from imposing martial law, suspending the constitution and over throwing democratic governments. After they left army office, all of sudden they became democrats. This time former chiefs and high army officers had said such things, which only some democrat, sensible and saner person can say. Alas they waited for their retirement.
Rtd Gen Faiz Ali Chishti now worried about democracy, had remained right hand of Gen Zia when he overthrew elected government of Z A Bhutto. This association of retired generals is headed by him, who shared power during Zia regime, which subjected to torture the democratic people and supporting all the anti people and democracy step of Zia. Will Gen Chishti offer any explanation or apology for opening firing on processions of MRD and other excesses?
Rtd Gen Abdul Majeed Malik is also among the retired soldiers now demanding democracy. Would he like to clarify his role in the imposition of first martial in the country? He was holding rank of major in the army in 1956, and prepared a draft which Ayub Khan got signed from Iskandar Mirza and over threw the civilian government.
Former army chief Gen Aslam Beg is also there, who did not allow the Benazir government to run smoothly, while his reported involvement in Mehran Bank scandal remained mystery. During his tenure as army chief, Gen Asad Durani as head of an important organization spent millions of rupees to weaken democratic government.
Rtd general Hameed Gul is also among the soldiers turned democrats, who make dangerous investment in Afghanistan, which Pakistan was reaping till today.
The love of these retired soldiers for democracy can be appreciated but it seems strange as to why this love could not be seen when they were serving in the army, though got encountered a number of occasions to show this love. - (Feb 2)
What hell caretakers to do with Klabagh Dam issue?
Awami Awaz
The caretaker federal cabinet at its meeting has termed Kalabagh Dam inevitable to over come water and power shortage and announced to build public opinion to win support. The meeting also decided to call a conference of the provinces in the second week of the Feb, where in experts of Kalabagh dam would also be invited to find out the reason about the opposition of this dam, while political reservation to be removed by the next government.
The federal minister for provincial coordination admitted that holding of elections was the mandate of the caretaker government; however he said issues of national importance could not be ignored.
Taking up the controversial issue of KB dam by the care takers has generated much surprise and anger, as it was unnecessarily poking its nose in the sensitive and controversial issue, which tantamount to intervention. Better, for caretakers to perform their duty as envisaged in the constitution i.e. holding of polls and transform power to the elected representatives.
It is pertinent to note that the caretaker government was not performing its prime duty of holding polls properly. Political parties, candidates and voters have many a complaints which the government had failed to redress. When it was not performing its first and foremost duty how it can take in hand an extra ordinary issue, which was beyond it mandate and capacity.
It is believed that KB dam is being used as a card. Whenever the government comes under pressure it raises the bogey KB dam. This time too, this issue has been raised to divert the attention of people from prevailing political situation, but this is a very weak idea, as political matters can only be dealt politically. And national interests should not be bargained for the petty and personal interests. Every body knows that this issue had generated much controversy between Punjab and smaller provinces, but rulers have been taking benefit from this controversy and tension.
The caretakers should remain within their prescribed mandate and desist from such controversial issue and serve their all energy on holding of free and fair elections.– (Jan 30)
Selected and translated by Sohail Sangi
Sindhi Press 20
Are people really responsible for flour crisis?
Kawish
The high level meeting presided over by the caretaker prime minister failed to resolve the crisis of wheat flour, and take action against the culprits, rather it held the people responsible for it. Federal minister for food Prince Essa Khan while briefing the journalists said that entire nation was responsible for the flour crisis. He said that the situation deteriorated after Dec 27, when godown were looted in Sindh, transport problem cropped in other province and due to power crisis grinding was stop.
There are reports that a list of hoarders and black marketers was furnished at the meeting but one minister opposed action against those them.
The flour crisis is deepening but steps of the government are furthering the crisis. Irsa while rejecting the objections of Sindh and Punjab released 18000 cusecs water from Tarbela and Mangla for power generation. There are always some influentials behind the continuity of crisis it might be sugar crisis or wheat, stock exchange or oil, they have sources in power corridor. When NAB tried to probe the sugar crisis the bureau itself was made accountable, hence it left this probe halfway. An analysis reveals that crises are patronised under government umbrella. It appears that that the government was not ready to take serious effort to resolve wheat flour crisis, as instead of exposing the culprits the government was protecting them. The government did not take action against those 50 hoarders whose names were furnished at the meeting.
