Syed Ali Shah Lakyari

Meaneh (مياڻي), an unexcavated archaeological site, is situated in the Nara Desert within Thar, a region of Sindh, Pakistan demonstrably rich in human history. The broader area exhibits a remarkable chronological span of human occupation, evidenced by archaeological sites dating from the Paleolithic, Mesolithic, Neolithic, and Indus Valley Civilization (IVC) periods, alongside remnants of later Hindu and Buddhist influence.

The discovery and systematic documentation of sixty-six Mesolithic sites in the nearby Khairpur Mir’s desert, classified by their lithic assemblages, underscore the archaeological potential of the region. While prominent Sindh sites like Mohenjo-Daro and Amri are intrinsically linked to the Indus River, the presence of many other sites along the Nara Canal (identified as the ancient Hakro) and historical trade routes are not fully explored.

The unique topographical setting of Meaneh, located on the shore of the dried lake, presents an intriguing parallel to the site distribution around Manchar Lake, where a continuum of sites from lithic periods to complex civilizations is observed. However, the Meaneh’s lake history, environmental dynamics and water management strategies for its ancient inhabitants is not clear yet. This is a key factor for future archaeological interpretation.

The initial discovery of Meaneh in 1993 by Mr. Rudolf Dellmour, an Austrian geologist, during OMV company fieldwork, marked its entry into the archaeological consciousness, his initial assessment of the mound as an IVC site was a crucial early identification. The revisiting of the site thirty-two years later, in Ramzan 2025, by a specialized team including Zooarchaeologist Syed Ali Shah (Pakistan), Mr. Garba Roman (Czech Republic). Roman is archaeologist and specializes in dating methods applied in archaeology and geosciences. He is director of ARDUQ (Archaeological landscape and environmental dynamics of Duqm and Nejd) in Oman. The original discoverer geologist Rudolf Dellmour (Austria) guided team to the location for initial assessment of Meaneh. The site’s remote location, approximately 2.5 hours from Khairpur Mir’s and 1.5 hours from Chondiko, on a route connecting Chondiko to Ghotki, emphasizes the logistical challenges and the commitment required for its investigation.

The widespread distribution of pottery shards and bricks on the surface provided diagnostic material. Of particular archaeological significance are the “zigzag-type outer walls resembling bastions, which could indicate defensive architecture or complex civic planning, characteristic of mature IVC urban centers. The presence of fire-baked mud bricks measuring 7x14x28 further reinforces the IVC hypothesis. Sir Rudolf’s claim is particularly strengthened by the identification of black-on-red ware pottery, a hallmark ceramic tradition of the Indus Valley Civilization. While these surface finds provide compelling preliminary evidence, the precise chronological placement and cultural affiliation of Meaneh will ultimately depend on controlled excavation and radiocarbon dating of organic materials, such as charcoal samples. We refrained from surface scraping at the site due to the presence of reptiles; traces of snakes were observed. Therefore, we limited our activities to surveying only. During the survey, we documented the presence of well-type bricks (similar to those used in the wells at Mohenjo-daro), wall bricks, pottery shards, perforated pottery, pottery with depictions of sea creatures, shell fragments, and various stone tools & we found a brick with some markings that we initially thought might be a form of language, but did not make any final determination.

The hypothesis proposed by Mr. Garba Roman regarding the potential destruction or abandonment of Meaneh due climate change landscape aridification draws a parallel with theories surrounding the decline of Mohenjo-Daro

This proposition highlights the critical interplay between environmental factors and human settlement in the arid and semi-arid regions of the Indus Valley. Such environmental hypotheses necessitate palynological studies, sediment analysis, palaeoclimate reconstruction, and geomorphological investigations during future fieldwork research to reconstruct past environmental conditions and their impact on the site’s occupants.

The call for the Sindh Exploration and Adventure Society, in collaboration with their Pak-American team (who have been actively conducting surveys and excavations in Sindh under the supervision of Dr. Kaleemullah Lashari for the past three years), to re-survey and excavate Meaneh is a crucial step for its formal archaeological investigation. Such an undertaking would not only validate the preliminary findings but also significantly contribute to the documented count of IVC sites in the Nara Desert, potentially revealing new insights into regional variations, settlement patterns, the effect of climate change, and the socio-economic organization of this vast ancient civilization. The archaeological excavation of Meaneh holds the promise of expanding our understanding of the Indus Valley Civilization’s spatiotemporal dynamics and adaptability within diverse ecological zones.

