Gilani rules out military operation as Karachi continues to burn

Islamabad, Aug.5 (ANI): Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has ruled out any military operation is Karachi even as the city continues to witness bloodshed that has resulted in the death of at least 82 civilians and over 20 being injured.

Violence, which had erupted in the country's commercial town following Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) MPA Raza Haider's murder on Monday, continued for the fourth consecutive day with 24 more people being reportedly killed.

Talking to reporters aboard his special aircraft while surveying the flood affected areas of the north-western part of the country, Gilani called the MQM and the Awami National Party (ANP) to work out a joint strategy with the ruling Pakistan People's Party (PPP) to deal with the issue.

"Altaf Hussain, my own party leadership and ANP leaders should develop a joint strategy by sitting down together with an open heart and mind," The Daily Times quoted Gilani, as saying.

Responding to a question over Indo-Pak talks, Gilani said he is hopeful that the renewed dialogue process would move forward despite their being a trust deficit between both countries.

"I personally had three meetings with my Indian counterpart and both sides seemed committed to continuing the process of dialogue," he added.

Meanwhile, in Karachi normal life remained paralysed with more violence being reported from various areas of the city.

According to reports, dozens of vehicles and shops were torched by protestors in Murshid bazaar area of the city.

Five houses were also set on fire in the same area, as police and rangers struggled to control the situation.

All schools, educational institutions, offices, commercial centres remained closed while both public and private transport remained off the road.

Areas like the Orangi Town, Baldia Town, Landhi, Hub River Road, SITE, Metroville have been worst hit in the ongoing bloodbath in the city. (ANI)