KARACHI: The Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) on Wednesday called for an indefinite shutdown of business and commerce as part of its “peaceful protest” in Sindh and especially in Karachi over the government's inaction to arrest and prosecute the perpetrators of the recent bombing in Abbas Town.

Addressing reporters at a press conference, MQM leader Raza Haroon appealed that businesses and public transport remain shut in the city until those responsible for the attack were taken to task. This is the first time in many years that MQM has given a call of such indefinite closure of business in Karachi.

Justifying the move, Haroon said his party had no other way but to launch a “peaceful, democratic protest” against the government's failure to act in the wake of the tragedy which claimed at least 48 lives.

He said it was futile to expect the government to act and added that the protest would continue until action was taken against those responsible.

The MQM leader said the government had left the people of Karachi to fend for themselves, adding that people would have to display exemplary unity in the situation.

There was a mixed reaction in the trader and business community with at least one organisation announcing its support for MQM’s call for indefinite shutdown, and others saying they were weighing the options.

A spokesman for the Pakistan People’s Party described the shutdown decision as unfortunate, and appealed to the MQM to review its decision in the interest of trade and business in the country’s biggest industrial city.

In a related development a spokesman for the association of private schools announced closure of all privately-run schools in Karachi until further notice.