HRCP calls for independent inquiry into PTI November protest

LAHORE: The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has called for an independent and impartial inquiry into the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-led protest in Islamabad on November 24-26, 2024, following a fact-finding report that contradicts the federal government’s claims about the event.

According to a statement issued on Monday, the HRCP had formed a high-level fact-finding mission that gathered testimonies from state representatives, PTI leaders, journalists, and the families of seven individuals reportedly killed during the protest.

The mission compiled its report, which noted that the PTI protest allegedly resulted in the deaths of demonstrators and security personnel.

The mission expressed deep concerns over the allegations that the hospital administrations and police withheld the bodies of victims until their families agreed not to pursue any legal action.

The mission alleged that “while the hospital administrations refused to speak with the fact-finding team, accounts from journalists and the families of alleged victims suggest that these hospitals may be concealing information”.

While acknowledging the constitutional right to peaceful assembly, the mission stressed that protests must remain lawful. The report documented that some protesters allegedly carried slingshots, tear gas shells, and firearms.

It also criticised the administration for a lack of effective protest management and the excessive and disproportionate use of force.

“Although the mission attempted to contact the interior minister to inquire about the use of live ammunition against protestors, he was unavailable to meet the team,” the statement read.

The mission has expressed alarm over the mainstream media’s blackout of the entire event, which may have resulted from state coercion or self-censorship. “The media should have been allowed to assess the situation on the ground without hindrance and report the facts.”

The HRCP’s report urged the government to immediately announce an independent, impartial inquiry into these events, involving the families of the alleged victims, the PTI and other political stakeholders.