KARACHI, June 5: Sindh chapter of the Alliance for the Restoration of Democracy (ARD), on Thursday, expressed concern over the prevailing political situation and blamed the government for sabotaging the process of negotiations on the LFO and other issues.

The meeting, held at the residence of leader of opposition in Sindh assembly, Nisar Khuhro, warned the government that if it tried to gag the voice of dissent in the manner it did in Punjab, it would face grave consequences inside and outside the Parliament.

The meeting made it clear that opposition was in favour of resolving all issues through dialogue, both inside and outside the assembly, but would not succumb to the government’s pressure and strong arm tactics.

The meeting also demanded resignation of the Punjab chief minister and speaker of the provincial assembly for maltreating elected representatives. The participants also demanded that a high-level commission should be instituted to investigate the matter.

Consensus emerged at the meeting that the government was not tolerant of opposition and was trying to prolong its rule, which had been imposed on the people by removing the elected government on Oct 12, 1999.

The ARD meeting resolved to continue struggle for the supremacy of the 1973 Constitution.

The meeting also expressed concern over deteriorating law and order situation in Sindh and also demanded action against government officials for their alleged negligence, owing to which several people died in Kheenjar lake tragedy.