Bradford, May 22, 2025: The World Sindhi Congress (WSC) hosted a powerful and emotional gathering in Bradford, United Kingdom, to honor the enduring legacy of Sindh’s heroes — individuals, known and unknown, who gave their lives in the struggle for Sindh’s sovereignty, human rights, and national identity.
The event, a vibrant display of cultural pride and political resolve, opened with a moving rendition of the Sindhi National Anthem by Kamran Lashari, stirring deep emotions and igniting a sense of unity among attendees.
Hosted by Gul Sanai, the program was divided into two thematic segments:
Part I: “Voice of Sindh”
This segment amplified the voices of Sindh’s youth and artists. Talha Rind, Hiba Jarwar, and Halar Sanai delivered impassioned speeches, paying homage to iconic figures such as Comrade Sobho Gianchandani.
Sonhan Ali Memon recited nationalistic poetry, while Shahid Channa mesmerized the audience with the patriotic song “Sindh Murki Pei.” Video messages from Surath Lohar, Sanghar Jaman Darbadar, Dr. Parh Sarai Qurban Kahawar, Haleem Baghi, and others bridged the geographical gap between the diaspora and their homeland.
Part II: “Tribute to heroes, current issues, and the way forward”
A minute of silence was observed in memory of Hurun-Nisa Palijo, a leading advocate for women’s rights in Sindh, whose recent passing was deeply mourned. Her lifelong struggle was recognized as an enduring inspiration for generations to come.
Special recognition was also given to volunteers who provided food, water, and logistical support during the Babarloo sit-in, acknowledging their grassroots commitment to justice.
The session featured impactful speeches by Dr. Hidayat Bhutto, WSC UK and Europe Organizer, Muhammad Yunus, Awami Workers Party North UK, Taha Rind, Sindhi Sangat UK, Hafizan Wadhiyo and Rauf Leghari.
These speakers addressed issues surrounding the Sindhi political movement, resource exploitation, and the urgency of unity in the face of systemic challenges.
In his keynote address, Dr. Lakho Lohana, Chairman of the World Sindhi Congress, outlined the existential threats facing Sindh. He condemned the construction of six illegal canals diverting water from the Indus River, land grabbing under the guise of agricultural projects, water theft by Punjab and environmental and sovereign harm caused by the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).
Dr. Lohana called upon the international community to recognize these alarming developments and stand in solidarity with the Sindhi people, urging collective resistance to protect Sindh’s identity and future.
The following resolutions were adopted unanimously:
- Condemnation of the government’s alleged support for the extrajudicial killing of Dr. Shahnawaz Kambhar
- Denunciation of forced religious conversions and child marriages of Sindhi Hindu girls
- Opposition to the construction of illegal canals on the Indus River
- Demand for the return of lands allocated to corporate farming, with redistribution to local farmers
- Rejection of the decisions and structure of the Council of Common Interests (CCI), calling them unrepresentative of Sindh’s interests
The event concluded with cultural performances by Kamran Lashari, Manzoor Balkani, and Shahid Channa, enhancing the spirit of national pride and resistance.
Guests were treated to traditional Sindhi cuisine, fostering a warm environment of community, identity, and continued struggle.
This gathering served not only as a tribute to the past but also as a clarion call for action — reaffirming the World Sindhi Congress’s commitment to the protection of Sindh’s rights, resources, and identity.
