PPP Can Demand New Provinces in Punjab — Why Not in Sindh?
Karachi: Karachi division not treason, said Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui while addressing a university event in the city. He stated that demanding new provinces is a constitutional right. He added that the Constitution clearly explains the procedure for creating new administrative units.
He spoke at a laptop distribution ceremony organized by Hyderabad Institute for Technology and Management Sciences (HITMS). Students received certificates and laptops under the Prime Minister’s Youth Laptop Scheme.
Karachi Division Not Treason, MQM Chief Insists
The chairman of MQM-Pakistan said provinces are administrative units. They are not separate states. Therefore, debate on their reorganization should not create controversy.
He questioned why calls for new provinces in Punjab are accepted. However, similar demands in Sindh face criticism. He indirectly referred to the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). He asked why one province can be discussed but not another.
He noted that Pakistan had about 25 million people in 1947. Today, the population exceeds 250 million. Yet, the number of provinces remains the same. According to him, governance structures must evolve with population growth.
Concerns After the 18th Amendment
Khalid Maqbool also spoke about the Eighteenth Amendment to the Constitution of Pakistan. He said the amendment shifted many powers to provinces. However, he argued that several issues remain unresolved.
He raised questions about ghost schools and service delivery. He said Punjab and Sindh are larger than many countries. Because of this size, administration becomes complex.
Moreover, he said the federal government now handles defense and debt payments mainly. Education falls under provincial control. Therefore, provinces must improve planning and adopt modern technology.
Focus on Youth and Skills
He highlighted that 60 percent of Pakistan’s population is young. This, he said, can become a strength. However, it can also turn into a challenge.
He urged authorities to focus on skills instead of only degrees. In addition, he warned that technology will reshape the global economy within 30 years. People without modern skills may struggle to compete.
Therefore, he called for investment in technical education and innovation.
Why This Matters
The debate over administrative reforms affects governance and public services. If leaders revisit provincial structures, it could change political and financial dynamics.
Moreover, youth policy remains central to Pakistan’s future. Skill development can improve employment and economic growth. Therefore, discussions on education and technology carry long-term impact.
What Happens Next
The issue of new provinces requires constitutional procedure and political consensus. Any formal proposal would need parliamentary approval.
In the coming months, political parties may respond to these remarks. The debate could also shape future election campaigns.
FAQs
1. What did Khalid Maqbool say about Karachi?
He said Karachi division not treason and called it a constitutional right.
2. Where did he make the statement?
He spoke at a laptop distribution ceremony organized by HITMS in Karachi.
3. What is his stance on new provinces?
He supports constitutional debate on creating new administrative units.
4. What did he say about the 18th Amendment?
He said powers shifted to provinces but governance issues remain.
5. What message did he give to youth?
He urged young people to gain modern technical skills.
