PEOPLE in Sindh are being routinely fleeced by corrupt officials sitting in almost all government departments and offices. Those approaching these various offices for the issuance of sale certificates, registration of properties, or other lawful revenue-related matters are often coerced into paying illegal gratification. In case of refusal, their legitimate work is deliberately delayed or denied on one pretext or the other. This malpractice has become so deeply entrenched that bribery is now treated as an unwritten ‘prerequisite’ for accessing basic legal services.

Sadly, there appears to be no effective mechanism to curb this open exploitation of the public by a well-organised nexus operating within these offices. The common citizen, already burdened by inflation and economic hardship, is left helpless, humiliated and exploited. The government should immediately order comprehensive computerisation of land records, and online issuance of sale certificates and property registration documents. A complete online system for application, tracking and delivery should be introduced, similar to the model successfully implemented in Punjab.

Such reforms will significantly reduce human discretion, enhance transparency, and protect citizens from bribery and corrupt practices. This step will restore public confidence in the government, and will save the people against daily exploit-ation at the hands of corrupt officials. Besides, this will improve governance and image of the provincial government to protect the fundamental rights of people.

Tariq Majeed
Hyderabad

Published in Dawn, May 26th, 2026