HRC reacts to evacuation of hostels in Islamabad

HRCP spokesperson says eviction of students from hostels without any legal justification has left them without shelter

ISLAMABAD:

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed deep concern over the Islamabad administration's recent actions to evict students from their hostels and block roads leading to the city.

In a statement issued today, an HRCP spokesperson highlighted that the eviction of students from hostels, without any legal justification or wrongdoing, has left them without shelter.

"The students have been deprived of their refuge without committing any crime, which raises serious concerns regarding their rights," the statement read.

The commission also pointed out the negative impact of road closures, especially on routes leading from Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to Islamabad, including the motorway.

The blockage of these routes has affected the daily lives of common citizens, particularly laborers, who depend on free movement for their livelihoods.

HRCP called for immediate review of these actions by the government, urging authorities to ensure the protection of citizens' rights and allow free movement, while also providing security and protection for students affected by the hostel evacuations.

The HRCP's response adds to mounting concerns over the infringement of public rights during the ongoing political unrest in the country.

Unrest revolves around Imran Khan who, in a statement, urged the masses to unite for the protest, calling it a movement for freedom and justice.

The latest clash between the PML-N-led government and PTI comes after the latter threw down the gauntlet, announcing plans for a rally that could escalate into a sit-in unless its demands are met, including the release of PTI founder Imran Khan, the reversal of the 26th constitutional amendment and the return "stolen mandate".

PTI leadership has announced plans to gather at specific locations before marching to Islamabad, where they intend to hold a sit-in at D-Chowk.

The Commission emphasized the need to safeguard individual freedoms while addressing security concerns.

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) drew on Sunday urgent attention to deteriorating human rights and weakening democracy.

The HRCP noted that instead of fortifying democratic norms and safeguarding fundamental rights, the state has increasingly prioritised consolidating authority.

"Where the state should be focusing on efforts to uphold the rule of law, reduce violence against women, children and transgender persons, protect the rights of workers and peasants, and fulfil people's right to health and education, it has instead prioritised its own authority at the expense of democratic norms and people's fundamental rights."

HRCP called on all political parties to reach a consensus on civilian autonomy and guarding federalism.