RAWALPINDI: A large torchlight procession was taken out here last evening [May 1] to commemorate the International Labour Day. Local branch of the Pakistan People’s Party, students and various labour organisations took part in the march. The processionists paraded the streets shouting slogans of “Bhutto Zindabad”, “Socialism Zindabad”, “Capitalism Murdabad” and “Mazdoor Ittehad Zindabad”. They also raised slogans in support of the Viet-Namese people and against “American imperialism”.

Student leader Tariq Ali, who is currently on a visit here, also participated in the hour-long rally. He led the procession for some time. The participants of the commemorative march included the Mazdoor-Talaba Action Committee, Mazdoor Muttaheda Mohaz, the two groups of the National Students Federation and trade unions. At two points on the way, Khaksar presented salute to the marchers. The People’s Party leaders, including Mr Khurshid Hasan Meer and Dr Abdul Khaliq, led their workers. On the way the PPP leaders explained to the people over loudspeaker the significance of the May Day. A public meeting was held at the conclusion of the procession … Addressing the meeting, Maulana Kausar Niazi said that May Day was commemorated by the labour because it was the day of “oppressed people’s cry against injustice”. — Agency

Published in Dawn, May 3rd, 2020