JSMM urges global recognition for Sindhudesh, calls for action against Pakistani oppression

Darmstadt, May 23: The Jeay Sindh Muttahida Mahaz (JSMM), led by chairman Shafi Burfat, has made an urgent request to the United Nations, international human rights organisations, democratic nations, and global civil groups to acknowledge Sindhudesh as an independent nation and denounce Pakistan's ongoing military control and systematic oppression of the Sindhi people.

In a detailed political and humanitarian document entitled The Sindhudesh Global Freedom Charter, JSMM emphasised Sindh's rich civilisational history and its ongoing battle against colonial rule, first under British domination and then under what it refers to as a "Punjabi-dominated military-security state" in Pakistan.

The Charter claims that Sindh, which is home to the ancient Indus Valley Civilisation, was never a willing participant in the establishment of Pakistan. JSMM contended that the inclusion of Sindh in Pakistan in 1947 constituted a betrayal of its national aspirations and historical identity. According to JSMM, Sindh currently exists under a form of colonial rule, deprived of sovereignty and controlled through military and political oppression.

JSMM has accused the Pakistani government of exploiting Sindh's abundant natural resources, including oil, gas, coal, ports, and agricultural land, while leaving the region in poverty. It asserted that state-sponsored resettlement initiatives are being employed to change Sindh's demographic profile, diminishing Sindhis to a minority in their land. The Charter also points out the environmental damage caused by the redirection of the Indus River, which has led to the desertification of fertile Sindhi territory.

The statement firmly condemned Pakistan's security forces for perpetrating serious human rights abuses in Sindh, including enforced disappearances, torture, and extrajudicial killings of political activists, journalists, and student leaders. It mentioned that anti-terrorism legislation is being misused to target secular and nationalist movements, whereas religious extremists receive support from the state.

JSMM reiterated its call for a free, secular, and democratic Republic of Sindhudesh, rooted in principles of equality, minority rights, and social welfare. It referenced international regulations, such as the UN Charter and the ICCPR, to advocate for Sindh's right to self-determination.

In a particular message to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the people of India, JSMM appealed for moral, political, and practical backing, stressing the historical and cultural connections between Sindh and India. Additionally, it urged international organisations to dispatch observers, denounce human rights violations, and aid Sindh's peaceful liberation movement.

Reader Comments

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Rajesh K.

This is heartbreaking to read. Sindh was indeed the cradle of our shared Indus Valley civilization. While India must be cautious about direct involvement, we should at least raise this issue in international forums. Pakistan's treatment of minorities is shameful. #StandWithSindh

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Priya M.

The Sindhi community in India has preserved their beautiful culture despite Partition. Their Sufi traditions and language deserve protection. But India should tread carefully - we don't want to give Pakistan excuses to interfere in Kashmir. International pressure is the way forward.

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Amit S.

Pakistan is making the same mistakes that led to Bangladesh's creation. They never learn! But honestly, while their human rights record is terrible, we should focus on our own issues first. India has enough challenges without taking on another neighbor's problems.

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Neha T.

The environmental destruction mentioned here is alarming. The Indus River is as important to Sindh as the Ganga is to us. 😔 International environmental groups should investigate these claims. Water wars will be the next big crisis in South Asia.

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Sanjay R.

As someone whose grandparents migrated from Sindh during Partition, this hits close to home. But India must be strategic - we should support Sindhi culture and human rights without making this about India vs Pakistan. Let the Sindhi people lead their own struggle.

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Kavita P.

The demographic changes mentioned are concerning. Pakistan did the same in PoK. But India should focus on documenting these violations rather than making loud statements. Quiet diplomacy through UN channels might be more effective in the long run.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.