The Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), originally founded as the Mohajir Qaumi Movement in 1984 by Altaf Hussain, has played a significant role in Pakistan's political landscape, particularly in urban Sindh, where it emerged as a powerful voice for the Urdu-speaking Muhajir community. The party's approach to peace, democracy, law and order, and relations with the state has been complex and multifaceted, often marked by both significant achievements and deep controversies. Here’s a detailed examination of MQM's approach with relevant historical examples:

1. Commitment to Democracy:

MQM has been a vocal advocate for greater political representation of the Muhajir community, which comprises Urdu-speaking immigrants who settled in Pakistan after the partition of India in 1947. The party has participated actively in Pakistan’s democratic processes, particularly in local and national elections, and has often been a kingmaker in coalition governments due to its significant electoral base in Karachi and other urban areas of Sindh.

• Example:
  • Electoral Success in Karachi: MQM has consistently won a large number of seats in the Karachi-based constituencies during both national and provincial elections. For example, in the 1988 general elections, MQM secured a majority of seats in Karachi, which solidified its position as a dominant political force in the city. This electoral success allowed MQM to play a crucial role in forming coalition governments at both the provincial and federal levels, thereby securing political leverage for the Muhajir community.

2. Approach to Peace:

MQM’s approach to peace has been contradictory, as it has advocated for the rights of the Muhajir community and urban development while simultaneously being accused of using violent tactics to maintain control in its strongholds. The party has often called for dialogue and political solutions to address grievances but has also been implicated in numerous incidents of violence and unrest, particularly in Karachi.

• Example:
  • Karachi Violence: Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Karachi witnessed significant violence, much of which was attributed to MQM’s efforts to maintain its political dominance in the city. Clashes between MQM and rival political groups, as well as confrontations with law enforcement agencies, led to numerous deaths and widespread instability. Despite this, MQM’s leadership frequently called for peace and dialogue, particularly when tensions escalated to unmanageable levels. For instance, during the Karachi Operation of 1992, which was launched by the military to curb violence in the city, MQM leaders condemned the operation and called for negotiations, framing the conflict as an issue of political marginalization of the Muhajir community.

3. Involvement in Wars and Military Conflicts:

MQM’s involvement in wars and military conflicts has been limited, as the party primarily focuses on urban issues and the rights of the Muhajir community. However, the party has had significant interactions with Pakistan's military, especially during periods of conflict in Karachi.

• Example:
  • 1992 Karachi Operation: The 1992 military operation in Karachi, known as Operation Clean-up, was aimed at dismantling the militant wing of MQM and restoring law and order in the city. The operation was marked by widespread violence, arrests of MQM activists, and accusations of human rights abuses. MQM responded by going underground and launching protests against what it perceived as state repression. The operation strained relations between MQM and the military, but eventually, the party re-entered mainstream politics, although tensions with security agencies remained.

4. Relations with Neighboring Countries:

MQM’s focus has largely been domestic, particularly concerning the rights of the Muhajir community and urban governance. However, the party has occasionally commented on broader regional issues, particularly in the context of India, given the historical ties of the Muhajir community to India.

• Example:
  • Altaf Hussain’s Statements on India: Altaf Hussain, MQM’s founder and long-time leader, has made controversial statements regarding India, including calls for international intervention in Pakistan and, at times, expressing admiration for Indian democracy. These statements have been viewed with suspicion by the Pakistani establishment and have contributed to the perception of MQM as a party that occasionally deviates from mainstream national narratives on foreign relations. However, these statements have not translated into any formal policy or diplomatic engagement by the party.

5. Respect for Law and Order:

MQM’s record on law and order has been one of the most contentious aspects of its history. While the party has advocated for governance reforms and better urban management in Karachi, it has also been implicated in organized crime, extortion, and targeted killings, which have severely affected law and order in the city.

• Example:
  • Allegations of Criminal Activities: Over the years, MQM has been accused of operating an extensive network of criminal activities in Karachi, including extortion, land grabbing, and targeted killings of political rivals and dissenters. These activities were often linked to the party’s militant wing, which was allegedly involved in enforcing MQM’s control over the city’s political and economic landscape. The party has consistently denied these allegations, claiming that they were politically motivated, but the persistence of such accusations has tainted MQM’s image as a political entity committed to law and order.
  • Rangers Operations in Karachi: In response to escalating violence and criminal activities, the Pakistan Rangers launched several operations in Karachi over the years, particularly targeting MQM’s strongholds. These operations resulted in the arrest of many MQM members and a significant reduction in the party’s influence in the city. The operations were supported by many as necessary for restoring law and order, but MQM and its supporters often criticized them as being politically motivated crackdowns against the Muhajir community.

6. Handling Internal Conflicts:

MQM has often found itself at the center of internal conflicts, particularly in Karachi, where ethnic and political tensions have frequently flared into violence. The party’s approach has typically involved a mix of political negotiation, street mobilization, and, controversially, the use of force.

• Example:
  • Ethnic Clashes in Karachi: Karachi has a long history of ethnic tension, particularly between the Muhajir community represented by MQM and other ethnic groups such as Sindhis, Punjabis, and Pashtuns. MQM has often been involved in these clashes, sometimes acting as a defender of Muhajir rights and at other times being accused of exacerbating tensions for political gain. For instance, during the 1980s and 1990s, Karachi experienced numerous ethnic riots, many of which were linked to the political rivalry between MQM and other groups. MQM’s response was often to mobilize its supporters in large numbers, leading to further confrontations and a cycle of violence that was difficult to break.

7. Civil-Military Relations:

MQM’s relationship with the military has been complex, marked by periods of cooperation and significant conflict. While MQM has occasionally allied with the military establishment, particularly during its early years, the relationship has often soured, especially during military operations against the party.

• Example:
  • Cooperation and Conflict with the Military: In its early years, MQM enjoyed a degree of tacit support from the military, particularly when it was seen as a counterbalance to leftist and Sindhi nationalist movements in urban Sindh. However, this relationship deteriorated over time, particularly as MQM’s militant activities and criminal allegations came under scrutiny. The 1992 Karachi Operation marked a major turning point, leading to a long-standing animosity between MQM and the military establishment. Despite this, MQM has at times sought to realign itself with the military, especially when it suited its political interests, such as during Pervez Musharraf’s regime in the early 2000s.

8. Economic Policy and Urban Development:

MQM has consistently advocated for better urban governance and economic development, particularly in Karachi, which is Pakistan’s largest city and economic hub. The party’s platform has emphasized the need for infrastructure development, public services, and economic opportunities in urban areas.

• Example:
  • Focus on Urban Development: Throughout its political career, MQM has pushed for policies aimed at improving the infrastructure and economic conditions in Karachi and other urban centers of Sindh. The party has called for greater devolution of power to local governments, more investment in urban infrastructure, and fairer distribution of resources. During its time in government, particularly in coalition with other parties, MQM has worked to secure development funds for Karachi, although the effectiveness and distribution of these funds have often been subjects of controversy. For example, the Karachi Development Package announced during various MQM-supported governments aimed at addressing some of the city’s chronic infrastructure problems, though its implementation faced significant challenges.

In summary, the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) has had a significant impact on Pakistan’s political and social landscape, particularly in urban Sindh. The party’s approach to peace and democracy has been characterized by its advocacy for the rights of the Muhajir community and its active participation in electoral politics. However, MQM’s history is also marked by controversy, particularly concerning its involvement in violence, criminal activities, and strained relations with the military. While the party has pushed for urban development and better governance, its methods and the allegations against it have often overshadowed its achievements. The complex legacy of MQM continues to influence the dynamics of Karachi and Pakistan’s broader political landscape.