In Sindh’s Kashmore, a protest erupted due to the abduction of members from the minority Hindu community by riverine bandits. This protest endured for four consecutive days, beginning on the previous Friday.
Dr. Chand Mahar, a prominent protest leader, communicated to media spurces, detailing that the demonstration took place in Dera More, an area near the Sindh-Punjab border. He revealed that around three members of the Hindu community had fallen into the hands of dacoits after a recent interception. Additionally, he noted the captivity of a Muslim doctor for the preceding 40 days.
The abducted individuals were identified as Mukhi Jagdish Kumar, Sagar Kumar, Jaideep Kumar, and Dr. Munir Naij. Mukhi, a 72-year-old businessman, and Jaideep, a nine-year-old, were both kidnapped from Kashmore taluka. Dr. Mahar confirmed that Sagar had also been abducted from Kashmore city, while Naij had been taken in Guddu around 40 days ago.
Protests unfolded not only in response to these abductions but also in light of the increasing incidents of robberies in Sindh. These protests occurred across various cities in the province the previous day, with the victims’ relatives fervently demanding the early and safe return of their loved ones.
The protesters, representing diverse religious backgrounds, united in their demand for a military and Rangers operation against the kidnappers and bandits.
Dr. Mahar, who had previously held the position of senior vice president of PPP’s minority wing in Sindh, voiced the widespread frustration with the ongoing kidnappings.
Despite calls to end their protest, the demonstrators stood firm, stressing that the hostages remained captive by the dacoits. Kashmore’s Senior Superintendent of Police, Amjad Sheikh, had assured them of a swift recovery.
Dr. Mahar estimated that approximately 40 individuals had fallen victim to riverine bandit kidnappings in recent months, with some being released following ransom payments. He explained that members of the Hindu community, primarily engaged in businesses, were often targeted due to their perceived vulnerability to ransom demands.
Dr. Lal Chand Ukrani, president of the PPP’s minority wing in Sindh, echoed these concerns, emphasizing that Hindus were considered easy targets for ransom. During his tenure, he had discussed this issue with former Chief Minister Sindh, Murad Ali Shah, citing the challenging law and order situation, particularly in Kashmore.
In addition to the abductions, Dr. Mahar brought attention to the disappearance of three girls from the area: Nazia, Priya Kumari, and Kasuar Khoso.
