The Sindh government has launched an inquiry following a social media outcry over paintings originally reported missing from Karachi’s historic Frere Hall that surfaced in a TV drama.
The case attracted significant attention after the drama “Kabhi Mein Kabhi Tum” depicted artworks that had been part of an artist’s thesis exhibition at Frere Hall.
Sindh’s Minister for Culture and Tourism, Syed Zulfiqar Ali Shah, has responded by forming a two-member committee comprised of the Director General of Culture and the Director General of Antiquities. This committee is tasked with thoroughly investigating the missing paintings and will report its findings in detail.
The issue came to light when artist Saifi Soomro from Daharki noticed his artworks, which he reported stolen years ago, appearing in the drama. Soomro, who had displayed his work at Frere Hall as part of his thesis, had been informed at the time that his paintings were stolen.
Read: Seffy Soomro Accuses Pakistani Drama “Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum” of Art Theft
After discovering the artworks in the drama, Soomro took to Facebook to share the ordeal, prompting netizens to advise him to pursue legal action against the entities involved, including the venue where the drama was shot, as his paintings were purportedly still present.
Minister Shah emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing this matter decisively, stating, “We have initiated a comprehensive investigation, and further action will be taken based on the findings. Any negligence or misconduct will be addressed accordingly.” He also highlighted the importance of supporting young artists, recognizing them as vital national assets, and affirmed that no injustice would be tolerated.
The government has assured thorough efforts to resolve the issue, with further measures anticipated upon the conclusion of the investigation.