It is strange that despite bumper crop the country is facing worst crisis. The excuse that the crisis brewed after Dec 27 is not true, because people were compelled to pay excess on the flour price since last two months. There is no hope that the government would take any effective measure to resolve this crisis. It would be proper that an inquiry by a judge of Supreme Court be held to find out reasons and pin point culprits responsible for this crisis. – (Jan 12)
Doubts about postponement of polls
Tameer Sindh
A volley of doubts exists regarding postponement of elections. It is argued that situation is not conducive for holding polls. Apparently, the government stricts to the commitment of holding polls on Feb 18, but some circles within the government view that if bomb blasts continued, polls would not be held. Some other circles apprehend certain steps of the government which were annoying and creating problems for the opposition in the country.
The PPP the biggest political party contesting elections has reportedly provided a number of proofs regarding pre poll rigging. PPP leaders also complained that over half a million party leaders and activists have been booked in the cases of rioting which erupted after assassination of party chairperson Ms Bhutto. The reports suggest that majority of the cases were registered on political basis and interestingly, beggars, teachers, police officials and in some cases people who had died some time back were also -cited as accused. Over two dozen journalists in different districts were also implicated in these cases.
These political rivals were booked for terrorist acts without scrutiny which appears to be a part of victimisation.
The elections were held in the countries having a situation worse than Pakistan. Former minister for interior affairs Moin Haider rightly pointed out that, if during war in Afghanistan and Iraq or a situation after revolution in Iran the polls were held, then why not in Pakistan.
The rulers want that PPP may not get sympathy vote of assassination of Ms Bhutto. Strange enough, they forget that after hanging of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, elections were held many years late, but people did not forget the martyrdom of Bhutto. Memory of the people is not as short as of rulers. Therefore, as long as the polls would be delayed, PPP would get more sympathies of people. It is imperative that the government should hold election, that too in free, fair and transparent manner. - (Jan 12)
Selected and translated by Sohail Sangi
Sindhi Press 19
Linguistic bias not acceptable
Ibrat
The riots erupted after assassination of Ms Bhutto; the president has held responsible some linguistic and political groups for vandal incidents. By the linguistic group it might be people of Sindh, who were protesting on the murder of their beloved leader, while reference to political group seems to be of PPP. It is true that people of Sindh protested and took to streets but some miscreants took advantage of the situation and resorted to looting and burning of private and public properties. How the president construed that this all was linguistic based and the entire Sindh was involved in vandalism. But now the entire Sindh is being punished as thousands of people have been booked under Anti terrorism act.
These words do not suit to president of the country, who is holding a responsible office. It is the language which PML-Q is speaking…..The protest and incidents of damaging properties also took place in Lahore and Rawalpindi but the cases were registered in Sindh only. All people living in the federation of Pakistan belong to one or the other nationality, which does not mean that they do not want to live in the federation. For that matter the rulers also belong to some linguistic group.
People of Sindh are not responsible for the riots; while law and order collapsed some third party took the benefit of the situation. The history of this country is witness to it that the elites of ruling class were responsible for creating linguistic prejudices /biases as they deprived the smaller nations of their rights and created national question.
It would be advisable, at this juncture such prejudiced and injuring statements should have been avoided and the utterances of rulers should not contain such things which reflect their stereo type attitude towards certain linguistic group of people. (Jan 5)
Awami Awaz
Benazir Murder should not go un-investigated
The President has sought help of Scotland Yard experts to investigate into tragic murder of Ms Benazir Bhutto. PPP thinks that if the October 18 incident had been investigated by foreign experts, Liaquat Bagh incident would have not happened. The gruesome murder of former prime minister is becoming complicated and controversial. The government claim it was carried out by Baitullah Mehsud, while PPP holds some one else responsible for it.
It is regrettable that like other political murder, the evidences have been washed out in this case also. Just after the incident all the evidences at the place of incidents were removed in the name of cleanliness.
Scotland Yard team when investigated Mir Murtaza Bhutto case, it was not allowed free hand and hurdles were created in its working, as a result of which it left the probe half way. This team has got a past experience which is multiplied by the destroying the evidence from spot what remains primary data for the team.
The team would be probing the case on the request of a government, for which the affected party- PPP has no confidence.
