Sindh government launches inquiry after missing Frere Hall paintings show up in TV drama

Case goes viral after drama shows artist's stolen artworks, that was once displayed at Frere Hall for his thesis

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The Sindh government has taken action following a social media campaign regarding the theft of paintings from Karachi’s historic Frere Hall.

The incident, which has gained significant attention online, prompted Sindh’s Minister for Culture and Tourism, Syed Zulfiqar Ali Shah, to issue a notice and form a two-member investigative committee.

The committee, which includes the Director General of Culture and the Director General of Antiquities, has been tasked with thoroughly investigating the matter and presenting a detailed report on the missing artwork.

Minister Syed Zulfiqar Ali Shah stated that the theft of paintings by a young artist was brought to his attention through social media, leading to the decision to form a committee.

"We have initiated a comprehensive investigation, and further action will be taken based on the findings. Any negligence or misconduct will be addressed accordingly," the minister assured.

He emphasised the importance of supporting young artists, describing them as a valuable asset to the nation, and assured that no injustice would be tolerated.

The case gained wider attention after Saifi Soomro, a painter from Daharki, discovered that his missing artworks, allegedly stolen years ago after being displayed at Frere Hall Karachi as part of his thesis, appeared in the Pakistani drama Kabhi Mein Kabhi Tum.

The paintings have now appeared in the drama and the artist got to know that he was scammed at that time.

Seffy Soomro had taken to his Facebook handle and shared all the details regarding his artwork while the netizens are suggesting him to take legal action against Frere Hall as the drama was shot there and his paintings are still present there.

Soomro's artwork had initially been on display at Frere Hall, where he was informed that his paintings had been stolen.

However, they recently resurfaced in the popular drama, raising concerns about the handling and security of artwork displayed in public galleries.

The government has pledged to get to the bottom of the issue, with further actions expected once the investigation concludes.