Karachi, The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has issued a call to the Sindh government demanding a transparent and independent investigation into the murder of political activist Hidayatullah Lohar. The commission also urged for the immediate release of protestors, including Lohar’s sons, who were detained during a sit-in against his killing. The HRCP emphasizes the need for these individuals to exercise their right to freedom of peaceful assembly without conditions.

According to Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, Lohar was fatally shot in Nasirabad on February 16, 2024, by two individuals on a motorcycle. A fact-finding report by the HRCP suggests that Lohar’s murder was a targeted killing related to his nationalist activism, highlighted by his previous enforced disappearances. The absence of other motives led the mission to view this as a credible interpretation of the events leading to his death. The report also criticized the initial hesitation of the police to register a First Information Report (FIR) that named specific suspects, despite evidence from Lohar’s family and CCTV footage. It was only after a court order, nearly two weeks post-murder, that the FIR was registered.

The HRCP’s statement calls on the Sindh government not only to ensure a fair investigation and the accountability of those responsible for Lohar’s murder but also to compensate and protect his family. The commission highlights the family’s precarious position as outspoken activists against enforced disappearances and insists that the perpetrators be brought to justice, regardless of any affiliations they may have with influential entities.