What Led to the Arrest of a Journalist and Rights Defender in Pakistan?
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Synopsis
A peaceful protest against the controversial 27th Constitutional Amendment in Pakistan led to the arrest of journalist Alifia Sohail and human rights advocate Farwa Askar. The Human Rights Council has called for accountability and highlighted the importance of protecting freedom of expression.
Key Takeaways
- Human Rights Council condemns unlawful arrests.
- Calls for accountability and protection of rights.
- Protests signify a demand for freedom of expression.
- Recent amendments spark significant public backlash.
- Importance of safeguarding democracy highlighted.
Islamabad, Nov 22 (NationPress) The Human Rights Council (HRC) of Pakistan has issued a strong denunciation regarding the unlawful arrest and five-hour detention of its member Farwa Askar and journalist Alifia Sohail.
The rights organization reported that the arrests occurred on Friday outside the Karachi Press Club during a peaceful demonstration opposing the 27th Constitutional Amendment of the country.
This incident is characterized as a serious infringement on freedom of expression and human rights.
The protests were triggered by the signing of the 27th Constitutional Amendment Bill by Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari on November 13, after it received approval from both houses of Parliament. This bill is now a part of Pakistan's Constitution.
The HRC Pakistan stated, "Alifia Sohail is a distinguished journalist known for her fearless reporting on social issues, while Farwa Askar is a passionate human rights advocate striving to safeguard fundamental rights in Pakistan. Their unlawful detention represents a violation of the Constitution of Pakistan and a reprehensible attempt to stifle journalism and the human rights movement."
The organization demanded a prompt investigation into the officers responsible for the arrests and insisted on appropriate punishment.
It also called on the authorities to uphold the rights of citizens engaging in peaceful protests against the 27th Constitutional Amendment and ensure the safety of journalists and human rights defenders so they can perform their duties without fear.
According to the HRC Pakistan, "Such tactics undermine the democratic values of the nation and breach international human rights standards."
The rights organization urged all relevant institutions to treat this issue with the seriousness it deserves and implement measures to prevent human rights violations in Pakistan.
Earlier in the week, the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) faction in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province criticized the 27th Constitutional Amendment, labeling it a "conspiracy against the Islamic Constitution" and detrimental to national interests.
Moreover, the joint opposition alliance of Tehreek Tahaffuz-e-Ayeen-Pakistan (TTAP) staged a protest march from Parliament House to the Supreme Court in Islamabad against the amendment.
During the address to reporters, TTAP member Allama Raja Nasir Abbas stated that the march underscored their struggle for the "protection" of the Constitution.
He was quoted by Geo News saying, "We marched from Parliament to the Supreme Court to demonstrate how all avenues of justice have been obstructed for the people of Pakistan."
Point of View
My stance is clear: we must always support the pursuit of justice and the protection of fundamental rights. The recent arrests highlight the ongoing struggle for freedom of expression in Pakistan. It is crucial for all citizens to voice their concerns without fear of retribution.
NationPress
22/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason for the protest?
The protest was against the 27th Constitutional Amendment in Pakistan.
Who were the arrested individuals?
Farwa Askar, a member of the Human Rights Council, and Alifia Sohail, a journalist, were arrested.
What does the HRC say about the arrests?
The HRC condemned the arrests as a grave violation of freedom of expression and human rights.
What actions did the authorities take?
The authorities arrested the protesters and the HRC has demanded an immediate investigation into the officers involved.
How has the public reacted?
Various organizations, including political parties, have criticized the amendment and supported the protests.
