PPP to present resolution in Sindh Assembly against MQM's 'black day'

MQM had made a call for strike on October 26 in protest against Khursheed Shah's remarks on 'muhajirs'

KARACHI: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) will present a resolution in the Sindh Assembly, condemning Muttahida Qaumi Movement’s (MQM) decision to observe ‘black day’ against Khursheed Shah’s statement on ‘muhajirs’, Express News reported Tuesday.

Life in parts of Sindh came to a standstill on October 26 after MQM gave a call to observe ‘black day’ against what they termed as derogatory remarks made by Shah against ‘muhajirs’. Shah had said he considers the word ‘muhajir’ a ‘gaali’ (curse) and urged people to stop referring to themselves as muhajirs.

PPP MPA Kulsoom Chandio will present the resolution in the house today which states that the party condemns MQM’s decision to observe black day even after Shah apologised for his statements.

Businesses and petrol pumps were closed down on the ‘black day’, while entry tests in a few universities were cancelled due to the strike call. MQM had also staged a sit-in in Karachi where party chief Altaf Hussain addressed the supporters.

MQM's response 

Commenting on PPP's decision to present the resolution, MQM leader Khawaja Izharul Hassan told the media that his party too can present resolutions against PPP October 18 rally and other political issues.

"All political parties have democratic rights and can take part in political activities; we will respond equally to all such moves," said Hassan.

Speaking about MQM leaving the Sindh government, Hassan said since the resignations have been accepted, MQM is now technically part of the opposition.

On a question about who will be the opposition leader, the MQM leader said party's Rabita Committee will make the decision.

Hassan also emphasised that MQM will never break any parliamentary rules and regulations.