Thousands of women activists from Sindhiani Tehreek, intellectuals, civil society members, and citizens participated in a massive protest in Karachi, led by Sindhiani Tehreek and Awami Tehreek. The demonstration, titled the "Save Earth and River March," was held to oppose controversial federal projects threatening Sindh’s natural resources and autonomy.
The protest began at Regal Chowk and culminated at the Karachi Press Club. It highlighted several critical issues, including the construction of six new canals on the Indus River, corporate farming under the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), amendments to the IRSA Act, and the rising extremism and violence against women in Sindh.
The diverse crowd, including women, children, writers, lawyers, and civil society representatives, raised slogans such as: “Sindh Will Become a Desert—How Will Pakistan Survive?”
Protesters strongly condemned the construction of six new canals under the Green Pakistan project, which they said would irrigate millions of acres in Cholistan at the expense of Sindh’s water supply. They also opposed amendments to the IRSA Act, calling them unconstitutional and a violation of provincial rights under Articles 154 and 155 of the Constitution.
Activists criticized the allocation of 52,000 acres of Sindh’s fertile land to the military-affiliated Green Corporate Initiative. They demanded that the land be returned to local farmers rather than sold to corporations. Additionally, they called for compensation for displaced communities in Thatta, Sajawal, and Badin districts, who are suffering from reduced water flow downstream of Kotri. Protesters urged immediate measures to release water into the Arabian Sea to prevent further land degradation.
The growing violence against women in Sindh, including harassment, forced marriages, and honor killings, was also a key concern. Protesters demanded the activation of Women Protection Cells and stronger enforcement of relevant laws to safeguard women’s rights.
Leaders also urged action against extremist groups and bandit networks in northern Sindh, alleging government and police complicity. They called for an investigation into the smuggling of NATO-grade weapons to criminals operating in the region.
Activists decried the destruction of Sindh’s historical sites and demanded urgent steps to protect the region’s cultural heritage. They also rejected the 2023 census, alleging that Sindh’s population was deliberately undercounted, and demanded action against illegal immigrants and corrupt officials in NADRA.
Protesters voiced their opposition to a recent amendment granting SIFC authority over Sindh’s land, water, and mineral resources, demanding its repeal.
Speeches and Statements
Advocate Vasand Thari, Central President of Awami Tehreek, criticized the government for exploiting Sindh’s resources and warned of a potential crisis akin to the events of 1971. He stated: “The Indus River is not just a water source; it is the lifeline of Sindh’s people and heritage. Any attempt to dam or divert it will be met with resistance.”
Umra Samo, Central President of Sindhiani Tehreek, highlighted the struggles of women and emphasized the importance of protecting Sindh’s resources. She said: “The land of Sindh belongs to its people. No government has the right to sell it for corporate gain. Our struggle for the Indus River and Sindh’s rights will continue peacefully and democratically.”
Other prominent speakers, including Noor Ahmed Katiar (Senior Vice President, Awami Tehreek), Sajid Hussain Mahesar (General Secretary, Awami Tehreek), Marvi Sindhu (General Secretary, Sindhiani Tehreek), Ghulam Mustafa Chandio (President, Sindhi Hari Tehreek), Naveed Abbas Kalhoro (President, Sindhi Shagird Tehreek), Shohab Osto, Sheema Kermani (Renowned Artist), Aysha Dharejo, and Aamir Nawaz Waraich (President, Karachi Bar Association), criticized the federal decisions they claimed undermine the rights of smaller provinces and harm the unity of the federation. They denounced the ruling coalition of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), and Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), calling it the "worst martial law" disguised as democracy.
Demands for Investigation and Accountability
Protesters demanded independent investigations into 150 years of resource misappropriation in Sindh and pledged to continue their struggle against anti-people policies. They called on both national and international human rights organizations to support their cause and help protect Sindh’s autonomy, culture, and natural resources.
The march concluded with cultural performances, symbolizing the protesters’ renewed commitment to defend Sindh’s rights and ensuring its legacy and future remain intact.