Pakistan Peoples Party Lahore President Faisal Mir has strongly emphasized the critical need to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the devastating Data Darbar tragedy in Lahore. Speaking to the media after inspecting the accident scene alongside party leaders Majeed Ghauri, Aziz Abbasi, and Basharat Ali, Mir expressed deep concern over the government's delayed response.
Government Inaction and Delayed Response Criticized
Faisal Mir pointed out that more than 24 hours have passed since the tragedy occurred, yet no minister has visited the scene to assess the situation. He highlighted the discovery of Rida's body after 18 hours as clear proof that the government remained inactive throughout the night, describing it as a period of negligence. Mir stressed that merely suspending one or two officers is insufficient to address the gravity of the incident.
Demand for Legal Action and Increased Surveillance
The PPP Lahore President called for the registration of a case under Section 302 against those found responsible for the tragedy. While acknowledging Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz as a hardworking woman, Mir urged her to enhance surveillance measures to prevent such incidents in the future. He announced plans to personally request Maryam Bibi to visit the site and witness the conditions firsthand.
Community Efforts and Police Cover-Up Allegations
Mir revealed that local residents had taken matters into their own hands by placing an iron sheet over the manhole where the accident occurred, demonstrating community initiative in the absence of official action. He further demanded an investigation into what he described as police attempts to cover up the incident, calling for transparency and accountability in the handling of the case.
PPP Leadership's Commitment to Justice
Faisal Mir assured that the Pakistan Peoples Party would not relent until those responsible for the accident are brought to justice. He stated that Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, Hamza Nawaz, Nawaz Sharif, and Maryam Nawaz must ensure justice for the affected family. The senior PPP leadership plans to visit the family's home in Shorkot to offer support and solidarity.
Majeed Ghauri's Statement on the Tragedy
PPP leader Majeed Ghauri echoed these sentiments, describing the incident not merely as an accident but as a profound tragedy. He affirmed that the PPP leadership stands with the girl and her mother during this hour of grief, emphasizing the party's commitment to sharing the sorrow of those martyred in the Lahore accident.
The PPP's strong stance underscores growing public frustration with administrative failures and highlights the urgent need for improved safety measures and accountability in urban infrastructure management.
