Overview
Industrialists in Karachi are raising their voices against the increasing violence and lawlessness in the city. They have called on security authorities to take immediate action to arrest the killers of industrialists and students. If no action is taken within 72 hours, they plan to launch protests, sit-ins, and strikes until peace is restored.
Main Concerns
- Recent Violence: The city has seen a sharp rise in violence, with the deaths of 78 residents, including prominent industrialist Asif Bilwani and several gold medalist students.
- Impact on Business: The poor security situation is hurting economic activities, leading to business closures and capital flight to other countries.
Actions Planned by Industrialists
Press Conference
A press conference was held on Wednesday at the secretariat of the Federal B Area Trade and Industries (FBATI). Representatives from seven industrial zones attended and expressed their frustration over the lawlessness.
- Speakers: Key speakers included Syed Raza Hussain (President, FBATI), Babar Khan (CEO, FITE Development and Management Company), Faisal Moiz Khan (President, North Karachi Association of Trade and Industries), Muhammad Kamran Arbi (President, SITE Association of Industries), Muslim S Mohemadi (Vice President, Korangi Association of Trade and Industries), and Shaheen Serwana (President, SITE Superhighway Association).
Immediate Dialogue
The industrialists plan to hold immediate talks with:
- Inspector General (IG) Sindh
- Director General (DG) Rangers
They are also considering approaching Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir if the situation does not improve.
Demands from Authorities
- Reassignment of Police: They demand that police personnel be removed from the protocol duties of bureaucrats and politicians and reassigned to protect citizens.
- Implementation of Safe City Project: They urge the government to start the Safe City project in Karachi to control security challenges.
- Rangers’ Authority: They suggest granting the Rangers more power to handle street crimes and lawlessness, similar to measures taken in the past.
Specific Issues Raised
Lack of Local Representation
Babar Khan highlighted that local representation in the police has decreased, resulting in a lack of interest in addressing street crime.
Allegations of Police Corruption
- Support for Street Crimes: Some police officials are allegedly supporting street crimes and organized criminal activities.
- Inaction: Key officials like IG Sindh and DG Rangers are not taking sufficient action against these issues.
Business Challenges
The industrialists noted that they were already struggling with:
- High Production Costs
- Lack of Utilities
The deteriorating security situation further adds to their difficulties, making it unsafe for industrialists and their workers.
Calls for Concrete Security Plan
Expectation from Authorities
Faisal Moiz Khan emphasized the need for a concrete security plan from law enforcement to ensure peace across the city, including industrial zones.
- Protest Campaign: If no action is taken, industrialists will start a protest campaign against the concerned departments.
Statements from Industry Leaders
- Syed Raza Hussain (FBATI): He stated that the lawlessness is damaging economic activities and called for immediate action from security authorities.
- Babar Khan (FITE): He mentioned the lack of local police representation and the support for street crimes by some officials.
- Faisal Moiz Khan (NKATI): He warned of a protest campaign if the security situation does not improve.
Conclusion
The industrialists of Karachi are demanding swift action to end the ongoing violence and lawlessness. They are pressing security authorities to make arrests and implement effective measures to restore peace. Failure to do so will result in protests and strikes, reflecting the urgent need for improved security to safeguard businesses and residents in the city.
Table of Contents
Sources: Statements from the press conference by industrial representatives, FBATI, FITE, and NKATI.