It is really deplorable that under present government no probe would be credible. The government had already named some culprits, and have been changing its version hence it has become party and how it would possible for her to withdraw from its previous position as it would affect its reputation. Some circles hold the government responsible for it and rule out the possibility of any impartial inquiry in the presence of present rulers.
It appears that despite strong will of the people an impartial and credible probe seems to be impossible, as we have witnessed the case of Liaquat Ali Khan and Mir Murtaza Bhutto. However this should not be repeated and this murder should not remain mystery. - (Jan 4)
Selected and translated by Sohail Sangi
Sindhi press 17
Reasons behind railway accidents
Ibrat
The railway accidents taking place after every two or three months expose the claims of ministry of Pakistan Railways about its performance and modernising this system. Earlier we have a fewer accidents. The railway ministry has launched a number of trains on the main track which is about century old. Just increasing number of trains can not be termed modernisation. If responsible railway officials have a chance to travel through these trains, they would be able to have first hand information about the facilities really availed by the common man. Passengers are loaded like animals in these trains. The infra structure is also dilapidated. After Britain we have made no investment on infra structure, but added some bogies and trains. Hence the track which was laid about one century back was on last legs.
In past trains were supposed to be safer, cheaper and comfortable means of travelling as compared to the road transport. But now these facilities are no more characteristics of the railways. We have frequent, more and dangerous railway accidents
There might be different reasons for this growing number of accidents, but negligence of the railway ministry and weaker infra structure would be the common factor of the accidents. We have still very old kerosene oil lighting system at railway stations. The changes which are claimed are cosmetic.
It is regrettable that the railway authorities did not release the lists of deceased of Karachi Express which met an unfortunate accident last week near Naushero Feroze as yet.
It is believed that the failure of railway system is an engineered one and a preparation for its privatisation. After continuous negligence the government will have strong excuse to sell out this national asset on throw away price. – (Dec 20)
A cruel joke with unemployed youth
Koshish
A cruel joke is played with unemployed youth of Sindh. PML-Q and its allies at the end of their tenure issued thousands of offers letters of primary teachers. Most of these letters were given through the PML-Q candidates to win the elections. When these youths reported at concerned officers for joining, they were refused on one or the other pretext. Now it is learnt that secretary education has verbally instructed the EDOs education not to give them joining as these orders were issued without fulfilling the requirements.
PML government had earlier also played such cruel joke. A number of youths was issued teachers appointment letter, but later, due to dispute raised over quota among the ruling partners these appointments were cancelled. So the PML-Q tenure ended but youth of Sindh did not get the job.
Sindh has a higher ratio of unemployment as compared with the other provinces. The main reason behind it is that Sindh did not have representative government since a long time. The other reason is that there was inflow and pressure of people of other provinces, who try to find job and livelihood resources in Sindh.
Karachi having a large number of jobs in private sector, but here hardly 20 per cent people from Sindh are employed. It is accepted rule that people of the area have got first right over the resources. But in Sindh we have quite different situation. People of Sindh are not getting their due share in the federal jobs also.
It is irony that thousands of youths were cheated by issuing fake orders. We would demand a thorough probe in to the issue and expose those people involved in the scandal. – (Dec 20)
Selected and translated by by Sohail Sangi
Sindhi press 17
Reasons behind railway accidents
Ibrat
The railway accidents taking place after every two or three months expose the claims of ministry of Pakistan Railways about its performance and modernising this system. Earlier we have a fewer accidents. The railway ministry has launched a number of trains on the main track which is about century old. Just increasing number of trains can not be termed modernisation. If responsible railway officials have a chance to travel through these trains, they would be able to have first hand information about the facilities really availed by the common man. Passengers are loaded like animals in these trains. The infra structure is also dilapidated. After Britain we have made no investment on infra structure, but added some bogies and trains. Hence the track which was laid about one century back was on last legs.
In past trains were supposed to be safer, cheaper and comfortable means of travelling as compared to the road transport. But now these facilities are no more characteristics of the railways. We have frequent, more and dangerous railway accidents
There might be different reasons for this growing number of accidents, but negligence of the railway ministry and weaker infra structure would be the common factor of the accidents. We have still very old kerosene oil lighting system at railway stations. The changes which are claimed are cosmetic.
