Asifa Bhutto Convoy Attacked Near M9 Motorway
The attack on Aseefa Bhutto's convoy is a significant escalation of the protests against the canal project, which have been ongoing for several days. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of political leaders and the need for a peaceful resolution to the controversy surrounding the project.
A convoy of First Lady MNA Aseefa Bhutto Zardari was attacked with stones and sticks near the M9 Motorway's toll plaza in Jamshoro on Friday by a group of nationalist workers protesting against a controversial canal project planned on the Sindh River.
The attackers staged a sit-in protest, blocking the convoy's path, and refused to let the vehicles pass despite the presence of security and local police. The convoy was diverted to a nearby unpaved land, but the protesters surrounded the vehicles, pelting stones and hitting them with sticks. However, the vehicles managed to move through the crowd without harming anyone.
The incident occurred amid protests against the canal project, with locals and opposition parties claiming it threatens Sindh's water resources. The protesters alleged that the canal project is an attempt to divert the river Sindh, and that Punjab is responsible for the water crisis and recent violence in Sindh. The police later booked over 70 people, including 16 named individuals, in an FIR and arrested some of the accused.
Aseefa Bhutto, the youngest daughter of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto and current President Asif Ali Zardari, was traveling from Karachi to Nawabshah when the incident occurred. She recently received the ceremonial title of First Lady of Pakistan, a first in the country's history. The incident has sparked tensions between Sindh and Punjab, with Sindh blaming Punjab for the water crisis and recent violence.
The police intervention and safe escort of Aseefa's vehicle out of the area prevented any injuries, and an FIR has been registered against the attackers, with multiple arrests made. The incident highlights the ongoing controversy surrounding the canal project and the need for a resolution to the water crisis affecting Sindh.