The Supreme Court (SC) was requested to inquire into deaths of 318 coal miners in Balochistan during the last eight years.
Usama Khawar, a lawyer and labour rights activist, stated in his plea that a commission headed by a labour expert and experts from relevant governmental and civil society organizations should be formulated to advise on precautionary measures to be taken by coal miners to prevent injuries and fatalities.
The petitioner highlighted at least 45 isolated accidents since 2010 that resulted in the death of 318 coal workers. He requested the court to assign liability for those incidents to relevant officials and government agents for failing to protect the workers.
The applicant stressed that Balochistan Minerals Rules 2002 be implemented, and cancellation of licences of lease-holders who failed to discharge their obligations.
