In Pakistan, a massive demonstration march, arranged by the Awami Tehreek (AT), transpired from Gozo to KN Shah, with people demonstrating against corporate farming and the construction of six new canals in Sindh.
The marchers demanded that Sindh’s land be granted to local, landless farmers rather than corporate companies. The protest observed active participation from women and children, with villagers along the course warmly welcoming the protestors.
Upon reaching KN Shah, the protest came to an end in a large public rally where leaders addressed the gathering with ardent speeches and demanded the government stop land seizures.
They voiced for the prioritisation of local farmers by providing modern agricultural tools and support to enhance productivity.
Central speakers at the protest included AT leader Noor Ahmed Katiar, who criticised the network of new canals aimed at supplying water to corporate farming projects.
Katiar warned, “This will lead to a crisis in Sindh,” and alleged former President Asif Zardari of breaching the Constitution by endorsing the construction of six new canals.
AT General Secretary Advocate Sajid Hussain Mahesar also addressed the crowd, condemned the coalition government for advancing the canal projects. He noted them as an attack on the vision of Pakistan’s founder, Quaid-i-Azam.
Mahesar disclosed that “67,651 acres of land in Kachho had been given to foreign investors for corporate farming,” endangering the livelihoods of local farmers and neglecting Sindh’s autonomy.
Advocate Raheel Bhutto fiercely opposed the approval of 10,000 acres in Gorakh Hill to a private firm, said, “This move is an attack not only on Sindh’s lands but on its culture and heritage.”
Bhutto warned, “If the PPP government does not take steps, the people of Sindh will hold them responsible, just as they have done with past dictatorial regimes.”
The demonstration ended with powerful slogans demanding the termination of the new canals, an end to corporate farming, and the protection of Sindh’s lands, rivers, and cultural heritage.
