January 5, 2006	Thursday	Zilhaj 4, 1426

KARACHI, Jan 4: Muttahida Qaumi Movement chief Altaf Hussain has said that oppressed people must be given their rights otherwise they would not settle for anything less than independent and sovereign states as enshrined in the Lahore Resolution of 1940.

He was talking to a delegation of the UK-based Baloch students led by the National Party leader, Khalid Lango, in London, according to an MQM press release.

Mr Hussain emphasized that rights of the people must be respected, and remarked that the same could not be denied with the might of gun.

“The process of denial of rights to the people steadily undermines the very foundation of the federation,” Mr Hussain said, and assured the delegation that neither he nor his party would compromise on principles, no matter what price they would have to pay. He said that the MQM had raised at all levels its voice against excesses on people and denial of their rights.

The MQM’s stance against bombardment on the innocent Baloch people was based on principles, he said, adding that the rulers had been advised to understand that in the 21st century, voice of the people could not be suppressed through the barrel of the gun.

He demanded an immediate end to the operation in Balochistan and lifting of siege of the affected areas so that the people could move freely and get essential things.

He also demanded that NGOs and his party should be allowed to take relief goods to the affected area.

Mr Khalid Lango thanked the MQM chief for extending his support to the cause of Baloch people, and said his people would never forget the gesture.

Mr Hussain told him that he was not doing a favour to them, but was advocating a just cause based on principles. He asked the delegation to be vigilant and remain united for the restoration of rights and a just dispensation.

On the occasion, fateha for those killed in the ongoing operation was offered.