KARACHI, Jan 18: Speakers at a programme on Sunday evening paid tribute to the slain leader of the Baloch Ittehad Tehrik, Anwar Bhaijan, for his struggle for the uplift of the Baloch people.

The meeting was held at Chawkiwara to mark the fourth death anniversary of Mr Bhaijan, who was shot dead in January 2005.

Describing him as a symbol of unity and peace, the speakers were of the view that gangsters shot him for opposing the gang warfare that continued till recently in the locality. They regretted that the government had made no serious efforts to track down killers of the leader, who had always preached peace and love among the people.

Presided over by BIT chairman Abid Husain Brohi, the meeting was addressed by NP leader Jan Mohammad Buledi, Balochistan National Movement chairman Ghulam Mohammad Baloch, BSO leader Wahid Rahim Baloch, BIT vice-chairman Yusuf Lasi, BIT Punjab chief Danish Baloch, Haji Mohammad Yunis, Nasir Karim, PPP leader Mohabat Khan, Mir Mustafa Gyani and others.

Criticising the present government for pursuing the policies of its predecessors, most of the speakers condemned the ongoing military operation in Balochistan and urged the government to stop the same and recognise the due rights of the Baloch people.

They deplored that Lyari, which is the oldest settlement of Karachi, had been deprived of basic facilities and demanded justice and fair play for the area. They also called upon the Baloch people to forge unity in their ranks and continue their struggle for their legitimate rights.

Demanding that education institutions be established in the locality, several leaders highlighted the need of spreading the message of peace, love and progress for which Anwar Bhaijan laid down his life. They also called upon the people to pay special attention to the technical education to their children because no nation could progress without acquiring modern education.