Key Points:
- PPP’s Ultimatum on Canal Project:
- Sindh’s Provincial Minister Syed Nasir Hussain Shah warned that the PPP would exit the federal coalition if the controversial canals project is not withdrawn.
- He termed the project a “red line” for the party, emphasizing no compromise on national interest and provincial autonomy.
- Dispute Over Water Allocation:
- Shah accused IRSA of presenting inaccurate water availability data, stating recent assessments show insufficient water for the proposed project.
- He urged the PM and political leadership to cancel the scheme to avoid further conflict.
- Security and Military Support:
- Linked domestic terrorism to external forces and reaffirmed PPP’s backing for military operations against militants.
- Warned against weakening Pakistan’s armed forces, citing instability in Libya and Iraq as cautionary examples.
- Economic and Industrial Growth:
- Praised the Karachi furniture expo as a positive step for public awareness of interior design trends.
- Highlighted Pakistan’s mineral wealth but stressed the need for technology and investment, clarifying provincial rights over mining resources.
- Gas Distribution & SIFC’s Role:
- Criticized unequal gas distribution, demanding Sindh’s priority over its own resources while ensuring nationwide fairness.
- Applauded SIFC for managing promising projects and hoped contentious schemes would be reconsidered.
- Agriculture & Political Opposition:
- Encouraged modern farming in Sindh, particularly in water-rich regions, and discouraged criticism of other provinces’ agricultural efforts.
- Dismissed political opponents rallying against the canal project as opportunistic, asserting PPP’s focus remains on Pakistan’s broader interests.
Syed Nasir Hussain Shah’s statements underscore PPP’s firm stance on provincial autonomy, national security, and economic development. The party has drawn clear boundaries on the canals project, warning of political repercussions if their demands are ignored. Additionally, Shah emphasized the need for equitable resource distribution, modernization in agriculture, and sustained support for the military in countering terrorism. His remarks reflect PPP’s balancing act between coalition politics and safeguarding Sindh’s interests while advocating for national stability.
