Senate Committee Demands Action Against Rising Crime in Kashmore

In recent times, the Kashmore district has witnessed a troubling surge in criminal activities, raising alarms among local authorities and residents alike. The Senate Standing Committee on Rules of Procedure and Privileges convened on Friday to address these pressing concerns, emphasizing the urgent need for action against the criminals wreaking havoc in the area. Chaired by Senator Taj Haider, the meeting highlighted the alarming frequency of kidnappings and other crimes that have turned Kashmore into a hotspot for lawlessness.

Senator Saifullah Abro, who brought the issue to the committee's attention, expressed his frustration over the lack of response from the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kashmore. Despite making over 50 attempts to reach out, including notifications to the SSP’s office, he received no reply. Senator Abro pointed out that in just three days, ten individuals were abducted, underscoring the dire situation. He recounted a shocking incident where a local police inspector allegedly demanded a ransom of Rs10 million and four iPhones for the release of a victim, illustrating the depth of corruption and criminality in the region.

During the meeting, Senator Taj Haider recommended that the committee escalate the matter to the Chief Minister, advocating for disciplinary action against the SSP Kashmore due to the seriousness of the incidents. He also suggested that the recommendations be communicated to the Inspector General (IG) and other relevant officials to ensure a coordinated response to the crisis.

In a broader context, Senator Abro urged the committee to engage with the Establishment Division, highlighting that the rampant criminal activities in Kashmore and surrounding districts are tarnishing the reputation of Sindh province. This call for action reflects a growing concern among lawmakers about the implications of unchecked crime on public safety and governance.

Additionally, the committee addressed a Privilege Motion raised by Senator Saadia Abbasi regarding an article published in the Daily Dawn, which she claimed was intended to malign parliamentarians. The article, authored by the Assistant Chief (Policy) of PIDE, was criticized for misrepresenting public opinion and research. Senator Abbasi's concerns were echoed by Senator Taj Haider, who argued that the language used in the article was offensive and could be seen as defamatory. He emphasized that academic discussions should be rooted in respect and factual accuracy, rather than sensationalism.

As the committee deliberated on the introduction of Constitutional Amendment Bills by Senate members, differing opinions emerged regarding the need for party approval before such bills are presented. Senator Saadia Abbasi advocated for the consideration of political members' privileges, while Senator Dost Ali Jeesar suggested that a minimum consensus of 20 percent should be required for amendments to pass. The discussions reflect the complexities of legislative processes and the importance of maintaining party integrity in decision-making.

The Senate Standing Committee's meeting serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in Pakistan, particularly in regions like Kashmore. The rising tide of criminal activity not only threatens the safety of citizens but also undermines the credibility of local authorities. As lawmakers push for accountability and action, it is imperative for the government to prioritize public safety and restore trust in law enforcement agencies. The situation in Kashmore is a call to action for all stakeholders to work collaboratively towards a safer and more secure environment for all residents.