KARACHI- As Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) today began Karachi-wide protest demonstrations against arrest of workers, Governor Sindh Dr. Ishrat-ul-Ebad Khan flew to London to hold a curtail meeting with the party chief Altaf Hussain.
Sources said Ebad, who is also a central leader of the MQM, will discuss with Altaf Hussain the prevailing situation in Karachi. Meanwhile, Federal Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan telephoned Dr. Ebad and exchanged views over the situation arising out of Rangers raid.
The minister reportedly held assurance to the MQM leader that a complete enquiry would be conducted into the matter. The tension began when paramilitary Rangers conducted a raid at a sector office of MQM on Abu al Hasan Isfahani Road late Wednesday night and arrested 23 workers during a party meeting. It prompted MQM to announce protest sit-ins in Karachi.
The protests were held at Liaqatabad, Numaish Chowrangi, Star Gate, Jail Chowrangi and CM House, and more are expected at 3-Talwar, Nagan Chowrangi, Rizvia and other areas. MQM chief Altaf Hussain announced to commence sit-ins in ‘every street’ of the metropolis against what he called ‘anti-Mohajir animosity’ and the ‘unwarranted’ arrest of party activists.
The uncertain law-and-order situation in the city triggered chaos this morning as business activities were closed in several areas. The announcement of sit-ins also triggered traffic jam on main roads, including Shahrahe-Faisal and main M.A Jinnah road and Jail Chowrangi.
On the other hand, MQM leaders were holding talks with PPP leadership. The party also announced to boycott today’s Sindh Assembly session which passed resolution against division of Sindh.