ISLAMABAD
After fighting for labour rights for decades, Pakistan Institute of Labour Education and Research (Piler) Executive Director Karamat Ali passed away at the age of 78 in Karachi on Thursday. A family member of the deceased told media that Ali was admitted to a private hospital for treatment of an illness.
The labour rights activist is survived by two daughters and a son, the family member added.
As per the family, Ali’s funeral prayer would be offered after Maghrib prayer at Imambargah Shuhada e Karbala, Ancholi, and he would be laid to rest at Wadi-e-Hussain cemetery on Superhighway.
“A tireless advocate for the working class, his dedication to labour rights and social justice has left an indelible mark on our community,” Piler stated, announcing death of the activist.
Multiple high-profile personalities and organisations expressed condolences over Ali’s demise.
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah prayed for patience of the bereaved family and the departed soul’s elevation in heaven.
Expressing sorrow over the unionist’s death, Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari said he was an asset to the nation and his efforts for labourers’ rights were worthy of being followed. “Karamat Ali’s services will never be forgotten. I pray, may Allah (SWT) grant Karamat Ali maghfirat and bless him with rehmat,” he said.
He condoled the deceased’s family and prayed for their patience. Former president Arif Alvi said on X: “(Ali was) An outstanding labour activist, author, ever smiling and humble man, always engaged with dignity, represented Pakistan in international conferences as a very well informed person to be proud of, was a treasure of knowledge and an embodiment of pain for the struggle of the labour classes.
