The Human Rights Council of Pakistan protested outside Karachi Press Club, demanding Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab’s immediate resignation and legal action over the Gul Plaza shopping mall fire that tragically claimed at least 60 lives. The fire, which occurred on January 17, sparked public outrage, criticizing the Sindh government and Mayor for delayed response.
The Council, including Chairman Jamshed Hussain, highlighted the fire as not just an accident but a result of criminal negligence by institutions, calling it a severe human rights violation. They emphasized the failure of the Pakistani government system, pointing to the insufficiency of the compensation announced by the Sindh government.
Demanding a thorough investigation committee to identify and legally act against those responsible, the Council urged Karachi Mayor’s resignation for administrative failure. They held the Sindh Building Control Authority and Fire Brigade officers accountable for their lack of preparedness, stressing the need for justice and compensation for affected traders.
The HRC Karachi Division President criticized the SBCA and Fire Brigade for their incompetence leading to the tragedy, urging full financial compensation for traders’ losses and top medical facilities for the injured. The Council warned of expanding protests if justice is not swiftly served to the victims.