Read: Geoarchaeology: Harnessing the Heritage

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Syed Ali Shah completed his BS in Zoology & Masters in Wildlife from Karachi University. After completing the degree work in Karachi Zoo as Research Associate, he did courses in archeology under the supervision of Dr. Jonathan Mark Kenoyer in KPK. He is working as Zoo archaeologist with Dr. Kaleemullah Lashari, Dr. Asma Ibrahim & Dr. Mark Kenoyer at different sites of Indus valley civilization in Sindh and Balochistan.

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Khairpur | Ghotki, Sindh

The Inspection visit of Central Prison & Correctional Facility Khairpur and District Jail Ghotki by Sindh Human Rights Commission (SHRC) officials revealed that majority of inmates are under-trial prisoners languishing there without any legal assistance.

The SHRC in a press release said that its delegation, led by Board-Member Sukhdev Assradas Hemnani along with legal team, visited the Central Prison and Correctional Facility Khairpur and District Jail Ghotki on October 15 and 16, 2024 respectively to assess the living conditions of inmates and overall facilities in the prisons.

Khairpur facility, with the total authorized capacity of 1175 inmates, currently holds 1065 inmates with 744 being under-trail prisoners, one foreigner and 321 convicts while the Ghotki facility is currently holding 294 inmates under-trial inmates against the authorized capacity of total 250 inmates.

Read: Sindh’s 23 prisons have 18440 inmates

Taking cognizance of the need for legal assistance, the SHRC provided advocates/legal assistance to under trial prisoners who could not afford legal representation owing to their financial condition in both Khairpur and Ghotki facilities. Furthermore, Sukhdev Assardas Hemnani ordered the Superintendent/ In-charge of both facilities to immediately process transfer applications of convicts who requested for transfer/shifting to other facilities on humanitarians and medical grounds during the inspection visit.

Taking notice of the frequent load-shedding of electricity and gas for 8-10 hours at night, deplorable conditions of the washrooms and absence of online hearing/trial facility for under trial inmates at District Prison & Correction Facility Ghotki, Hemnani said the Commission would write to the appropriate authorities for immediate redressal of these issues as this directly violates the fundamental rights and welfare of the inmates.

Separately, Hemnani also presided over meetings with district administration and government officials of both Khairpur and Ghotki districts to devise a strategy for addressing the issue of lack of implementation of Sindh Hindus Marriage (Amendment) Act, 2018 in these districts. (PR)

Read: Sindh to Introduce Video Link System in Prisons

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SHOUKAT LOHAR

In a tragic turn of events, a young maid named Fatima lost her life under certain circumstances in a Haveli, the so-called ‘holy mansion’ of Pir of Ranipur, located near Khairpur, Sindh. The incident has shocked the local community and raised questions about the pursuit of justice. Despite the arrest of an alleged culprit, the path to justice appears uncertain.

Death

Fatima, a 10-year-old innocent girl, worked as a maid servant in the Haveli of Pir Asad Shah Jilani of Ranipur. On the fateful day of her demise, her life was abruptly cut short, leaving behind a grieving family and a community searching for answers. The circumstances surrounding her death remain shrouded in mystery, intensifying the need for a thorough investigation.

CCTV Footage

After the crime occurred, a crucial piece of evidence emerged in the form of CCTV footage. This footage became a vital tool in the investigation, providing valuable insights into the events leading up to Fatima’s untimely demise. The video was widely circulated on social media platforms, triggering public outrage and mounting pressure on the authorities to take swift action.

Public Outcry and Police Response

The release of the CCTV footage sparked a wave of public outcry, with citizens demanding justice for Fatima. The video depicted a series of distressing events, suggesting the involvement of an individual in Fatima’s death. In response to the public’s outcry, the police were compelled to take immediate action.

