Additional DC faces 'eviction' from office

In an alleged case of political interference in bureaucratic matters, Abbottabad Additional Deputy Commissioner was forced out of her office on the behest of an influential MPA of the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party, drawing widespread criticism.

According to sources, Additional Deputy Commissioner Rabia Abbasi was coerced into leaving her office because of continuous political pressure and the district administration's inability to withstand the pressure.

Representatives and officials from over 14 NGOs including Sungi Foundation, Public Aid, Al Khidmat Welfare Foundation, Etami Foundation, Thalassaemia Centre Kala Pul and others have requested the Hazara commissioner to review the decision and let the additional deputy commissioner, who is taking care of District Human Rights Committee, District Vigilance Committee and District Jail Oversight Committee work in her office.

Sources further said her office was essential in managing relief and human rights operations in Abbottabad.

It also served as a hub for collaboration with national and international NGOs and fostered dialogue and community welfare projects.

Muhammad Idrees Awan, a human rights lawyer from Abbottabad, said the office was essential for planning and actions impacting thousands of lives. Its ground-floor location provided strategic accessibility and was ideal for collaborative work.

"The office regularly accommodated monthly meetings for the District Human Rights Committee, District Vigilance Committee, and District Jail Oversight Committee.

These meetings were integral to policy discussions on human rights and social justice with the well-equipped environment facilitating effective dialogue", Awan said.

Sabahat Khan, a rights activist, said that the incident in Hazara, a region plagued by entrenched patriarchal norms and frequent human rights abuses highlights the difficulties encountered by those challenging influential political forces. Sabahat has condemned the district administration for abruptly removing a female officer's belongings. The office had previously been a centre for relief and human rights activities she describes the incident as deplorable.

The sudden reassignment of the office raised serious questions about the continuity of Abbottabad's human rights initiatives and relief operations.

The officer concerned was contacted, and comments were sought, but she refused to make any comment.