In the wake of attacks on army installations and the subsequent arrest of PTI chairman on May 9, the Human Rights Watch (HRW) has called upon the Pakistan government to exercise restraint and uphold human rights and the rule of law. The organization has expressed concern over the arbitrary arrests of political activists and peaceful protesters and emphasized the need to put an end to such practices.
Patricia Gossman, the Associate Asia Director at HRW, highlighted the mass arrests of PTI supporters in connection with the riots and stated that more than 4,000 individuals have been detained. She further emphasized that many have been charged under broad and vague laws pertaining to rioting and threats to public order.
As the crackdown on PTI supporters continues, the HRW has urged Pakistani authorities to release all those who have been detained for peaceful protests or for supporting political opposition. The organization has stressed the importance of respecting the due process rights of all individuals held in custody.
Ms. Gossman emphasized that those who engage in violence should be appropriately charged, while also emphasizing the importance of respecting their due process rights. She added that the fundamental guarantees of peaceful protest and due process should not be compromised amid Pakistan’s political conflict.
The HRW’s call for restraint and respect for human rights comes at a critical juncture as Pakistan faces challenges related to security and political tensions. The organization’s plea for the government to adhere to the principles of the rule of law and protect the rights of individuals is of utmost importance in ensuring a just and democratic society.