Karachi, The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) released its annual report for 2023, detailing a troubling escalation in crime and ongoing human rights issues in Sindh, with significant incidents of violence and rights abuses across the province.
According to Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, the report specifically points to a significant rise in street crime in Karachi, with an 11 percent increase over the previous year, and a notable number of kidnappings. In an attempt to curb these trends, a large-scale operation was initiated by Sindh police in collaboration with the army and Rangers targeting dacoits in the Katcha riverine area.
The HRCP report also sheds light on violations of civic and fundamental rights, particularly during the May 9 riots which saw substantial damage to public and private properties. In what the report describes as an excessive response, over 25 leaders from the PTI, including the former Sindh governor Imran Ismail, were arrested. Additionally, the province witnessed ongoing issues of enforced disappearances with at least 175 cases involving political workers, nationalists, lawyers, and journalists.
The plight of vulnerable populations in Sindh was particularly highlighted, with numerous Afghan refugees and migrants arrested and deported following an executive order by the federal caretaker government. Meanwhile, issues of violence against women and children persisted with 546 reported cases of child abuse during the year. The report notes a modest increase in the minimum wage for unskilled workers to PKR 32,000, though it critiqued the lackluster enforcement of this policy.
Religious minorities in Sindh, particularly Hindu and Ahmadi communities, continued to face attacks on their places of worship and forced conversions, prompting frequent protests for better protection. On a positive note, the report commended amendments to the Sindh Local Government Act which enhanced the powers of mayors and municipal chairs and introduced reserved seats for transgender persons in local councils, marking a significant step towards inclusivity.