A large and diverse coalition of citizens from Ranipur held a massive peaceful sit-in in front of the AC Sobhodero office, protesting against crippling inflation and official apathy. The demonstration, called by the Awami Press Club Ranipur, saw enthusiastic participation from journalists, lawyers, social activists, shopkeepers, and residents from all walks of life. They gathered to voice their collective frustration against the administration’s inaction, which they argue has ignored the severe hardships faced by the public.
Prominent community leaders addressing the protest highlighted the dire situation, stating that skyrocketing prices have made it difficult for people to afford even two daily meals. They strongly condemned the Assistant Commissioner, Shah Rukh Mangnehar, and his staff for allegedly locking the office and disappearing, behavior they labeled as irresponsible and anti-people. The speakers emphasized that such conduct is a blatant dereliction of duty from officials who are meant to serve the public.
The protestors presented a unified list of demands calling for immediate government intervention. Key demands include the issuance of computerized rate lists for all shopkeepers, strict control of inflation, and regular market visits by administration officials. They also insisted on the complete removal of encroachments from the city and the National Highway, a ban on chemically adulterated milk, daily price lists for essential goods, a crackdown on fake medicines, and the restoration of Ranipur’s vegetable market.
Issuing a stern warning, the protest leaders announced that if their demands are not met, they will escalate their movement. A larger sit-in is planned for October 10th in Ranipur, with intentions to expand the protest from Khairpur district to the entire province of Sindh. They concluded with a strong appeal to the Deputy Commissioner, Commissioner, Sindh Chief Secretary, and Chief Minister to take immediate notice of the situation and address the public’s grievances to prevent further deterioration.