Arrest of the Alleged Culprit

Following the public uproar, the police launched an intensive investigation that led to the arrest of an alleged culprit. The individual in question was subsequently sent behind bars, awaiting trial. The SHO and a doctor have also been taken into custody. The arrests gave some semblance of hope to Fatima’s family and the community, who believed that justice was finally within reach.

The Pursuit of Justice

While the arrest of the alleged culprit offered a glimmer of hope, the pursuit of justice remains mired in uncertainty. The path to justice is often fraught with challenges, such as legal complexities, potential corruption, and delays in the judicial process. Fatima’s family and the community are left grappling with the fear that justice may elude them.

The Importance of a Fair Trial

For justice to prevail, it is imperative that a fair trial is conducted. This includes a thorough investigation, unbiased legal proceedings, and a transparent judicial process. The judiciary must ensure that all evidence is scrutinized meticulously, allowing for a just and impartial verdict.

Community Support and Advocacy

In the wake of Fatima’s tragic death, the local community has rallied together in support of her family, demanding justice and accountability. Activists, human rights organizations, and concerned citizens have taken up the cause, raising awareness and advocating for a fair trial. Their efforts are crucial in keeping this case in the public eye and urging the authorities to stay committed to delivering justice.

Sindh has plunged in lawlessness and misrule which has no ending

Conclusion

The mysterious death of Fatima, an innocent maid, has left a deep scar on the community. As the case unfolds, the pursuit of justice remains uncertain, despite the arrest of an alleged culprit. It is imperative that the legal system ensures a fair trial, where all evidence is meticulously examined, and the truth be found.  Sindh has plunged in lawlessness and misrule which has no ending. It seems there is no law at all. The vocal class urges to the honorable Supreme Court to intervene and get the innocent children rid of this postmodern slavery. We people need to rethink that these wrong numbers have brought wrath upon Sindh. Let’s pledge to unchain their servitude physically and mentally!

Also read: Brutal murder of 10-year-old maid sparks outrages after video goes viral in Pakistan

Read more: Another maid from Asad Shah’s haveli reveals her ordeal

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Shoukat Lohar is Assistant professor in English at Mehran University of Engineering and Technology Jamshoro. He can be reached at Shoukat.ali@faculty.muet.edu.pk

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From Correspondent

Khairpur, Sindh

Three students of Department of Physics & Electronics, Shah Abdul Latif University, Khairpur, who invented the Drone Air Ambulance, displayed at a recently held science expo at the university, met the Vice Chancellor of Shah Abdul Latif University Khairpur.

Asif Ali Rind, Sumaya Bhutto and Tuhfa-tun-Nisa, Students of Department of Physics & Electronics, were introduced to the Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Khalil Ahmed Ibupoto at Vice Chancellor Secretariat.

Prof. Dr. Farman Ali Mangi, Chairman Department of Physics & Electronics, briefed the Vice Chancellor that the Drone Air Ambulance will be helpful for the flood affected people. “In the occurrence of flood havoc, the Air ambulance drones can save people’s lives, livestock, monitoring of crops during the flood and heavy rain,” he said.

“Keeping in view this calamity, and disaster, the students of the Department embarked this research work to develop a new innovative model of drone which can be used for several applications, such as the transportation of medicine from one place to another place at least 2-3 Kg, monitoring flood affected areas, recording video and footages from impassable, affected areas and identify the flood affected locations٫ inspection of affected crops٫ livestock in flood affected areas,” he told.

Prof. Dr. Taj Muhammad Lashari, Dean Faculty of Social Sciences, Dr. Ali Raza Lashari, Zohaib Shafqat Memon and others were present.

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From Correspondent   

Khairpur, Sindh

Taking notice of the high prices of edible oil being charged by the shopkeepers from the citizens, Assistant Commissioner Khairpur and officials of the Bureau of Supply & Prices Department and Market Committee paid surprise visit of the market on Saturday.

During the visit, they warned to the wholesalers and retailers of cooking oil of sealing their shops if they charged exorbitant prices.

During the visit to the markets, Assistant Commissioner Khairpur Arslan Hyder Phulpoto inquired from the citizens who registered complaints of the charging of more rates of cooking oil by the shopkeepers. He got them back the extra charged amount and warned shopkeepers of registering FIRs against them if they did not implement the prices of the edible oil fixed by the government.

