Lahore: The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has raised alarms over the increasing restrictions on human rights advocacy within the nation. The organization has reported numerous obstacles that have hindered its ability to execute its mission effectively.

In recent months, HRCP has encountered several actions that it describes as arbitrary and unjustified, obstructing its operations. The organization emphasizes that its work is rooted in the constitutional rights of all citizens and Pakistan’s international commitments.

Allegations have surfaced that individuals linked to the security apparatus have disrupted HRCP events by falsely claiming that a no-objection certificate was needed for indoor gatherings, despite no legal basis for such a requirement. Two notable incidents involved a consultation in Islamabad regarding regions affected by militancy and a roundtable in Gilgit discussing local communities’ resource rights. Both events had confirmed participation from relevant legislators and government officials.

Additionally, HRCP members and staff have reportedly faced harassment and intimidation nationwide. In an unprecedented move, the HRCP chairperson was questioned by police in Karachi, marking a first in the organization’s history.

HRCP suspects that these incidents are not isolated. Other challenges include an attempt to seal its Lahore office in 2024, the removal of an electricity meter, and a bank’s refusal to release funds based on a directive supposedly from the State Bank of Pakistan, which the bank later denied.

The organization calls on authorities to uphold the freedoms of association, assembly, and expression, ensuring that human rights defenders can work without fear of retribution. HRCP underscores the importance of civil society organizations in fostering a state that respects citizen rights and promotes a more tolerant society.