KARACHI: On the 14th anniversary of the Ali Enterprises factory tragedy, the National Trade Union Federation Pakistan (NTUF) and Home-Based Women Workers Federation (HBWWF) held a candle-lighting ceremony outside the factory on Friday. The event paid tribute to the 260 workers who lost their lives in the September 11, 2012 fire.
According to Home-Based Women Workers Federation, labor leaders emphasized that the tragedy was not just an industrial accident but a consequence of a profit-driven system that neglected workers' safety. The fire, which claimed 260 lives, highlighted inadequate safety measures, poor emergency exits, ineffective labor inspections, and a lack of fundamental workers' rights protection. The organizations stressed that responsibility extends beyond local management to global fashion brands that pressure local suppliers for lower costs and faster production.
The labor organizations criticized international fashion brands for inadequate commitments to workers' rights and occupational safety, stating that paper audits and corporate social responsibility claims are insufficient. They called for the active participation of workers and their unions in safety decision-making processes. The tragedy continues to raise questions about who is accountable for workers' safety in industrial settings, as risks persist in various sectors across Pakistan.
The NTUF and HBWWF made several demands, including the implementation of effective occupational health and safety systems, independent labor inspections, accountability of international brands and suppliers, and the ratification of relevant ILO conventions by Pakistan. They emphasized that ensuring no other worker loses their life due to unsafe conditions would be the true tribute to the victims of the Ali Enterprises tragedy.
The ceremony concluded with a symbolic candle lighting in memory of the deceased workers and a renewed commitment to advocating for workers' rights and safety in global supply chains. Key speakers included Rafiq Baloch of NTUF, Zehra Khan of HBWWF, and representatives from various workers' unions.