HYDERABAD, Dec 1 The intellectuals of Sindh have called upon the enlightened forces of South Asia to perform a practical role in the struggle for women's rights and to restore their status in the society.

They were speaking at a seminar on the subject of “War and violence have no future - Just peace is the future”, held at the Institute of Sindhology Jamshoro on Sunday night to mark the South Asian Women's day for peace, justice, human rights and democracy.

The function was jointly organised by Women Action Forum and Auratazaad. The speakers said that women's movement in South Asia was the outcome of political and social movements which had given importance to women's rights and also made it a part of their manifestos.

Expressing grave concern over the increase in terrorist activities in South Asia, they said that the elimination of terrorism was a sine qua non for the world peace. They resolved to continue their struggle to eliminate the existence of a state within the state, jirga system and black custom of karo-kari.

They lit earthen lamps before the portrait of Benazir Bhutto to pay homage to her as the strongest woman of South Asia.

Those who spoke at the seminar included veteran leftist leader Jam Saqi, professor Taj Joyo, Ms Akhtar Jabeen Siddiqui, professor Amar Sindhu, Ms Irfana Mallah, Ms Najma Panhwar, Ms Qamar Jehan and others. Professor Maryam Majeedi presided over the meeting. Later, a Mushaira was also held.

STP Condemning bloodshed in Karachi, Sindh Taraqi Passand Party chairman Dr Qadir Magsi has said that it was time for action and not for lip service and demanded that the Sindh government should take practical steps to eliminate terrorism.

He ridiculed the claim of the MQM, ANP and PPP that the massacre of innocent people was a conspiracy against peace and the people of Karachi and wondered why the conspirators were not being exposed.

He said, all the three parties were the coalition partners in the government.