AC Khairpur also paid surprise visit to the Civil Hospital Khairpur where a patient complained that he is not being provided the ambulance to shift dead body of a loved one.

AC Khairpur immediately provided him ambulance from Edhi Ambulance Service and asked from the duty doctor about the details of the ambulances, who could not properly brief him.

AC Khairpur later took up the issue with Deputy Commissioner Khairpur and officials of the health department.

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From Correspondent

Khairpur, Sindh

Prof. Dr. Khalil Ahmed Ibupoto, Vice Chancellor, Shah Abdul Latif University (SALU), Khairpur has assigned the additional charge of Registrar of the University to Prof. Dr. Minhoon Khan Laghari, Director Institute of Business Administration, SALU till the appointment of full time Registrar.

Dr. Laghari possesses vast academic, research and administrative experience. He is the pioneer of the Institute of Business Administration in term of its infrastructure, academic facilities, research and academic discipline.

Previously, Mureed Hussain Ibupoto held the additional charge of Registrar since August 2020.

Sources in the university said that teachers, officers’ association, employees’ association and students of the university in their protest rallies and sit-ins had been demanding the removal of the Registrar, however Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Khalil Ahmed Ibupoto didn’t pay heed to their protests because of having close relationship with the former Registrar.

According to sources Mureed Hussain Ibupoto exercised vast power and got posted and removed any official from the posts.

Sources however said that differences between the Vice Chancellor and Registrar developed over the appointment of the Assistant Professors, Associate Professors, Lecturers and Professors.

The teachers’ community of university was unhappy with the situation and wanted any officer posted as Registrar amongst them. In this regard they had exerted pressure on the Vice Chancellor to accept their demand.

Sources said that Vice Chancellor, before removing Mureed Hussain Ibupoto, had conveyed him a message that he is not happy with his performance and arrogant attitude towards teachers and officers, but Mureed Hussain in his reply told Vice Chancellor that he handled many issues and it’s not a solid reason for removing him from the post of Registrar.

Meanwhile, Prof. Dr. Taj Muhammad Lashari,Director, Media & Public Relations Shah Abdul Latif University, Khairpur said that Mureed Hussain Ibupoto had additional charge of Registrar of SALU Khairpur who now has been directed to continue as Additional Controller Examination.

He said that Vice Chancellor has powers to assign the charge of Registrar to any official till the appointment of the regular Registrar by the Chancellor of the Universities. He dismissed the differences between the VC and former Registrar.

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From Correspondent

Khairpur, Sindh

The people of Fatehpur locality of Khairpur demanded justice and legal action against the Land Mafia and their accomplices who fraudulently sale out their lands to illegal Afghan refugees and other aliens.

Residents of Fatehpur – Ghos Bakhsh Thebo, Ghulam Shabbir, Imam Dino, Anwar Ali, Ghulam Murtaza Thebo and others in a press conference at the press club Khairpur said on Friday that 100 acres of their inherited land in Deh Wassan of Khairpur was manipulatively sold out to the Afghanis – Hazrat Noor and Muhammad Idris by the revenue official (Patwari) Mushtaq Lanjwani and then Assistant Commissioner Khairpur Safdar Hussain Mirani.

They said that this land was registered in the revenue record in the names of their ancestors late Allah Dino Thebo, Khanwand Dino, Nibaho, Darhoon, Dodo and others and in the form Seven entries of their ancestors existed.

They said that Patwari and then the Assistant Commissioner fraudulently transferred their lands against the bribe in the names of the Afghani Hazrat Noor Khan.

They said that they challenged such fraudulent documents of the sale deed in the Civil Court which gave decision in their favor but despite the rejection of the fake entries by the court, the revenue department is not maintaining their original entries of the survey numbers 591, 761, 762, 1115, 502, 480, and others in the revenue record.

They alleged that more than 200 acres of government land has also been illegally possessed by Hazrat Noor.

They have also occupied several acres of communication path and built fish farm.

They said that some department officials despite of the court decision and evidences, do not take action against the Mafia.

The residents of Fatehpur said that the Deputy Commissioner Khairpur had ordered the concerned revenue officials to cancel the fake entry of survey number 296 and 297 of Deh Wassan but they are still deprived of their land.

