Since the inception of Pakistan, the Sindhi people have consistently prioritized the interests of our nation. We have considered Pakistan our home because our leaders played a significant role in its creation. Like responsible residents of a new house, we worked diligently to keep Pakistan clean and free from harm. This commitment dates back to 1947.
From Pakistan’s establishment until 1977, there was a prevailing sense of loyalty among all Pakistanis. Corruption was met with fear because we Sindhis saw ourselves as the custodians of this house we helped build. Pakistan was graced with remarkable leaders like Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, and Benazir Bhutto, who were willing to make great sacrifices for democracy and development. Sindhi people believed that politics and democracy were vital for Pakistan’s progress.
In the 1960s, Sindhi people openly supported Ms. Fatima Jinnah, considering her the sister or daughter of Quaid-e-Azam. Both she and Fatima Jinnah were daughters of this soil, dedicated to seeing Pakistan flourish. Despite her lack of a loving father, brother, husband, or son, we stood firmly by her side.
However, when I examine Pakistan’s history, numerous questions come to mind. Recent events involving Shazia Murri, a daughter of Sindh, raise concerns about media bias against Sindhis. False and fabricated news about her tarnished her reputation, despite her history of hard work, dedication, and honesty. Similar character assassination campaigns targeted other Sindhi leaders, including Faryal Talpur and Mukesh Kumar Chawla.
It appears that certain individuals are orchestrating these smear campaigns to keep the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) away from Punjab’s political landscape. In Punjab, a political vacuum exists, yet electable candidates are reluctant to contest elections on the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) ticket due to inflation concerns. To sideline the PPP in Punjab, rumors are being spread about its Sindhi leaders, including Shazia Murri and Mukesh Kumar Chawla.
My question is, why have Sindhi leaders been the consistent targets of such conspiracies since 1977?
For Pakistan to progress, the media plays a crucial role. However, there are individuals within the media, particularly on social media, who are uncontrollable and need to be regulated through appropriate legislation. Their actions distort society. Today, they are conspiring against Shazia Murri, but tomorrow, it could be Bashara Bibi or Maryam Nawaz Sharif. It’s essential for political parties to address this issue, and activists should be vigilant. Leaders like Maryam Nawaz Sharif and others must take the lead in this effort.
In conclusion, we must address bias against Sindhi leaders, strengthen media regulation, and ensure that our democracy remains fair and just for all Pakistanis. Pakistan’s progress depends on it.
