Responsible state

Man-made disasters such as the collapse of the Sundar Factory in Lahore, or torching of over 289 laborers in Karachi’s Baldia Factory in 2012, or thousands murdered by criminal mafias and terrorists can be prevented if the state performs its role in accordance with the laws and regulations in force. Mere investigations, formation of committees, suspensions etc will not deter the corrupt bureaucracy from criminal negligence, unless exemplary punishments are given. What purpose does the Punjab Industrial Estate office in Sundar located yards away from the factory serve other than being reduced to another job-providing organisation for cronies and retired officers? How can the Sindh police justify its inaction in not arresting those responsible for the Baldia Factory massacre? Can Erra justify its existence with an overstaffed administration of over 600 employees, costing the exchequer Rs1.5 billion annually?
While it is not for the state to do business, it is its responsibility to regulate all commercial activities to ensure that businessmen do not resort to unfair practices, nor do they compromise on the safety of life and property of people. The right of traders to make profit cannot be at the expense of endangering the lives of the citizens of this country.
M T Ali
Lahore