"When life's basic needs become privileges, communities begin to resist -- or fall!"
Ghotki district in Sindh is rich in natural resources and industries, yet its people remain deprived of basic rights guaranteed under the Constitution of Pakistan 1973, including Articles 9, 14, 25 and 25-A. Villages such as Ghulam Abad, Umer Daho and Sarhad suffer in particular. Despite the presence of multinational companies and industries, the local population struggles even in this modern era.
Oil and gas companies like OGDCL and Mari Petroleum contribute significantly to Pakistan's energy needs, and Ghotki also hosts a power plant supplying electricity to Sindh and Punjab. Fertiliser giants such as Engro and FFC are also located here. Yet, our villages are denied electricity, health facilities, education and security. In my own village, just 15 km from the power plant, we have had no electricity for three years. When temperatures soar to 50°C in summer, life becomes unbearable. Similarly, despite nearby oil and gas production, villagers cut down trees for fuel, damaging forests and contributing to climate change.
The discharge of hazardous chemicals from industries adds to disease, yet medical care is unavailable. Patients must travel to major cities, which many cannot afford. Alongside this neglect is insecurity; daily crimes such as robbery, dacoity and murder leave people feeling unsafe even in their homes. Those with money and political influence enjoy access to education, health and security, but ordinary citizens remain deprived.
Hundreds of families across villages share the same plight. The government must ensure provision of electricity, education, health and security, so people regain hope and play their part in the nation's prosperity.