Politics

Sindh assembly unanimously passes resolution rejecting division of provinces

The Sindh Assembly unanimously passed a resolution rejecting any division of the province or the creation of new administrative units. Members of the opposition Muttahida Qaumi Movement walked out of the house prior to the vote after their proposed amendments were excluded.

Sadia Basharat

Senior Digital Produce4 September 20262 min read

Sindh assembly unanimously passes resolution rejecting division of provincesPhoto: QOM

Karachi: The Sindh Assembly on Thursday unanimously adopted a resolution firmly rejecting any move to divide the province or create new provinces, following a walkout by lawmakers from the main opposition party, the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM).

The vote concluded a four-day debate on an adjournment motion moved by senior Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) leader Nisar Ahmed Khuhro. The discussion was initiated in response to recent political statements and debates regarding the creation of new provinces and administrative units.

Addressing the assembly at the close of the debate, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah affirmed that the province’s geographical unity was non-negotiable. He noted that under Article 239(4) of the Constitution, altering provincial boundaries requires a two-thirds majority in the relevant provincial assembly, followed by approvals from the National Assembly and the president. Shah stressed that no boundary changes could occur without the consent of the Sindh Assembly.

The Chief Minister highlighted Sindh’s historical contribution to the creation of Pakistan, citing the 1938 Sindh Muslim League resolution and the 1948 resolution opposing the detachment of Karachi. While rejecting proposals for new administrative units that include separate assemblies, Shah stated that the provincial government remains open to administrative reforms and creating new districts or divisions to enhance governance. He also criticised the MQM for maintaining inconsistent stances on the issue of new provinces.

Supporting the motion, Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Memon and Home Minister Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar emphasised that provincial boundaries must be addressed strictly through constitutional mechanisms. Lanjar cautioned that generating controversy around provincial borders risks causing public unrest during ongoing national security challenges.

Prior to the vote, MQM Leader of the Opposition Ali Khursheedi described the resolution as unnecessary, arguing that his party was not advocating for a separate province. He stated that the MQM sought the devolution of administrative powers and the empowerment of existing divisions under the 18th Amendment. MQM lawmakers subsequently staged a walkout after their proposed amendments regarding administrative devolution were not included in the final draft.

Following the opposition's departure, the remaining treasury members voted unanimously to adopt the resolution, formally asserting the territorial integrity of Sindh.