Murder, disorder mar Sufi festival

Shopkeeper allegedly kills buyer over price dispute; traffic chaos irks visitors

BADIN:

The annual Ursof the renowned Sufi Saint, Hazrat Saman Sarkar, near Pangrio in Tando Bago Tehsil, has been overshadowed by severe mismanagement and tragic incidents. A young visitor was allegedly killed in a dispute with a shopkeeper, while chaotic traffic and poor facilities have added to the frustration of devotees and visitors.

A young devotee who came to the shrine attend the celebrations was allegedly killed by a shopkeeper over a financial dispute on the shrine compound.

The 25-year-old resident of Nandu city, Shakeel Jamali, who came to Dargah Saman Sarkar, near Pangrio city of Tehsil Tondob Bago, died due to the alleged violence of the owner of a pottery shop.

According to police, the shopkeeper fled after the incident and the body was shifted to a government hospital in Pangrio.

Traffic chaos and mismanagement

The fair's organisers and local authorities have come under fire for failing to manage the large influx of visitors. Traffic jams have disrupted movement on key routes, including those connecting Badin, Tando Bago, Pangrio, Jhuddo, Naukot, and Malkani Sharif. Pilgrims and ordinary travelers have been stuck in long queues, creating distress and anxiety.

Many visitors have complained about inadequate arrangements for basic necessities, such as accommodation, drinking water, washrooms, and security, despite the collection of substantial fees from vendors and stall owners.

Corruption in offerings, earnings

The temporary bazaar at the fair, featuring hundreds of stalls selling sweets, dry fruits, clothing, toys, food, and entertainment options, reportedly charges stall owners between Rs5,000 and Rs7,000 per foot. Sources allege that fair organizers, along with officials from the Auqaf Department, illegally amassed more than Rs120 million in less than five days through stall rentals and other levies.

Visitors have also expressed concerns about the misappropriation of offerings made at the shrine. Pilgrims donate cash, valuables, and even live poultry as part of their devotions, with many leaving precious items upon the fulfillment of their vows. However, allegations have emerged that only a fraction of these offerings reach the official treasury, with the rest being diverted by organizers and Awqaf officials.

Parking fees diverted

Parking arrangements have also drawn criticism. Thousands of vehicles use the designated parking areas daily, but the fees collected are reportedly distributed among organizers and traffic police instead of being deposited into the government treasury.

The mismanagement and corruption surrounding the festival have caused widespread discontent, with attendees demanding stricter oversight and accountability from both the festival organizers and local authorities.