THATTA: Sindh police have arrested Syed Jalal Shah, the district president of the Sindh Taraqi Pasand (STP) Party, in connection with a protest that turned violent and targeted the convoy of Minister of State for Religious Affairs, Kheel Das Kohistani.
The arrest follows an FIR registered after demonstrators hurled stones, eggs, and tomatoes at the minister’s vehicle as it passed through Thatta on Friday. The convoy was en route when it encountered a protest organised by nationalist groups opposing controversial canal projects in the region.
Though no injuries were reported and the convoy passed through the area without escalation, authorities have taken a hard stance, naming several STP activists in the FIR, including Haider Shoro, Hakeem Brohi, and Javed Janori.
The demonstrators had gathered to express their opposition to what they call “disputed canals” that allegedly threaten local agriculture and displace rural communities. The protest is part of a broader campaign by nationalist parties and civil society groups concerned about water diversion projects.
Human rights organisations and political observers have raised concerns about Shah’s arrest, particularly regarding the use of force. Calls are growing for an impartial inquiry into both the protest and the police response.
Federal Minister for Law Azam Nazeer Tarar condemned the incident, stating: “Attacks on public officials are unacceptable. The law must take its course.”
Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah also strongly condemned the attack and directed Hyderabad DIG to ensure swift action. “No one has the right to take the law into their own hands,” he said, ordering a full report on the incident.
Police say further arrests are expected as the investigation continues.