It is regrettable that the railway authorities did not release the lists of deceased of Karachi Express which met an unfortunate accident last week near Naushero Feroze as yet.
It is believed that the failure of railway system is an engineered one and a preparation for its privatisation. After continuous negligence the government will have strong excuse to sell out this national asset on throw away price. – (Dec 20)
A cruel joke with unemployed youth
Koshish
A cruel joke is played with unemployed youth of Sindh. PML-Q and its allies at the end of their tenure issued thousands of offers letters of primary teachers. Most of these letters were given through the PML-Q candidates to win the elections. When these youths reported at concerned officers for joining, they were refused on one or the other pretext. Now it is learnt that secretary education has verbally instructed the EDOs education not to give them joining as these orders were issued without fulfilling the requirements.
PML government had earlier also played such cruel joke. A number of youths was issued teachers appointment letter, but later, due to dispute raised over quota among the ruling partners these appointments were cancelled. So the PML-Q tenure ended but youth of Sindh did not get the job.
Sindh has a higher ratio of unemployment as compared with the other provinces. The main reason behind it is that Sindh did not have representative government since a long time. The other reason is that there was inflow and pressure of people of other provinces, who try to find job and livelihood resources in Sindh.
Karachi having a large number of jobs in private sector, but here hardly 20 per cent people from Sindh are employed. It is accepted rule that people of the area have got first right over the resources. But in Sindh we have quite different situation. People of Sindh are not getting their due share in the federal jobs also.
It is irony that thousands of youths were cheated by issuing fake orders. We would demand a thorough probe in to the issue and expose those people involved in the scandal. – (Dec 20)
Selected and translated by by Sohail Sangi
Reasons behind railway accidents
Ibrat
The railway accidents taking place after every two or three months expose the claims of ministry of Pakistan Railways about its performance and modernising this system. Earlier we have a fewer accidents. The railway ministry has launched a number of trains on the main track which is about century old. Just increasing number of trains can not be termed modernisation. If responsible railway officials have a chance to travel through these trains, they would be able to have first hand information about the facilities really availed by the common man. Passengers are loaded like animals in these trains. The infra structure is also dilapidated. After Britain we have made no investment on infra structure, but added some bogies and trains. Hence the track which was laid about one century back was on last legs.
In past trains were supposed to be safer, cheaper and comfortable means of travelling as compared to the road transport. But now these facilities are no more characteristics of the railways. We have frequent, more and dangerous railway accidents
There might be different reasons for this growing number of accidents, but negligence of the railway ministry and weaker infra structure would be the common factor of the accidents. We have still very old kerosene oil lighting system at railway stations. The changes which are claimed are cosmetic.
It is regrettable that the railway authorities did not release the lists of deceased of Karachi Express which met an unfortunate accident last week near Naushero Feroze as yet.
It is believed that the failure of railway system is an engineered one and a preparation for its privatisation. After continuous negligence the government will have strong excuse to sell out this national asset on throw away price. – (Dec 20)
A cruel joke with unemployed youth
Koshish
A cruel joke is played with unemployed youth of Sindh. PML-Q and its allies at the end of their tenure issued thousands of offers letters of primary teachers. Most of these letters were given through the PML-Q candidates to win the elections. When these youths reported at concerned officers for joining, they were refused on one or the other pretext. Now it is learnt that secretary education has verbally instructed the EDOs education not to give them joining as these orders were issued without fulfilling the requirements.
PML government had earlier also played such cruel joke. A number of youths was issued teachers appointment letter, but later, due to dispute raised over quota among the ruling partners these appointments were cancelled. So the PML-Q tenure ended but youth of Sindh did not get the job.
Sindh has a higher ratio of unemployment as compared with the other provinces. The main reason behind it is that Sindh did not have representative government since a long time. The other reason is that there was inflow and pressure of people of other provinces, who try to find job and livelihood resources in Sindh.
Karachi having a large number of jobs in private sector, but here hardly 20 per cent people from Sindh are employed. It is accepted rule that people of the area have got first right over the resources. But in Sindh we have quite different situation. People of Sindh are not getting their due share in the federal jobs also.
It is irony that thousands of youths were cheated by issuing fake orders. We would demand a thorough probe in to the issue and expose those people involved in the scandal. – (Dec 20)
Selected and translated by by Sohail Sangi
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