IN a move ostensibly to provide quick and easy justice to the common man, the Sindh government has launched the ‘khuli kachehri’ initiative in the rural areas of the province. Apparently, it seems to be a sincere effort for public welfare, but it basically serves no purpose owing to the feudal setup that has been for long subjugating the people who are no more than modern-day slaves for feudal lords.

A khuli kachehri refers to an open public hearing where citizens can voice their grievances and concerns directly to senior officials for the resolution of issues, thereby fostering transparency. The primary objective of such a hearing is to facilitate direct public engagement and expedite problem-solving. On the instructions of the Sindh government, public hearings are conducted in every district of the province to identify the most effective solutions, and to ensure that all pertinent authorities are involved in addressing public issues.

Recently, a public hearing took place in Sujawal to address the challenges faced by the local residents. This public hearing, organised by the district government at a community hall, featured all Sindh ministers, ruling party representatives, stakeholders, provincial and local representatives, as well as a lot of district administration and police officials. The public hearing commenced smoothly and attracted a significantly large number of attendees.

At one point, an individual began to talk about the illegal occupation of his agricultural land by a powerful local landlord. As he started to share his plight, he was violently assaulted and beaten up by those supporting that so-called influential landlord. They thrashed him using chairs, and shouted at him. This forced the people to run for safety, saving themselves from the naked aggression of the violent goons attacking the poor man.

This rather tragic incident unfolded in the presence of everybody who matters in the provincial hierarchy. This was truly disheartening. All these individuals immediately left the spot, and were escorted by police to their vehicles. They did nothing to control the situation and protect the citizens from trouble.

Is it not regrettable that an innocent citizen was mistreated and attacked in broad daylight in the presence of govern-ment officials who are supposed to protect the citizens from criminals and their henchmen? The incident has sparked a wave of anger and frustration among the residents of Sujawal and its neighbouring areas. But this is not only about this particular area. This is a malaise the entire province is suffering from.

In the wake of the incident, a procession was organised by members of the civil society of Sujawal at a public park to protest against the mistreatment and intimidation of citizens. They called for the government to take decisive action against the local landlord who has political backing, and the district administration for its failure to act against the violent offenders. As expected, the protest has led to nothing.

The nexus between local political figures and district government officials must be addressed by those who have the power to do so. This must be done to ensure that local residents are safe from the threats of violence and intimidation posed by local authorities and landlords.

I wonder what purpose such public hearings serve when we have savages in society who are deemed above the law.

Dr Ashraf Ali Jafrani
Sujawal

Published in Dawn, January 13th, 2026