Sindh’s Interior Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjhar has offered protesters an alternative location to hold their demonstrations, stating that this is not an ultimatum, but rather a proposal.
Addressing a press conference in Karachi, Lanjhar emphasized that clear instructions had been given to the Inspector General of Police and other law enforcement agencies to ensure that the city’s roads are not held hostage. He confirmed that police, Rangers, and other security forces would take necessary actions to maintain law and order.
Lanjhar expressed concerns over the unknown forces attempting to disrupt Karachi’s peace, adding that while the government sought a peaceful resolution, action would be taken if talks failed. He called for positive media support in the process.
He reiterated, “I offer the protesters a separate location; this is not an ultimatum but a proposal. We will not allow anyone to block roads. We regret the incident in Parachinar and stand with all the victims, but that does not mean that Karachi’s crucial roads should be blocked.”
The minister further pointed out that the government is facing criticism for the city’s blockade, with multiple major roads in Karachi being closed, leading to severe traffic congestion. Lanjhar warned that any challenge to the government’s authority would result in action.
He revealed that senior ministers had negotiated with the protesters and offered them an alternative site, but the offer was rejected. He condemned the burning of motorcycles and injuries to security personnel during clashes, questioning the peaceful nature of the protesters, particularly those responsible for firing at police.
Lanjhar also criticized the simultaneous calls for protests by religious scholars and leaders of the Shia community, stating that these actions prompted the government to intervene and clear the roads to alleviate public suffering.
Describing the dire traffic situation, the minister highlighted that many citizens were forced to abandon their vehicles and motorcycles, and those heading to the airport had to rely on motorcycle lifts to reach their destination.
The ongoing protests in Karachi, which began in solidarity with those affected by the road blockade in Kurram district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, have caused significant disruption to the city’s traffic flow, including severe difficulties for people trying to reach the airport. The protests are expected to continue unless an agreement is reached.
