Free health services, education up to matric if MQM wins polls: Altaf

Vows to fight against the culture of Karo-Kari. To boost women representation in government, semi-government offices.

KARACHI/ MIRPUR KHAS: Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) chief Altaf Hussain vowed on Monday that if his party wins the upcoming elections and comes into power, they would make health and education upto matriculation free, Express News reported.

Addressing simultaneous foundation day public rallies in Mirpur Khas and Karachi via telephone, Altaf said they aim to end exploitative feudal system.

Terming the murder of Professor Sibte Jafar as yet another attempt to incite differences among the public along sectarian, he urged the people to remain calm and defeat this conspiracy.

The MQM chief added that in their government, a poor man, if they are unable to hire a lawyer, would be able to fight their own case.

Altaf also promised greater accountability especially for extortionists and terrorists. “Those who have looted the national exchequer, they would be hanged in front of the people.”

He also promised new land reforms where small farmers will be given lands.

Ending Karo-Kari

The MQM chief in his address said that his party will fight against the culture of Karo-Kari.

“Those women who want to marry of their own free will and if someone declares them as karo kari - then such women will be provided shelter at MQM protection centres.”

He added that there will be greater persecution of crimes against women.

“Who so ever will abuse women will be brought in court and sentenced according to the severity of their crime.”

Altaf also vowed to raise the representation of women in governmental and semi-government organisations to 50 percent.