Machh Massacre: Hazara Community Protest enters fourth straight day

Thousands of Shia Hazara mourners, who have blockaded various parts of Sindh and Balochistan have refused to end their sit-in which entered the fourth consecutive day on Wednesday

Hazara community members are protesting against the recent brutal killing of 11 community members in Machh area of Balochistan.

A large number of Hazara community members along with civil society activists gathered outside the Karachi Press Club to show their anger over the failure of the government and the law enforcement forces in arresting the terrorists.

They said it was as if the assailants “flee with complete impunity” each time after killing their community members.

In Karachi, a large number of people belonging to the Hazara Community blocked roads linking to NIPA and University road by torching the tires. Protest participants said the killing of innocent people of the community could not force them to give up their faith.

Moreover, demonstrations are being held in other parts of the city including Kamran Chowrangi and adjoining areas.

Roads linking to Shara e Faisal witnessed severe traffic jams. Commuters faced difficulties in reaching their destinations while many ambulances were also reported to be stuck.

The Majlis Wahjat-e-Muslimeen also organized sit-ins and protests at Numaish Chowrangi, Abbas Town and Ancholi to show solidarity with the Hazara community members protesting against the Machh tragedy. The MWM also held a vigil at Numaish Chowrangi to pray for the victims of the recent terror attack in Balochistan.

In Quetta, even extremely cold weather could not force the protesters, including women and children, to leave the Western Bypass area.

Meanwhile, Balochistan government spokesman Liaquat Ali Shahwani has termed the demand for resignation of the provincial government unjustified and said that after the Balochistan Awami Party and its allies came to power, terrorist attacks on Hazara people and other subversive activities in the province had reduced to great extent.

Security forces and law enforcement agencies were taking all possible steps for the arrest of those involved in the Mach incident, he said.

Minister for Interior Sheikh Rasheed also announced compensation amounting to Rs2.5 million for the families of each of the deceased coal miners.

“Each family of the martyrs will be given Rs1 million by the Prime Minister, while Rs1.5 million by the chief minister of Balochistan,” he told the media.

After his return to the capital today, he briefed the premier about his visit and the demands made by the Hazara leaders.