KARACHI – A vibrant rally organised to celebrate Sindh Culture Day took a dark turn on Sunday, when participants reportedly clashed violently with police — prompting authorities to file a case under terrorism charges, officials said on Monday.
According to the First Information Report (FIR), the procession, which had started on Sharea Faisal, was blocked near the Finance and Trade Centre (FTC) to keep it away from the sensitive Red Zone. Despite repeated warnings, some rally-goers attempted to force their way through. Police allege those individuals then resorted to stone-pelting and even opened fire, compelling law-enforcers to intervene with tear gas and baton charge.
As tensions escalated, law enforcement detained 45 people, of whom 12 were later released. The FIR, while naming 12 suspects, also identified “300–400 unnamed participants” — indicating a possibly far larger group involved in the unrest. Charges against them are serious, including rioting, unlawful assembly, assault on public servants, damage to public and private property, attempted murder — and, notably, offences under anti-terror laws.
Eyewitnesses and police reports describe a chaotic scene: the crowd had blocked the road on both sides; damage was done to public and private vehicles, including a rescue ambulance and a police mobile; protesters allegedly shouted slogans deemed anti-state; and used dangerous tactics that risked lives. Police, according to the FIR, were stationed near the FTC flyover around 2:30 pm when the violence erupted — the rally participants, reportedly a 300–400 strong mob travelling on motorcycles and in cars, emerged from the airport side heading toward Saddar.
Authorities assert they were left with no option but to act forcefully to restore order and prevent further damage or loss of life. The violence during what was meant to be a cultural celebration has cast a long shadow over the event, prompting stern responses from law-enforcement and calls for accountability.
As investigations begin, authorities are making it clear that they intend to hold responsible not only those arrested, but also any unidentified persons involved in the disturbance — signaling a strict posture against any misuse of cultural expression for violence.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.