The Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) organised large-scale protests across Sindh against the federal government’s decision to construct new canals from the Indus River on Sunday.

Major sit-ins at key locations:

JUI-F leaders organised a sit-in at major places in which they criticised the PPP for not taking steps towards the water concerns of the region. The JUI-F leaders also said that PPP should end its coalition with PML-N in case the government does not take back its steps in the Indus River canal project. Soomro emphasised that Sindh is already experiencing a 55% water shortage and warned that the new canals would exacerbate the crisis by diverting water to other regions.

Accusations against Punjab:

Maulana Soomro accused Punjab of exploiting Sindh’s natural resources and is now attempting to seize its water. He asserted that such actions would not be tolerated and reminded the federal government that a strong Sindh is essential for a strong Pakistan.

Also Read: PPP Stages Protest Against Construction Of New Indus Canals

Call for PPP to take a stand:

The JUI-F leader challenged PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari to take a firm stance against the canal project. He suggested that Bilawal should demand that the Prime Minister has to halt the project or risk losing PPP’s support in the coalition government. Soomro accused the PPP of deceiving the people by not taking concrete action against the project despite holding significant positions in the federal and provincial governments.

Province-wide demonstrations:

The JUI-F held province-wise demonstrations. The areas included Guddu Barrage, Dadu-Moro Bridge, Amri Bridge, and Thatta-Sujawal Bridge. The JUI-F leaders alleged that the irrigation plan is suppressing the rights of the marginalised community while benefiting only the elite class.

Warnings of escalated actions:

The JUI-F leaders are very clear in their stances. They said if the federal government does not halt the canal project, then they will prolong their demonstrations. They also warned of blocking the Sindh-Punjab border. Moreover, they warn the government that people from all over Sindh are ready for the longest protests until they get their water rights.

Public sentiment and participation:

Many people from different sectors joined the protest. Political activists, ordinary citizens and civil society members joined the demonstration. In addition, these people carried banners and chanted slogans to resist the canal water project.

Artists and civil society join protests:

Artists from all over Sindh and civil society members took part in the demonstration. In a rally organised at the Larkana Arts Council, several actors, singers, and poets participated. They expressed their concerns over the growing economic impacts of this canal project.