Karachi: Asad Iqbal Butt, the Chairperson of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, along with prominent labor leaders, has condemned the illegal four-hour detention of Butt by police, highlighting it as an attempt to suppress advocacy for the Baloch people’s rights.
According to Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, Butt was detained at Gulberg Police Station, an act that Nasir Mansoor, General Secretary of the National Trade Union Federation; Zahra Khan, General Secretary of the Home-Based Women Workers Federation; and Aqib Hussain, organizer for Alternate, described in a joint statement as part of a worrying trend against human rights activists. They labeled the incident a serious violation of fundamental human rights and a dangerous precedent in curbing freedom of speech and expression.
The group demanded a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding Butt’s detention, insisting on accountability for the officers involved. They also called on the government to safeguard the rights of citizens to engage in activism without fear of reprisal and underscored the importance of protecting democratic freedoms in the country.
Vowing to continue their advocacy, the labor and human rights leaders reaffirmed their commitment to fighting oppressive measures and working toward a more just society.