Karamat Ali, a stalwart advocate for labour rights and the Executive Director of the Pakistan Institute of Labour Education and Research (Piler) died at 78 in Karachi.
It was informed by a family member that Ali had been receiving treatment for an illness in a private hospital. He leaves behind two daughters and a son.
His funeral will be held after the Maghrib prayer at Imambargah Shuhada e Karbala, Ancholi, and he will be buried at Wadi-e-Hussain cemetery on the Superhighway.
Piler commemorated Ali as a relentless champion for workers’ rights and social justice. Numerous prominent figures and organizations offered condolences.
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah offered prayers for the family and Ali’s soul.
Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari praised Ali’s national contributions and dedication to laborers’ rights.
“Karamat Ali’s contributions will always be remembered. May Allah grant him mercy and blessings,” he stated.
Former president Arif Alvi lauded Ali’s impact on labour rights and the international representation of Pakistan.
Zafar Mirza, former state minister for health, expressed deep personal loss, describing Ali as a cherished friend and comrade.
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) acknowledged Ali’s irreplaceable role in Pakistan and South Asia labour advocacy.
“Ali’s work spanned decades, promoting rights for various worker groups and championing collective bargaining and social security,” HRCP posted.
According to Piler, Ali was pivotal in founding the organization and other peace and labour movements, including regional and global platforms.
Ali’s extensive writings and advocacy played a crucial role in fostering peace, particularly between Pakistan and India.
He received several awards, including the Didi Nirmala Deshpandae South Asian Award for Peace and Justice in 2013 and the Bulleh Shah Award in 2007.
