Karachi, The Pasban Democratic Party (PDP) has emphasized the need for enhanced protection and a better environment for industrialists in Karachi, citing their critical role in the country’s economy. The party called for necessary reforms to ensure the continuation of industrial activities, which are vital for national development.
According to Pasban Democratic Party, General Secretary Iqbal Hashmi highlighted the challenges faced by industrialists in Karachi. He stressed that industrialists, being the backbone of the economy, require full protection from extortionists, criminals, and kidnappers. The party urged for the provision of a peaceful environment in industrial areas, along with uninterrupted electricity and gas supply.
Hashmi pointed out that the efficiency of the police must be improved to prevent incidents of looting, terrorism, and kidnapping in the city. He argued that establishing law and order in Karachi is impossible without reforming the police system. The PDP advocates for merit-based appointments in the police department, from rank-and-file policemen to senior officers, instead of political appointments.
The statement issued by Pasban’s Press Information Cell indicated concern over the prevailing situation in the city, suggesting that the government has left people, businessmen, and industrialists at the mercy of extortionists, robbers, and kidnappers. Despite the heavy presence of Rangers and police, there is an atmosphere of fear and perceived incompetence of the government.
The PDP noted that due to street crimes, target killings, and extortion, industrialists are either shutting down their operations or relocating. This trend is also causing a decline in investment. Additionally, the burden of taxes on the industrial sector and the increase in petroleum products are hindering industrial development, leading to a rise in unemployment and consequently more crimes.
Highlighting Karachi’s role as the economic hub of the country, Hashmi warned that if the situation does not improve, the city could face significant economic setbacks. This would lead to the relocation of capital and job opportunities to other cities and countries, posing severe challenges for the youth.
The Pasban Democratic Party’s statement underscores the urgency for effective governance and law enforcement reforms to safeguard the interests of Karachi’s industrial sector and its contribution to the national economy.
Karachi, Dr. Fawzia Siddiqui, representing the Aafia Movement, has expressed deep concern over the national leadership’s indifference to the plight of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, who has been imprisoned for 20 years. The matter has been symbolically presented to a higher authority for justice.
According to Aafia Movement, during a meeting with the central spokesperson of Jamiat Ulema Islam (F) Muhammad Aslam Ghori and Naib Amir of Sindh province Maulana Abdul Karim Abid, Dr. Fawzia Siddiqui criticized the political leadership’s failure in securing Aafia’s return to Pakistan. She highlighted that the national leadership should be prepared to answer for their inaction.
Muhammad Ayub, the spokesperson and coordinator of the Aafia Movement, expressed anguish over the lack of condemnation from national leaders following revelations of sexual harassment and torture against Dr. Aafia Siddiqui in prison. Last month, Dr. Aafia’s lawyer, Clive Stafford Smith, disclosed in an interview with a private TV channel that Dr. Aafia had faced repeated sexual harassment and torture by prison officials and inmates.
The delegation of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam, visiting on instructions from Maulana Fazlur Rehman, conveyed their dismay over Dr. Aafia’s prolonged imprisonment. They condemned the reports of torture and rape she endured in prison and assured Dr. Fauzia Siddiqui of their full cooperation until Aafia’s release and return to Pakistan. The delegation also acknowledged and thanked Senator Talha Mehmood for his visit to the U.S. to meet Dr. Aafia Siddiqui.
The Aafia Movement’s statement underscores the gravity of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s situation and the perceived lack of effective response from Pakistan’s national leaders. The case continues to evoke strong reactions and demands for action within Pakistan and from international human rights groups.