News Desk
Lahore, July 2, 2025:
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has voiced serious concern over what it describes as increasing restrictions on human rights work in the country. In a press release issued Tuesday, the independent rights watchdog alleged that it has faced “a series of arbitrary, illegal and unjustified actions” in recent months that have disrupted its operations and infringed upon its constitutional mandate.
According to the HRCP, its events and outreach efforts have been obstructed by individuals claiming affiliation with state security agencies. In two recent instances—a consultation in Islamabad focused on militancy-affected regions and a roundtable in Gilgit discussing community rights to natural resources—venue staff or HRCP representatives were reportedly told that a no-objection certificate (NOC) was required to proceed, despite no such legal requirement existing for indoor gatherings.
“These were high-level discussions with confirmed participation from legislators and government departments,” the organization said, adding that such interference undermines dialogue on critical human rights issues.
The HRCP further reported incidents of intimidation and harassment targeting its staff and members in multiple cities. In what it called an unprecedented move, the organization said its chairperson, Asad Iqbal Butt, was recently summoned for police questioning in Karachi.
Additional concerns cited by the commission include an attempted sealing of its Lahore office in 2024, the unexplained removal of the office’s electricity meter, and the refusal of a commercial bank to release funds. The bank reportedly cited a directive from the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), which, according to the HRCP, was later disavowed in writing by the SBP during court proceedings.
The HRCP has called on the authorities to uphold the constitutional rights to freedom of association, assembly, and expression, and to ensure that civil society actors can operate without undue interference or reprisals.
“Civil society organizations such as HRCP are essential if Pakistan is to develop into a state that protects the rights of all its citizens,” said Butt. “Human rights work fosters a more tolerant and inclusive society—something Pakistan urgently needs.”
The commission has urged the government to take immediate steps to safeguard the operating space for human rights defenders and reaffirm its commitments under national and international human rights frameworks.