Is the Human Rights Situation Deteriorating in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa?
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Synopsis
The alarming deterioration of human rights in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa raises critical concerns over the government's role in safeguarding citizens. With increasing violence and reported military actions, the HRCP's findings demand urgent attention and accountability from authorities.
Key Takeaways
- The HRCP highlights serious human rights concerns in K-P.
- Violence and displacement are on the rise in merged districts.
- Reports of civilian casualties demand immediate government action.
- The K-P Actions Ordinance poses significant legal and ethical issues.
- Enforced disappearances remain a persistent problem.
Islamabad, Sep 27 (NationPress) The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has raised significant alarms regarding the state of human rights and security in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) province, pointing out the government's failure to safeguard citizens' right to life and liberty, especially in the merged districts.
A comprehensive fact-finding mission led by the HRCP took place from September 24 to 26, engaging with diverse civil society representatives, including members of the press, legal experts, human rights advocates, families affected by conflict, political leaders, law enforcement, and senior officials from the K-P provincial government, including the Chief Minister.
“Local communities and stakeholders have expressed serious concerns about a troubling connection between rising violence, displacement, and security operations, particularly in relation to the extraction of natural resources under the proposed Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Mines and Minerals Act 2025,” stated the HRCP.
“In numerous areas within the merged districts, militants seem to operate without restraint, reportedly extorting residents, threatening those who resist, and limiting movement during the afternoons. There are indications that law enforcement agencies have reduced their presence in these regions,” the statement continued.
The HRCP’s investigation also highlighted alarming reports of recent civilian casualties in Tirah valley, where over 30 individuals, including women and children, were reportedly killed due to aerial bombardments conducted by the Pakistani Air Force.
The commission called for a thorough investigation, urging both provincial and federal authorities to stop shifting blame. The HRCP emphasized that insufficient compensation for victims' families cannot replace the need for state accountability and due process.
Alarmingly, the mission pointed out that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Actions (in Aid of Civil Power) Ordinance 2019, a controversial law still active, continues to endorse internment centers and preventive detention, violating Article 10 of the Constitution and Pakistan's international legal commitments.
Furthermore, it noted that decreased judicial and administrative oversight, along with weak regulatory frameworks, perpetuate enforced disappearances, with reports of thousands of cases despite significantly lower official statistics.
The mission also documented the intimidation of journalists, lawyers, and human rights activists, particularly those campaigning against enforced disappearances.
“The allegation of law enforcement and security agencies being complicit in the forced disappearances of individuals, who are subsequently traced to internment centers, is a serious concern that demands an urgent response from the government,” the HRCP stressed.
Point of View
It's imperative to highlight the urgent need for the government to acknowledge and address the human rights violations reported by the HRCP. The ongoing deteriorating situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa requires immediate action and accountability to safeguard the rights of every citizen.
NationPress
27/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What concerns did the HRCP raise about Khyber Pakhtunkhwa?
The HRCP raised concerns regarding the deteriorating human rights and security situation, particularly the government's failure to protect citizens' rights.
What recent incidents prompted the HRCP's alarm?
Recent incidents include civilian casualties in Tirah valley, where over 30 civilians were reportedly killed in aerial bombardments.
What actions does the HRCP demand from the government?
The HRCP demands a credible inquiry into the incidents and urges the government to stop shifting blame while ensuring accountability.
How does the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Actions Ordinance affect human rights?
The ordinance legitimizes internment centers and preventive detention, violating constitutional provisions and international commitments.
What is the situation regarding enforced disappearances in K-P?
There are allegations of thousands of enforced disappearances, with reports suggesting law enforcement's involvement in these cases.
