Pakistan Under Fascism: A Disturbing Reality of Human Rights Abuses
Introduction
In recent times, Pakistan has witnessed a disheartening descent into fascism, marked by an alarming crackdown on fundamental human rights and civil liberties—a development unparalleled in the nation's 75-year history. This grim situation has led to widespread suffering among civilians, journalists, and politicians, with numerous disturbing incidents casting a dark shadow over the country.
Political Repression and Forced Defections
Thousands of party workers and activists find themselves unjustly imprisoned, victims of a political climate where dissent is harshly suppressed. Shockingly, more than 100 prominent figures from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) have been forcibly coerced into defection, a testament to the intense pressure exerted by those in power.
Use of Force Against Peaceful Protesters
Since the regime change, law enforcement authorities have repeatedly used excessive force against peaceful protesters, including women and children. Reports even indicate the use of expired tear gas on PTI activists, reflecting a blatant disregard for the well-being of citizens exercising their democratic rights.
Arbitrary Arrests and Mistreatment
Shocking incidents of torture and mistreatment have surfaced. The distressing impact extends beyond the politicians themselves. For instance, Shahbaz Gill's driver's wife was also jailed by Islamabad Police along with her ten-month-old daughter.
Assault on Journalists and Media Freedom
In the past eighteen months, one of the prominent journalists, Arshad Sharif, has been assassinated; a plethora of sedition cases have been registered against several journalists, many of whom have been attacked, threatened, arrested and tortured; news channels have been banned; internet services have been disrupted; and live telecasts of speeches of political leaders from opposition have been banned.
Targeting Women in Politics
The crackdown extends to women involved in politics, with unlawful arrests, rearrests despite bail, and instances of torture and harassment designed to deter their participation in the political sphere.
Systematic Oppression: House Raids, Seizures, and Unlawful Arrests
The opposition faces a systematic campaign of oppression, with unlawful house raids, seizures of property and assets, and the arbitrary arrests of politicians and party workers. The use of direct gunfire, tear gas, and baton charges against unarmed protestors, including women and children, showcases the ruthlessness with which dissent is met.
Merciless Crimes Against Vulnerable Individuals
Perhaps most chillingly, special needs individuals like Zille Shah and minors like Ammar Abaad, have become victims of merciless murders, highlighting the depths of inhumanity in this distressing period.
Conclusion
Pakistan's descent into authoritarianism is marked by a disturbing reality of widespread human rights abuses, where the basic tenets of democracy are trampled upon with impunity. Thousands of Pakistanis are unlawfully detained at this moment; many subjected to illegal abductions, tortured into making forced confessions. Court orders are blatantly ignored, legal processes are openly denied, and draconian laws are employed to dismantle Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's political activities.
Pakistan is in the throes of an unparalleled crisis, driven by a corrupt and indifferent mafia. Our only route to freedom—for ourselves, our nation, and future generations—is to vote them out.
Written by: Umer Azad