Human Rights Group Faces Mounting Pressure Amid Crackdown in Pakistan
ISLAMABAD — As Pakistan’s human rights landscape continues to deteriorate, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP), the country’s oldest and most respected independent rights watchdog, says it is facing unprecedented state pressure in what activists describe as a broad crackdown on civil society.
Speaking to Deutsche Welle, HRCP Secretary-General Harris Khalique revealed that the organization has been systematically targeted by state authorities and security agencies. “Authorities are preventing us from organizing events and creating disruptions. Our Lahore office has been sealed, our bank accounts frozen under dubious accusations of commercial activity, and our electricity meters have been blocked while we’re being issued inflated bills,” Khalique said.
According to Khalique, events organized across different cities have been obstructed without formal explanation. Staff members have reported receiving threatening phone calls warning them to stay away from “sensitive” topics—many of which include enforced disappearances, minority rights, and extrajudicial actions.
Most disturbingly, Khalique added that women on HRCP’s staff have been harassed and threatened by individuals claiming to represent intelligence agencies and the Ministry of Interior. “We stand firmly against both violence and militancy,” he said, “but those speaking out for basic rights are being intimidated, not protected.”
The clampdown comes amid worsening political instability and increasing reports of media censorship, disappearances, and surveillance of activists. Analysts suggest this is part of a broader effort by the state to silence dissent and suppress independent scrutiny.
As Pakistan prepares for upcoming elections amid economic and political uncertainty, rights groups warn that the shrinking civic space signals deepening authoritarianism—one that threatens not only activists, but the very fabric of democratic life in the country.
