By our correspondent
KARACHI: The Secretary General of the Mohajir Qaumi Movement–Haqiqi (MQM-H), Shahid Faraz, has criticized the ongoing government operations against “illegal encroachments,” alleging that they disproportionately target migrant communities while allowing influential outsiders to continue their violations unchecked.
Speaking during a meeting with a delegation of senior migrant leaders from the District Central Office at the residence of Afaq Ahmed, Faraz condemned the actions as discriminatory and unconstitutional.
“Once again, the migrant community is being systematically targeted under the pretext of anti-encroachment operations, while unauthorized encroachments by influential non-locals remain untouched. This is not only a violation of constitutional rights but also an open act of discrimination against citizens,” he said.
Faraz further stated that recent operations in various areas have deliberately focused on migrant neighborhoods, small businesses, and labor-class citizens. He described the sealing of shops and businesses as a continuation of the Sindh government’s biased policies.
“Does the law exist only for the poor and powerless?” Faraz questioned. “Are small shopkeepers and laborers, who sustain the city’s struggling economy, the only targets of state action? Destroying livelihoods and homes does not solve problems—it only increases unemployment, insecurity, and feelings of deprivation.”
He demanded that anti-encroachment actions be carried out transparently, indiscriminately, and within the bounds of the law. He added that any operation without clear plans for alternative employment and rehabilitation constitutes a blatant violation of human rights.
“Under no circumstances will the migrant community relinquish its legitimate rights,” Faraz asserted. “We will continue to raise our voice against this discrimination on every democratic and constitutional platform.”
