Ethnic tensions in Sindh and their possible solution

Abstract

From the creation of Pakistan in 1947 onwards, its southern province of Sindh has had waves of ethnic tensions between native Sindhis and the Muhajirs, Urdu‐speaking immigrants of Indian origin. Since the launch of the Muhajir Quomi Movement (Immigrants’ Nationalist Movement) in 1986, rising tensions have threatened both the territorial integrity of Pakistan and regional security arrangements with India. A solution to ethnic tensions in Sindh requires an understanding and accommodation between Sindhi and Urdu sections of the population. The willingness of Urdu‐speakers to gradually assimilate themselves in the host community and the devolution of power at federal, provincial and local level are crucial in bringing about harmony between these two major sections of the population of Sindh.