Anti-sardari system resolution rejected

A separate resolution seeking the launch of direct flights between Quetta and Sukkur could not be put to a vote after the House lost quorum.The session, which began 40 minutes late under the chairmanship of Deputy Speaker Ghazala Gola, saw Jamaat-e-Islami member Maulana Hidayatur Rehman Baloch present the resolution on the Sardari system.

He argued that the 1976 Act was enacted nationwide to abolish illegal powers, coercion and outdated tribal practices under the Sardari system that conflicted with citizens' freedom, equality and legal rights.

Despite the law, he said, some areas of Balochistan still witnessed alleged threats, pressure, forced decisions, economic and social exploitation, and restricted access to justice in the name of tribal influence.He claimed that even with 140 sardars, none could protect Asma Jattak's father, and that Balochistan's youth rejected the system, which survived only with the backing of the establishment and government signals.

He demanded a ban on the use of the titles Sardar and Nawab.Provincial Minister Mir Zahoor Buledi said there was no opposition to the persons of nawabs and sardars, but certain incidents of human rights violations were unacceptable.Provincial Minister Ali Madad Jattak supported the resolution, stating that the 1976 Act had abolished the system and that while some benevolent sardars resolved disputes, others practised oppression.

After a vote, the resolution failed for lack of majority.Earlier, JUI's Shahida Rauf moved a resolution for introducing basic Arabic as a compulsory subject in all government primary schools.

She said education must include moral and religious development, and that Arabic, being the language of the Holy Quran, would help children understand its vocabulary and meaning.

The House recommended an age-appropriate curriculum, teacher training, quality textbooks and phased implementation with regular review.

Education Minister Raheela Hameed Durrani noted existing provisions for Nazira Quran and Arabic at higher levels and requested the mover to withdraw the resolution, but the House later approved it.National Party's Umm-e-Kulsum, along with Deputy Speaker Ghazala Gola and members Farah Azim Shah, Safia Bibi and Salma Bibi, presented a joint resolution seeking direct Quetta-Sukkur flights to ease long road journeys for patients, students, officials and traders.

Debate was ongoing when the House lost quorum and was adjourned until Monday.

Separately, BNP-A's Mir Asadullah Baloch raised incomplete road schemes in Panjgur; the notice was disposed of after assurances from the communications and planning ministers.

Anti-sardari system resolution rejected SHOAIB RAISANI | Updated 24 minutes ago | Balochistan Assembly approves primary school Arabic classes.