Karachi census debate.

WHILE the federal cabinet may have approved 2017's national census, the move has resulted in a fresh controversy, as parties with a power base in Karachi protest over the apparent undercounting of the city's population. Strong criticism has also been levelled at the MQM-P, with opponents of the party calling upon the Muttahida to quit the ruling coalition if it disagrees with the census numbers. The MQM had only written a dissenting note against the cabinet's endorsement of the census figures. Strangely, the MQM-P has said it will take to the streets to protest the census results, while adding that it will consult 'the people' on whether or not to quit the ruling coalition. Meanwhile, the Muttahida's opponents - particularly the PSP - have been roasting the party for its apparent flip-flops.

While flawed census results have an impact on the division of resources nationwide, undercounting in Karachi is a particularly sensitive issue, considering the step-motherly treatment the metropolis receives from both the federal and Sindh governments. With the infrastructure in a shambles, no civilised public transport system to speak of and not enough water to meet the needs of its large population, incorrect figures will indeed add to Karachi's already numerous woes. The MQM-P has pointed out that...