KARACHI: Commissioner Syed Hassan Naqvi has inaugurated a library that has been established in a historical building known as Police Chowki in Kharadar, the oldest locality of the city.

The library was set up jointly by the district administration South and community members. The 100-year-old building, previously used as a police station, had remained neglected and abandoned for years.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including architect Yasmeen Lari, Deputy Commissioner Altaf Sario, Assistant Commissioner Muntaha Azhar, senior police officers, community leaders, and architects.

Commissioner Naqvi said the library will benefit the local community, particularly children and students. He said the establishment of the library aligned with Sindh government’s efforts to preserve historical buildings in the city.

“We are committed to providing better recreational facilities and promoting reading activities,” he added. The library’s maintenance will be a community-driven effort.

He said a committee, headed by the assistant commissioner and formed by the deputy commissioner, will oversee the upkeep and improvement of facilities for visitors and book enthusiasts.

Surge in complaints of human rights violations

The commissioner was recently informed about an increase in complaints of human rights violation in the metropolis.

The complaints include child and women abductions, acid attacks on women, suicides, murders and sexual assaults on girls aged 3 and 8, said the Sindh human rights department at a review meeting chaired by the commissioner.

The meeting was attended by Human Rights Secretary Tehsin Fatima, all deputy commissioners (DCs), all SSPs and other officials.

It was decided that the human rights department would be provided with all possible information to effectively implement the government’s policy and efforts to protect people’s rights in Karachi.

Three committees will be established in all seven districts of Karachi, each headed by the DC concerned, to provide information and coordinate on human rights issues.

Human rights complaint desks will also be established in the offices of DCs and a human rights WhatsApp group will be created to ensure immediate contact between DCs, police, and the human rights department.

Published in Dawn, June 16th, 2024