Karachi Unrest: Ethnic Tensions Rise Amid Conspiracy Allegations
The allegations of conspiracy and the imposition of Section 144 have raised concerns about the potential for further unrest in Karachi, with authorities struggling to maintain law and order in the face of protests and demonstrations. The situation is being closely monitored, with the city's residents bracing for potential further violence.
MQM-H chairman Afaq Ahmed has alleged a conspiracy to inflame ethnic tensions in Karachi, claiming that a recent incident of a motorcycle being set on fire under a dumper truck was orchestrated to sabotage his party's growing public support.
Ahmed accused authorities of not arresting the actual arsonists, while detaining innocent citizens and his party workers. He stated that the incident was designed to create the impression of ethnic violence and undermine his party's stance, which has led to an informal alliance between the MQM and the PPP. Ahmed emphasized that his party is not promoting ethnic division and is instead calling for a peaceful protest involving all communities affected by issues in Karachi.
The incident has led to the imposition of Section 144 in District Central, Karachi, by Commissioner Syed Hassan Naqvi, citing a report from the Central senior superintendent of police that the same group was behind the incidents of heavy vehicles being torched and mob attacks on global fast-food chains. Five FIRs have been registered, and additional rallies are scheduled to take place, with authorities warning of further unrest.
The situation in Karachi remains tense, with the ban on protests, demonstrations, and gatherings of more than five people aiming to prevent further law and order disturbances. Ahmed has demanded that those involved in staging the UP Mor incident be arrested and brought to justice, while criticizing the enforcement of Section 144 as a reaction to his party's successful mobilization efforts.