London: The World Sindhi Congress has demanded the right to self-determination for the indigenous people of Sindh saying the Pakistan government is “flagrantly changing the identity, traditions and way of life of Sindhis at gunpoint.”

“In the absence of any constitutional protection, the Sindhis feel that their cultural, social, economic, civil, political and indigenous rights are being violated. Hence, the Sindhis, the indigenous people of Sindh, demand the right to self-determination as per international covenants and conventions,” Dr Munawar A. Halepota, chairman of the World Sindhi Congress said.

Speaking at the 18th session of the United Nations working group on indigenous populations, in Geneva on Wednesday, Halepota alleged that “the government of Pakistan is flagrantly changing the identity, traditions and way of life of the indigenous people of Sindh at gunpoint, without giving any consideration to its domestic and international obligations.”

“In view of the continuing violation of human rights in Sindh, an impartial United Nations fact-finding mission is essential and will be welcomed by the indigenous people of Sindh,” he said.

“We appeal to the international community for their support in our peaceful struggle against the neo-colonization and occupation of our land and massacre of our people,” he said.