They demanded from Sindh High Court, Chief Minister of Sindh, Provincial Minister for Revenue Sindh, Commissioner Sukkur to provide them justice and also take legal action against the land mafia and their accomplices and the original account holders should be given their right.

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From Correspondent

Khairpur, Sindh

The administration has started destroying the paddy crop cultivated certain areas of the Khairpur district in violation of the ban imposed by the government.

In Khairpur Taluka, paddy cultivation was reported on around one hundred acres, of which paddy crop over ten acres was spoiled by spraying chemical on it.

The provincial government had recently imposed the ban on paddy cultivation. On May 8, 2023, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah and Federal Minister for Water Syed Khursheed Shah had discussed the waterlogging and increasing water table issues along the left bank of the River Indus in the post-flood scenario and decided to impose ban on paddy cultivation, as otherwise lands would be devastated.

Following such a decision, Assistant Commissioner Khairpur Arslan Hyder Phulpoto along with Assistant Mukhtiarkar and revenue collectors (Patwaris) launched the drive on Monday and destroyed paddy crop in different areas of Khairpur including Shadi Shaheed, Bhurgri and other areas.

Assistant Commissioner Khairpur also held meeting with revenue officials and directed them to spoil the paddy crops in their respective areas.

He said that there was a ban on the paddy crop in Khairpur and in this regard Deputy Commissioner Khairpur has strictly directed him to get implement the ban on paddy cropping.

He directed them to summit report regarding the paddy cropping and register FIRs against the growers who are violating the 144 Cr. P. C.

He also warned the revenue staff of departmental action if any of them was found involved in the paddy cropping with the growers and concealing the details.

He ordered Assistant Mukhtiarkar conduct surprise visits and to act on complaints registered by the citizens regarding the cultivation of paddy.

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From Correspondent

Khairpur, Sindh

A dispute between Municipal Committee Khairpur and a private land owner over the water supply lines near Khaki Shah Pul (Bridge) of Khairpur was resolved on Saturday.

Assistant Commissioner Khairpur Arslan Hyder Phulpoto said that the demarcation of the land was carried out on request of Municipal Committee and on the directions of Deputy Commissioner Khairpur, the Survey and Revenue departments did the job under his supervision.

He said that the process of demarcation was witnessed by representatives of Municipal Committee Khairpur, Irrigation Department, Public Health Department and private land owner.

He said that drive to remove illegal encroachment from the Khairpur city was also in progress.

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From Correspondent

Khairpur, Sindh

HIV Screening Camp and Awareness Session was held at Shah Abdul Latif University, Khairpur on Thursday.

The camp was organized by the Directorate General Health Services Sindh, Communicable Diseases Control (CDC) HIV/AIDS, Nai Zindagi Trust and Health & Hygiene Society SALU.

Prof. Dr. Taj Muhammad Lashari, Dean Faculty of Social Sciences while talking to the participants, said that the cases of HIV/AIDS are increasing so there is need to sensitize the society regarding this disease. He said our students are ambassadors of society, and they will aware the community about its consequences.

Dr. Ghous Bux Malik, Coordination Manager Nai Zindagi Trust briefed about the spreading of HIV/AIDS. He said that the sex workers are highly vulnerable in the society.

He said that reuse of syringe, blood transfusion, use of used razor, dentist’s instruments and quacks are the main causes of spreading of HIV.

He stressed the need for its prevention by using tested blood transfusion, use of new syringe, blade or razor.

Dr. Sher Khan Junejo, Deputy Director Communicable Diseases Control-I Sindh said that currently 18 testing and treatment centers and labs are working in the public and private sector across the Sindh province for providing free screening test facility, treatment and medicines of HIV.

He said this awareness session will be result oriented because a large number of students and staff have participated. They will sensitize the community at large.

Dr. Falak Sher Sahito, Assistant District Health Officer, Khairpur also shared his views on the theme.

Dr. Ali Raza Lashari, In-charge Students Societies Center said that Students Society center playing its pivotal role in the counselling of the students in different issues and organizing the multiple events to promote the education and also to discuss the social issues.

During the 84 staff and students were tested. The results of these tests remain negative. A large number of staff and students attended the session.

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