THIS is apropos of the HRCP’s new formula concerning the administrative division of Karachi into three districts (Oct 13).  The HRCP has suggested division of Karachi on administrative grounds into three districts, revival of commissioners and deputy commissioners without magisterial powers, retaining of present tiny districts of Hyderabad, Tando Allahyar, Matyari and Tando Mohammad Khan and creating a new division with the name of Benazirabad in which Dadu district is to be incorporated.

The people of Sindh would not accept such a highly controversial formula as the Sindh Assembly has already passed a bill to retain five old districts in Karachi and reunification of Hyderabad district whereas the ruling PPP had already announced that it would make Lyari the sixth district in Karachi.

Under pressure from the MQM, the ruling PPP has kept it on hold through an ordinance. Nonetheless, the magisterial powers to deputy commissioners always facilitate people to get resolved their grievances in view of the past experience, and the HRCP must know this.

The HRCP’s proposals to retain four tiny districts, including Hyderabad, and inclusion of far-flung Dadu with the proposed Benazirabad division are highly regrettable.

This shows they lack the depth and seriousness of the matter. It was highly unjust that Karachi, with a population of 15 million, during the Musharraf regime was retained as one district whereas Hyderabad district was divided into four districts with a population of hardly a half million each. However, our TV anchors are unaware of this fact.

It appears the HRCP has deviated from its original programme.

MOHAMMAD KHAN SIALKarachi