Senators demand accountability

ISLAMABAD:

The upper house of parliament witnessed a heated debate on Monday over the devastating fire at Gul Plaza, with senators describing it as an incident of criminal negligence and demanding accountability from the Sindh government.

During the session, chaired by Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani, the Karachi tragedy, which claimed more than two dozen lives and left over 80 people missing, sparked urgent discussions on safety, governance, and compensation for victims.

Senator Khalida Ateeb of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), speaking on a point of order, held the Sindh government responsible for the incident. "This session should have been dedicated to addressing the Karachi tragedy," she told the house.

Highlighting recurring disasters in the city, she questioned which authority had approved the Gul Plaza building and criticised the government for presenting its performance at the federal level while ignoring safety lapses at commercial hubs.

Ateeb noted previous incidents, including one at RJ Mall, stressing that Karachi's major commercial centres, which contribute significantly to tax revenues, often lack proper safety arrangements.

She recalled the past bombing in Bolton Market, where miscreants had set shops ablaze, and emphasised that financial compensation cannot replace the loss of lives, despite the Sindh government's promise to cover damages.

Senator Sherry Rehman described the incident as deeply tragic, noting that delays in fire brigade response had worsened the situation. She confirmed that the Sindh Chief Minister had announced Rs10 million in compensation for each deceased individual's family and had formed a committee to inspect all commercial malls. "The tragedy should serve as a lesson rather than a political issue," she stressed.

Senator Ali Zafar of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) highlighted the link between corruption and disaster, citing a Supreme Court inquiry into Karachi's building authorities. He argued that corruption renders safety laws ineffective, leaving commercial structures vulnerable.

Senator Waqar Mehdi of the PPP described the Gul Plaza fire as catastrophic, while assuring that the Sindh government would provide comprehensive support to all victims. Senator Kamran Murtaza added that such incidents are not limited to Karachi but are a national concern affecting other parts of the country as well.

Heated exchanges

The session also saw issues of decorum and accountability in parliament. Senator Palwasha Muhammad Zai raised the inappropriate language used by Federal Communications Minister Aleem Khan, which was condemned by Sherry Rehman. She demanded that Aleem Khan formally apologise in the house, stressing that house committees must remain professional and focused on governance rather than personal attacks.

Senators Samina Mumtaz Zahri echoed those concerns about decorum, emphasising that such incidents are regrettable and should not recur. A heated exchange also took place between Abid Sher Ali and Mishaal Yousafzai, reflecting broader concerns over conduct in committees.

Awami National Party Senator Aimal Wali Khan called for immediate relief for residents affected by ongoing military operations in Tirah, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He criticised the federal government's inaction and the provincial government's resistance, warning that the displaced population remains vulnerable. He also urged the provincial leadership to resign if it cannot effectively address the crisis.

Despite tensions, the house passed a series of important bills. PPP Senator Shahadat Awan presented the Pakistan Nursing Council and Pakistan Medical and Dental Council Amendment Bills 2024. Both bills were approved without opposition following clause-by-clause voting.

Other legislation, including the Anti-Narcotics and Expulsion of Foreign Nationals Bills, the Mental Health Amendment Bill, the Provincial Motor Vehicle Amendment Bill 2025, and the Civil Servants Act and Federal Oversight Amendment Bills, was also passed unanimously.