MR ALTAF HUSSAIN’S CONVERSATION WITH SARDAR ATAULLAH MENGAL

London – 2 August 2004
The MQM leader Mr Altaf Hussain expressed his sympathises with the Balochistan National party leader Sardar Ataullah Mengal on the death and mayhem of innocent people of Balochistan.  Sardar Mengal briefed him about the damage done by the military operation in Turbat, Koghloo, Makran, Chaman and other areas of Balochistan.  The indiscriminate bombing of the province has played havoc with the life and property of innocent citizens.  Mr Hussain expressed his dismay that like Sindh province the people of Balochistan are also targeted and a 1973 style operation is being carried out because like Sindhis, Baloch are demanding their fundamental rights.  He pointed out that suppression by force is not the answer and certainly not in the best interest of the country.  It is essential that a dialogue takes place with all the smaller provinces to resolve their grievances.  Mr Hussain said that he couldn’t sit as a silent spectator while military continue is to inflict atrocities upon innocent people of Balochistan. He expressed his heart-felt condolences with the bereaved families and asked Sardar Mengal to convey his sympathies with the affected people of Balochistan.