Rural Masculinity and Tribal Conflict in Sindh: A Sociological Analysis of Women as Compensation (Sangchatti)

This study explores how rural masculinity contributes to tribal clashes and the practice of offering women as compensation (Sangchatti) in Khairpur district, Sindh. The research was conducted in Khairpur Mir, one of Pakistan's larger districts by population. Data were gathered through structured questionnaires administered to victims' immediate family members—such as parents, brothers, and other close relatives. Using Krejcie and Morgan’s (1970) sampling method, 85 respondents were selected for quantitative analysis, and 7 participants were interviewed for qualitative insights. A proportionate sampling strategy ensured fair representation across all union councils in the district. Descriptive statistics, reliability analysis, and regression techniques were applied using IBM SPSS (Version 25.0) to examine the link between rural masculinity and the Sangchatti practice. The findings reveal that strong patriarchal norms, male dominance, and entrenched social roles significantly influence the continuation of this custom. In ethnically homogenous yet socially polarized Sindhi rural communities, tribal clashes are common, and the exchange of women as compensation has become normalized. The study highlights how gender-based power imbalances are deeply rooted in tribal identity and rural culture, reinforcing systemic inequality and sustaining harmful traditional practices.