By Shaheen Hashim
KARACHI: A rally celebrating Sindhi culture on Karachi’s Shahrah-e-Faisal took a violent turn on Sunday as participants clashed with police, prompting authorities to take action to restore order.
The procession, which had gathered near the FTC on the route to the airport, blocked the busy thoroughfare before tensions escalated, with some participants reportedly throwing stones at officers. Several police vehicles and a water tanker were damaged during the unrest, and multiple protesters were taken into custody.
Police said the rally had been instructed to move from Kala Pul towards Saddar, but demonstrators defied orders, leading to confrontations with officers. Following the dispersal, the airport-bound section of Shahrah-e-Faisal was reopened, although a portion of the crowd regrouped near FTC, briefly obstructing traffic again. Authorities quickly rerouted vehicles via Lucky Star to manage congestion and prevent further disruption.
Despite the clashes, officials confirmed that the rally had been largely dispersed and that normal traffic flow had resumed. The incident occurred as Karachi marked Sindhi Culture Day with various city-wide events, including cultural processions, rallies, and displays celebrating the province’s heritage.
Police in Karachi have registered a case against participants of a rally near FTC on Shahrah‑e‑Faisal for rioting and violence. The case, filed at the Saddar police station, includes charges under anti‑terrorism, rioting, property damage, and related sections.
Twelve individuals have been named and arrested, while over 300 others remain unidentified. According to the FIR, a rally of 300 to 400 people attacked police with sticks and stones and opened fire. Participants also damaged a Red Bus, police vehicles, and an ambulance.
