Are Demands for Karachi Mayor's Resignation Growing After the Gul Plaza Fire That Claimed 60 Lives?
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Synopsis
In the wake of a tragic fire at Gul Plaza that took 60 lives, the Human Rights Council of Pakistan is demanding the resignation of Karachi's Mayor and calling for accountability. With public outrage boiling over, the HRC insists on thorough investigations and adequate compensation for victims and their families, warning of escalating protests if justice is not served.
Key Takeaways
- Human Rights Council protests for justice after the Gul Plaza fire.
- Mayor Murtaza Wahab facing calls for resignation.
- Public outrage directed at the Sindh government for delayed response.
- Compensation deemed insufficient for victims' families.
- Demand for accountability from SBCA and Fire Brigade officials.
Islamabad, Jan 22 (NationPress) The Human Rights Council (HRC) of Pakistan organized a demonstration outside the Karachi Press Club, calling for the immediate resignation of Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab and rigorous legal measures against those accountable for the devastating fire at Gul Plaza shopping mall, which resulted in the deaths of at least 60 individuals and numerous injuries.
The extensive blaze that broke out at Gul Plaza on the evening of January 17 incited public fury, with citizens criticizing the Sindh government and the Karachi Mayor for their sluggish response.
Members of the rights organization, including several men, women, and children, participated in the protests, with the Chairman of the HRC, Jamshed Hussain, joining the demonstrators.
During the protest, Chairman Hussain stated that the tragic incident at Gul Plaza “is not merely an accident, but is indicative of criminal negligence by the relevant authorities and a severe violation of human rights.”
He highlighted that the loss of more than 60 lives and the disappearance of numerous individuals serve as stark evidence of the failures within the Pakistani governmental system.
The Council underscored that the compensation of one crore Pakistani rupees for each victim, as announced by the Sindh provincial government, is “woefully inadequate.”
They called for the establishment of a comprehensive investigation committee to ensure accountability, rather than a superficial inquiry that fails to identify those responsible and does not result in genuine legal action.
“The Mayor of Karachi must take moral responsibility for the administrative shortcomings in the city and the inefficacy of the fire brigade by resigning immediately,” asserted the HRC.
The organization emphasized that the officials from the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) and Fire Brigade, whose lack of readiness and negligence contributed to the tragic loss of lives, should be held accountable.
The President of HRC Karachi Division, Bashir Daras, remarked that “the incompetence of the SBCA and the Fire Brigade has led to this catastrophe.” He demanded full financial restitution for the vast losses incurred by affected traders and insisted that the injured receive the highest quality medical care at the expense of the government.
The HRC of Pakistan cautioned that if prompt justice is not delivered to the victims, the protests will escalate further.
Point of View
It is essential to acknowledge the gravity of the situation surrounding the Gul Plaza fire. The demands for accountability and justice by the Human Rights Council reflect a growing sentiment among the public regarding the need for responsible governance. This incident underscores systemic failures that must be addressed to prevent future tragedies.
NationPress
22/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened at Gul Plaza?
A massive fire broke out at Gul Plaza on January 17, resulting in the deaths of at least 60 individuals and numerous injuries.
Why are protesters demanding the Mayor's resignation?
Protesters believe that the Mayor's delayed action in response to the fire and overall incompetence in handling fire safety led to the tragedy.
What compensation has been offered to the victims' families?
The Sindh provincial government announced compensation of one crore Pakistani rupees per victim, which many consider inadequate.
What actions are being demanded by the Human Rights Council?
The HRC is demanding the Mayor's resignation, a thorough investigation into the incident, and accountability for officials from the SBCA and Fire Brigade.
What are the possible outcomes if justice is not served?
The HRC has warned that protests will escalate if immediate justice is not provided to the victims and their families.
