Karachi, December 10, 2025: Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) senior leader Farooq Sattar on Wednesday criticised the ruling Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) over the recent observance of Sindhi Culture Day in Sindh, alleging that a “state within a state” was created on Karachi’s main roads in the name of the festival.
Addressing a press conference alongside Leader of the Opposition in the Sindh Assembly Ali Khurshidi and other party leaders, Sattar claimed that incidents of unrest, rioting and violence occurred across Karachi on December 7 under the guise of celebrating Sindhi Culture Day.
He alleged that both public and private property was damaged, hostile slogans were raised against the country, and weapons were openly displayed at various locations in the city. Describing the events as “shameful and regrettable,” Sattar said they warranted strong condemnation, particularly from the ruling provincial government.
The MQM-P leader, who is also a member of the National Assembly, said the rule of law was violated in the name of cultural celebrations, remarking that it appeared as if “Sindhu Desh had been declared.” He also condemned clashes with the police that reportedly left several people injured, terming the incidents frightening and dangerous.
Sattar said cases registered in connection with the violence included charges of terrorism, attempted murder and other serious offences. However, he expressed disappointment over the lack of response from the Sindh government, noting that while the provincial spokesperson reacts swiftly to minor issues, no statement was issued on these incidents.
He further criticised the judicial response, alleging that suspects arrested red-handed were produced before courts that effectively “fought their case themselves,” resulting in the release of most detainees.
The MQM-P leader also claimed that participants in the rallies used abusive language against Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori and attempted to target him upon reaching the Governor House. He alleged that threats were made against the governor and his family, yet no action was taken.
Sattar said Pakistan’s integrity was challenged and Karachi’s peace disrupted, warning of a conspiracy to foment conflict in the city. He urged the Sindh government to ensure that no one takes the law into their own hands and demanded that the Sindh High Court take suo motu notice of the incidents, constitute a commission, and conduct a thorough investigation.
