Karachi, December 31, 2024 – Sit-ins organized by the Majlis Wahdat-e-Muslimeen (MWM) across various locations in Karachi took a violent turn on Tuesday, with multiple vehicles set ablaze and clashes reported between protesters and law enforcement.
According to reports by Aaj News, the protests entered their eighth consecutive day, with demonstrators gathering at key locations to voice their solidarity with the people of Parachinar. The situation became particularly tense at Numaish Chowrangi, where a police operation aimed at dispersing the crowd escalated into violent confrontations. Protesters reportedly set fire to four motorcycles in retaliation, while the police resorted to tear gas shelling to disperse the demonstrators.
Eyewitnesses reported scenes of chaos as protesters hurled stones at law enforcement officers, leading to a prolonged standoff in the area. The clashes disrupted traffic and caused significant unrest, leaving residents and commuters stranded for hours.
Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah took notice of the violence and the burning of vehicles, instructing the Additional Inspector General of Police (AIGP) Karachi to restore order and ensure public safety. “Action will be taken against those responsible for setting vehicles on fire,” the Chief Minister stated, emphasizing that while the right to protest is respected, damaging public and private property will not be tolerated.
The Chief Minister underscored the importance of maintaining public order and directed law enforcement to end the disruption promptly. He reiterated that a designated platform for protests has been provided and that demonstrations outside these specified areas would face strict legal action. Shah further instructed officials to submit a detailed report on the incidents at the earliest.
The prolonged sit-ins have raised concerns among Karachi residents, who are facing increasing difficulties due to blocked roads and disrupted public services. Business owners in affected areas have also expressed frustration over the continued unrest, which has impacted daily operations and led to financial losses.
As the situation remains volatile, calls for dialogue and peaceful resolution have grown louder, with civic leaders urging both sides to exercise restraint and prioritize the safety and well-being of Karachi’s citizens.