Mehmoodabad, Azam Basti, Manzoor Colony, and Akhtar Colony Deprived of Basic Facilities; Jirga Mafia Allegedly Active in the Area, Action Demanded

Karachi: Prominent interfaith pioneer and social activist, Nazia Adalat, has raised concerns over the deplorable conditions in the areas of Mehmoodabad, Azam Basti, Manzoor Colony, and Akhtar Colony, where residents are reportedly deprived of basic facilities. The lack of access to clean drinking water, deteriorating sewage lines, unmaintained drains, frequent unannounced power outages, and a shortage of government-provided transport are just a few of the challenges faced by the local communities.

Additionally, these areas suffer from a lack of government dispensaries, maternity homes, playgrounds, and public parks, making life increasingly difficult for residents.

Adal highlighted that these neighborhoods, home to a diverse population from across the country, including a significant Christian community, are being further destabilized by a so-called “Jirga mafia.” This group, allegedly acting under the protection of influential individuals, unlawfully evicts poor residents from their homes under the guise of state agents.

Despite court orders, this mafia reportedly continues to hold jirgas, disregarding legal directives.

Nazia Adal has urged the public to report any information about such illegal jirgas to the Complaints Cells of the Supreme Court and the High Court.

She also called upon religious leaders, including Bishop Benny Mario Travis, Bishop Frederick John of the Church of Pakistan, and Major Samuel John of the Salvation Army, to intervene and support the affected communities.

The largest Christian population in Sindh resides in these areas, and their welfare is a matter of urgent concern.