[ad_1]
(New York) – Pakistan Authorities should exercise restraint in response to demonstrations in Balochistan, release all those detained for peaceful protests, and restore internet access, Human Rights Watch said today.
Since July 28, 2024, Pakistani authorities have detained Hundreds of people In response to the Baloch National Rally, a march aimed at raising awareness of human rights issues in Balochistan. Some protesters It is said that Attack on security forces, killing one soldier and injuring many others. Baloch activist Allegations Government security forces used excessive force to prevent protesters from reaching the march’s final destination, the port city of Gwadar, where government authorities have cut off internet access.
“Pakistani authorities should uphold the right to peaceful protest and assembly and use only the minimum necessary force when non-violent means fail,” he said. Patricia Gossman, Deputy Director of the Asia Division at Human Rights Watch. “Authorities must protect the rights of protesters while preventing the situation in Balochistan from getting out of control.”
Baloch national rally calls for multiple Enforced disappearance Such disappearances have been a feature of the conflict between the Balochistan government and militants for years. Pakistani security forces have also carried out enforced disappearances to silence peaceful critics of the government.
Non-Governmental Organizations Human Rights Commission of Pakistan Some organizers of the march reportedly received threaten Cancel the march or face arrest or Enforced disappearanceSince July 28, protesters have blocked roads. Request for release Colleagues detained.
United Nations The basic principle The Law on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials states that security forces may never use excessive force. Firearms may be used to disperse violent assemblies only when other less harmful means are not feasible, but they must still be used to the minimum extent necessary. Law enforcement officials may only intentionally use lethal force when it is absolutely unavoidable to protect life.
Government authorities often claim that internet shutdowns are necessary to protect public safety and curb the spread of false information. However, the sweeping measure deprives ordinary people of their right to life-saving information, interferes with their access to health care, and limits the ability of journalists to upload photos and videos documenting the government’s response to protests. International human rights law prohibits broad, indiscriminate, and indefinite restrictions on fundamental freedoms, including the rights to freedom of expression and the right to give and receive information, Human Rights Watch said.
The Pakistani government needs to address enforced disappearances, which are considered an ongoing crime. International law definition Enforced disappearance occurs when a person is detained by State forces or their agents and is removed from the protection of the law by refusing to acknowledge that person’s detention or whereabouts.
Activists in Balochistan say 7,000 enforced disappearances Since 2004, the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances in Pakistan has received Thousands of complaints Enforced disappearances occur across the country. Most victims come from marginalized groups and face torture and Extrajudicial executionsThe government has yet to hold those responsible for the disappearances accountable.
“Balochistan is Pakistan’s province with the highest number of enforced disappearances, and authorities have deliberately ignored calls for accountability for years,” Gosman said. “The authorities should end these abuses, prosecute the perpetrators, and provide redress to the victims and their families.”
[ad_2]
Source link
