KARACHI: Families of victims and labour rights activists came together once again on September 11 to honor the memory of the 260 workers who lost their lives in the Baldia factory fire, one of Pakistan’s deadliest industrial disasters.
As part of the annual remembrance, candles were lit in tribute to the martyrs, and participants renewed their pledge to continue the struggle for workers’ rights. However, due to heavy rainfall, organisers announced that the main memorial event would now take place on September 28.
Hasna Khatoon, chairperson of the Baldia Factory Fire Affectees Association, criticised the demolition of the Ali Enterprises building where the tragedy struck in 2012 calling it an attempt to erase a painful reminder. “This remains the darkest chapter in our industrial history. They may have demolished the factory, but workers cannot forget. The blood of our martyrs will continue to inspire the fight for justice and dignity,” she said.
Speaking at the gathering, Comrade Zehra Khan, General Secretary of the Home-Based Women Workers Federation, denounced the Sindh Labour Code as a “suicidal attack on labour rights.” She accused the provincial government of rolling back protections introduced by PPP founder Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and alleged that the International Labour Organization (ILO) was complicit in promoting a contractor-driven system that undermines workers. “We will resist this anti-labour conspiracy with full force,” she vowed.
Demands raised at the memorial included a public apology from German brand KIK, which sourced from the factory, and assurances that all supplier units in Pakistan comply with national labour laws. Activists also called for a permanent memorial for the Baldia martyrs, the establishment of a health and safety awareness centre at the site, full disclosure of the ILO’s insurance agreement with victims’ associations, and the formation of an oversight body to monitor workplace safety.
For families of the victims, the annual remembrance is not just about mourning but about holding institutions accountable. As one participant put it, “Our loved ones died because profit was put above safety. Until real reforms happen, their sacrifice will not be in vain.”
