Lahore
A new draft law introduced in the Pakistan Senate has raised concern from the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP). The law would give district magistrates the power to ban public gatherings in Islamabad on various grounds, including public order.
HRCP has expressed that, if passed, the law could be used to target political opposition and rights activists who raise issues that the state finds contentious. The commission urged the Committee on Law and Justice to reject the bill.
The proposed law also allows district magistrates to use security forces and detain protesters who fail to comply with the ban on public gatherings. HRCP has warned that this would violate the people’s right to peaceful assembly under the Constitution.
HRCP further stated that the legislation would significantly restrict civil liberties. The commission called on lawmakers to protect the constitutional right to peaceful assembly.
This development comes at a time when civil liberties are increasingly being restricted in Pakistan. In Balochistan, heavy security measures have been enforced, and participants in public gatherings have faced crackdowns.
Additionally, the government has issued a separate order that prevents employees from using social media without permission. The order prohibits sharing official information and expressing opinions that could affect the government’s reputation or policies. Violations of these directives may result in strict actions.
