Reflections on the Sindh Partition: Sindhis in Pakistan and India

During the partition of India and Pakistan, the Sindh region saw a significant movement of its inhabitants. While some chose to migrate to India, others stayed behind, creating two distinct communities with varying experiences. The question often arises: do the Sindhis who remained in Pakistan regret their decision? Let's delve into this and explore the stories and perspectives of those affected by the partition.

The Legacy of Sindh: An Ethnic Homeland

Sindh is deeply rooted in the hearts and minds of Sindhis as their ethnic homeland. It is a land with rich cultural heritage and historical significance. The idea that Sindhis who stayed in Pakistan might regret their choice is misplaced. Their attachment to Sindh is not just due to proximity but also through familial ties and a sense of belonging.

It is important to understand that the partition did not come from the inherent animosity between the two nations, but rather from the British Empire's electoral and territorial decisions. Both countries emerged from the same colonial umbrella and share a complex history. The focus should be on the similarities and the shared heritage rather than the differences and past tensions.

The Challenges Faced by Sindhis in Pakistan

While the Sindhis who migrated to India sought to rebuild their lives and are living happily, those who stayed in Pakistan face a different reality. They are often treated as second-class citizens and are subjected to various challenges. Issues such as forced conversions, protection fees, kidnapping, and social exclusion are not uncommon. Despite these difficulties, the majority do not express regret for staying.

One example is my grandfather, who migrated from Patiala to Lahore. He was once the state secretary under Maharaj Patiala, earning a luxurious income. In Pakistan, he faced significant struggles to make ends meet. The significant contrast between the life he left behind and the one he had to rebuild in Pakistan is stark.

Despite the hardships, some Sindhis in Pakistan still have ties to their former life and may experience regrets. My father, for instance, did regret his decision at times, reminiscing about the luxurious life under the Maharaj's rule. However, he and many others realized that it was a necessary and right choice. The complications and challenges that Muslims faced in Pakistan under authoritarian rule and corruption highlighted the need for a different path.

The current political landscape in Pakistan has not helped either. Since the partition, Pakistan has been ruled by corrupt politicians and military regimes, leading to a lack of stability and growth. Despite these challenges, Sindhis who stayed in Pakistan recognized the need to forge a new path and build a better future for themselves and their communities.

Migration and the Future

Today, many Sindhis are migrating to India under various pretexts, finding safer and more stable environments. However, the idea of returning to Pakistan feels distant and, in many cases, unfeasible.

The evidence is clear: the population of Sindhis in Pakistan has drastically reduced. At the time of partition, it was around 20 Hindu and Sindhi families. Today, it is less than 2-3, and many who remain have faced persecution, often being killed or converted to other religions.

It is important to move forward and look at the current state of both countries. Both India and Pakistan are nations with corrupt and self-serving politicians. The focus should be on the opportunities and potential for growth, rather than the past or lingering animosities. It is time for all Indians, including Muslims, to focus on building a better future. I firmly believe that both countries have the potential to thrive and prosper if their inhabitants can set aside past grievances and work towards common goals.

As a Sindhi who has now become a doctor in India, I take great pride in my country. It has provided me with equal opportunities to establish myself and pursue my dreams. While the path to realizing the goal of Pakistan as a pure Islamic state for all Muslims was not fully achieved, the citizens of Pakistan still have the chance to grow and become a strong, united nation.

Ultimately, it is important to acknowledge that despite the challenges faced by the Sindh community, many have made wise choices, both by migrating and staying in Pakistan.