Hoor-un-Nisa Palijo
Hoor-un-Nisa Palijo, a prominent political figure and central vice president of the Awami Tehreek, passed away in Karachi at the age of 81 due to respiratory complications. Her death marks the end of a remarkable era of political struggle, social activism, and unwavering commitment to the rights of the oppressed in Sindh and beyond.
A spokesperson for the Awami Tehreek confirmed her passing and announced a three-day mourning period to honor her contributions to the party and the broader progressive movement in Pakistan. Tributes have begun to pour in from across the political spectrum, with colleagues, activists, and civil society groups expressing profound grief and admiration for her legacy.
Hoor-un-Nisa Palijo was not just a political leader—she was a trailblazer for women’s empowerment and resistance politics in Sindh. As one of the founding members of the Sindhyani Tehreek, a women-led political movement, she played a key role in mobilizing rural women and raising their voices against systemic oppression.
Throughout her life, she remained at the forefront of resistance against dictatorial regimes, notably those of General Zia-ul-Haq and General Pervez Musharraf. Her activism during these turbulent times exemplified courage, vision, and dedication to democratic values.
Beyond her political engagements within Pakistan, Hoor-un-Nisa Palijo also represented Sindhi women on international platforms, including in India and the Philippines, where she advocated for gender justice, land rights, and social equity.
She remained a staunch critic of canal-based and corporate farming practices, standing in solidarity with small farmers and laborers impacted by exploitative agricultural systems.
Guided throughout her life by the revolutionary ideology of her father, Rasool Bakhsh Palijo, Hoor-un-Nisa remained committed to the cause of people’s rights and progressive change. Her passing leaves a significant void in Sindh’s socio-political landscape, especially among movements rooted in grassroots activism and feminist resistance.
Both the Awami Tehreek and the Sindhyani Tehreek have expressed deep sorrow over her loss, describing her as a guiding light and a symbol of resilience. Her legacy is expected to inspire future generations of activists and political workers fighting for justice, equality, and dignity.
