Saraiki Ethnic Identity: Genesis of Conflict with State

The Saraiki, one of the ethnic groups in Pakistan is based on lingual identity. In Pakistan, most of the ethnic groups have their primordial basis and language is an important identity marker. The Saraiki ethnic group also distinguishes itself on the basis of Saraiki language. According to the 1998 Punjab Population Census Report, overall Saraiki speakers constitute 17.4 percent of the Punjab. In rural areas 21.4 percent and in urban areas 8.4 percent people speak Saraiki language (Census Report, 1999, p. 32). Despite the fact that Saraikis have strong regional base, they are not recognized as a distinct ethnic identity. They have rich land resources, even -then the area has remained under developed and people are continuously deprived of various services. It is the most unfortunate fact that sometimes state shows reluctance to recognize specific ethno-lingual identities. This denial becomes a natural cause for ethno-national unrest. At present, apart from Baloch and Mohajirs, Saraikis are also raising voice for their recognition as distinct identity and their due share. The present study will highlight the development of Saraiki political consciousness, nature of the issue, and genesis of conflict with state. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]