THERE are reports going around social media claiming that the Sindh government’s culture department has issued notices to the caretakers of Khanabadosh Writer’s Cafe to vacate.

The café, which was set up in 2015, is currently located within the premises of the Sindh Museum in Hyderabad and is the only place in the city which holds literary events such as book launches, readings, poetry recitals, etc., and has hosted several writers from Germany, Britain and US as well.

In Hyderabad, the café has been a haven for women and young people interested in the arts, literature and philosophy. It provided many with a positive and intellectual environment which helped people learn and grow.

It is, therefore, a matter of great concern that the culture department is bent on closing down a place which was established with due permission and mutually agreed upon terms.

On behalf of the citizens of Hyderabad, I would like to draw attention of the Pakistan People’s Party leadership and ask them to investigate what is going on.

Imdad Chandio

Jamshoro

Published in Dawn, July 20th, 2019