Islamabad: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) issued a stern directive to the police on Thursday, emphasizing the constitutional right of Baloch demonstrators to protest and warning against any interference with the protesters.
During the hearing, Chief Justice Farooq addressed Islamabad Inspector General (IG) Akbar Nasir, expressing displeasure at the perceived forceful actions against the Baloch demonstrators. He emphasized that the protesters could stay in Islamabad, continue their protest, or return home, emphasizing that the choice rested with them.
Chief Justice Aamer Farooq remarked during the hearing of the case that those who come to protest should be allowed to do so, as it is their constitutional right.
The court’s directive came during the hearing of a plea challenging the arrest of Baloch protesters in Islamabad yesterday. The participants of the long march, aimed at raising awareness about the enforced disappearances of Baloch missing persons, when police intervened on Wednesday night.
HRCP strongly condemns the violent police crackdown on Baloch protestors in Islamabad, with women, children and the elderly subjected to unwarranted force in the form of water cannons and use of batons. Numerous women protestors have reportedly been arrested and separated from…
— Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (@HRCP87) December 21, 2023
The police’s use of brutal force against Baloch demonstrators, who were protesting against enforced disappearances of Baloch missing persons, drew widespread condemnation from human rights organizations. The Pakistan Human Rights Commission and Amnesty International’s South Asiam Regional Office voiced their reservations over the detention of Baloch protesters, who were taken into custody during protests for allegedly pelting stones at police officers on Wednesday. Over 200 protesters were detained, facing tear gas, water cannons, and police batons.
Pakistan: @amnesty is deeply concerned by the excessive use of force by law enforcement against the Baloch Long March protestors in Islamabad on 21 December. Amnesty has reviewed videos showing water cannons, tear gas and batons being used against the protestors. Dozens have been…
— Amnesty International South Asia, Regional Office (@amnestysasia) December 21, 2023
In response to these developments, Chief Justice Aamer Farooq reiterated the constitutional right of citizens to protest peacefully.
The IHC’s warning serves as a reminder of the fundamental democratic right to peaceful assembly and expression for all citizens, emphasizing the importance of respecting these rights in the context of the Baloch protests.
Dear TNT Reader,
At The News Tribe, our mission is to bring you free, independent, and unbiased news and content that keeps you informed and empowered. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of journalism, as we understand that we are a platform for truth.
Apart from independent global news coverage, we also commit our unique focus on the Muslim world. In an age marked by the troubling rise of Islamophobia and widespread misrepresentation of Muslims in Western media, we strive to provide accurate and fair coverage.
But to continue doing so, we need your support. Even a small donation of 1$ can make a big difference. Your contribution will help us maintain the quality of our news and counteract the negative narratives that are so prevalent.
Please consider donating today to ensure we can keep delivering the news that matters. Together, we can make a positive impact on the world, and work towards a more inclusive, informed global society.
Donate Monthly Subscription Annual Subscription
