ON May 20, nationalist parties organised a sit-in protest on the National Highway in Moro against the controversial canals project. The police launched an operation to stop the protest, which led to an angry reaction from the public. Enraged individuals attacked and set fire to the house of a provincial minister. The violence resulted in the death of two political activists, significantly escalating political tension and unrest in Sindh.
While holding a peaceful protest within the confines of law is a fundamental right ofevery citizen, attackinga political opponent`s residence and resorting to arson can never be justified. Besides, equally condemnable is the use of lethal force by the police.
Dissent is a democratic right. People are entitled to criticise politicalpolicies and protest peacefully. However, such actions must remain non-violent. Historically, Sindh has witnessed many protests against water-related infrastructure projects, but they have remained peaceful and the protesters never targeted the homes or properties of political opponents a tradition that aligned with Sindh`s political values.
The violent incidents in Moro have triggered a wave of mass concern and grief across the province. While protesting againstthe canals project and plans related to corporate farming is a legitimate democratic right, taking the law into one`s hands and attacking homes cannot be justified under any circumstances.
