Human Rights Watch (HRW) has said that Pakistani authorities are using “excessive force” against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters who are protesting the arrest of former prime minister Imran Khan. At least 5 people have died and several others have reportedly been injured as PTI supporters held protests, which in many cases were violent, across the country amid crackdown.
The international human rights watchdog issued a statement condemning “excessive force” used against the protesters, while it also urged the authorities to uplift social media restrictions.
“The government’s cutting of mobile internet services, and restrictions on access to Twitter, Facebook, and other social media platforms, is overbroad and indiscriminate in violation of basic rights,” it said in a statement.
PTI supporters destroyed public property and set fire to them, while attacking police stations and military residences across the country. In response, police resorted to violence against protesters, using tear gas, rubber bullets and charging at protesters with batons. Police authorities have also arrested a number of PTI leaders.
During the protests, one person was killed in Quetta after police opened fire at the protest. Meanwhile, four people were killed in Peshawar.
“The Pakistani government should uphold the right to peaceful protest while responding to violence with the minimum force needed,” said Patricia Gossman, associate Asia director at Human Rights Watch. “Criminal acts should be promptly investigated and appropriately prosecuted.”
The HRW has also urged authorities to uplift restriction on social media.
 has said that Pakistani authorities are using "excessive force" against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters who are protesting the arrest of former prime minister Imran Khan. At least 5 people have died and several others have reportedly been injured as PTI supporters held protests, which in many cases were violent, across the country amid crackdown.){kind=link}