HRCP calls for lifting K-P emergency

LAHORE:

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has called for the withdrawal of emergency and governor's rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), the release of people it says have been arbitrarily detained, and the restoration of the provincial assembly, warning that emergency measures could undermine democratic institutions, restrict political activity and violate fundamental rights.

In a statement issued on Sunday, HRCP Chairperson Asad Iqbal Butt said the commission remained opposed to the imposition of emergency and governor's rule in the province.

The commission also called for meaningful public participation in decisions concerning K-P's political future and the use of its natural resources, including minerals, water and land.

The commission expressed concern over the detention of the province's elected chief executive and the arrests of other elected representatives and political workers.

It also referred to reports of the arrests of women workers of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in Punjab, describing these developments as part of a broader crackdown on political activity.

HRCP condemned militancy and terrorism but stressed that counterterrorism measures must comply with the law and should not lead to collective punishment.