‘State within a state’ established in Karachi under cover of Sindhi Culture Day: Farooq Sattar

KARACHI: Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) Pakistan leader Farooq Sattar has alleged that a “state within a state” was set up on Karachi’s roads and various locations in the name of celebrating Sindhi Culture Day.

Addressing a press conference in Karachi alongside Sindh Assembly Opposition Leader Ali Khursheedi and other party leaders, Sattar said public and private property was damaged, anti-state slogans were raised, and firearms were openly displayed.

He said that on December 7, state laws were openly violated under the banner of Sindhi Culture Day, adding that it was effectively proven that a “Sindhu Desh” was declared on that day.

Several people were injured, and there was an exchange of fire with the police, which he termed a “horrifying and dangerous episode.”

Sattar said that mainstream media had recorded everything, and the registered case included charges of terrorism, attempted murder and other offences.

“At that time, no one could pass through the area. Do we only call it terrorism after major casualties? Was the damage caused not an act of terrorism?” he asked.

He said that when police tried to intervene, they were also attacked. “Most of the arrested individuals were released. When the suspects were produced in court, the court practically defended them — they did not even need a lawyer. After the medical reports of those assaulted, the incident should have been declared terrorism.”

Sattar said that the MQM-P had no issue with the peaceful Sindhi men, women and youth participating in the rally, but claimed that Karachi’s peace was deliberately disrupted.

“A conspiracy is once again under way to pit brother against brother. We were waiting to see how the Sindh government would respond.”

He further alleged that a group of lawyers belonging to a certain ethnic group was attempting to forcibly occupy land in the city. He said the high court should take notice of the behaviour of the subordinate judiciary.

Sattar said that PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and President Asif Ali Zardari must also speak up.

“What happened to the governor today can happen to the chief minister tomorrow. This is not a 200-episode drama. If the government does not firmly take notice and stand with the governor, then it must be understood that the seed sown 17 years ago has grown into a full tree.”