GDA demands President Zardari's resignation

Warns against compromising on Sindh's share in Indus River waters

KARACHI:

The Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA) and other opposition parties in Sindh have rejected proposed amendments to the Indus River System Authority (IRSA) laws and demanded the resignation of President Asif Zardari.

They claim the amendments are unconstitutional and part of a conspiracy to damage Sindh's agricultural sector. A joint press conference was held where GDA's Secretary General Dr. Safdar Abbasi, and other prominent political figures, criticized the amendments, vowing to prevent their implementation. Protest demonstrations across Sindh are planned for September 19 in response to what the opposition considers anti-Sindh policies.

During the press conference, Dr. Safdar Abbasi emphasized that the proposed changes would harm the Indus River system, affecting water distribution in Sindh, which he argued is already managed below the recommended levels. He pointed to the national consensus on the 1991 Water Distribution Agreement, under which IRSA operates. Abbasi accused the current Pakistan People's Party (PPP) government of exploiting Sindh's resources and described the amendments as a life-or-death issue for the province's people and its agriculture.

Several leaders, including Syed Zain Shah, Liaqat Jatoi, and Sardar Abdul Rahim, echoed Abbasi's concerns. Shah warned of environmental consequences, including cities like Karachi being affected by the sea if water is not adequately released downstream.

Jatoi added that millions of acres of land in Badin remain uncultivated, worsening the economic crisis. He criticized the lack of consultation with stakeholders before proposing the amendments and called for the release of water as stipulated by the 1991 agreement.

Other political leaders present, including Jamaat-e-Islami's Muhammad Hussain Mehnati and PTI's Ali Palh Advocate, condemned the President's decision, labeling it unconstitutional and divisive. They emphasized that the provincial assemblies' powers should not be undermined. Palh suggested that both President Zardari and Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah should resign over the issue.

Leaders like Riaz Chandio of Jeay Sindh Mahaz voiced strong opposition, claiming the amendments aim to devastate Sindh and pledged a united struggle to prevent their implementation.