Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari Warns PML-N Over Indus Canal Project, Vows to Defend Sindh’s Rights
Key Highlights from Bilawal’s Speech in Hyderabad:
- Strong Opposition to New Canals:
- PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari warned the PML-N-led federal government against proceeding with controversial canal projects on the Indus River.
- Accused PML-N of “anti-farmer policies”, including denying wheat support prices and imposing heavy taxes on agriculture.
- Political Confrontation Looms:
- Declared that PPP won’t back down, even if it means withdrawing support from the federal government.
- “We don’t care about ministries, we demand respect for Sindh’s rights,” he asserted.
- Historical Stance on Water Issues:
- Recalled Benazir Bhutto’s struggle for fair water distribution and opposition to Kalabagh Dam.
- Warned that new canals could threaten national unity, especially amid insurgency in Balochistan and KP.
- Defiance Against NAB & Federal Pressure:
- Dismissed threats of NAB cases against Sindh officials, saying “PPP jiyalas cannot be intimidated.”
- Referenced Umerkot by-election victory as public rejection of the canal project.
- Call for Dialogue or Resistance:
- Offered to discuss a 50-year water plan but warned PPP won’t compromise principles.
- Criticized federal leaders as “deaf and dumb” for ignoring Sindh’s concerns.
Farhatullah Babar’s Press Conference in Islamabad:
- Demanded CCI Intervention: Urged the Council of Common Interests (CCI) to decide on the canal issue.
- Warned of Elite Resource Grab: Accused Punjab’s elite of exploiting water resources under corporate farming.
- Called for Drought Emergency: Highlighted Pakistan’s water scarcity crisis, ranking among the top 10 water-deficient nations.
The PPP has drawn a red line on Sindh’s water rights, signaling a major political clash with the PML-N. Bilawal’s fiery rhetoric suggests the party is preparing for a tough stand, even at the cost of federal cooperation. With NAB pressure, wheat crises, and water disputes escalating, the government faces growing resistance from Sindh. If the canal issue isn’t resolved through CCI or dialogue, it could deepen inter-provincial tensions and destabilize the ruling coalition.
