"We deplore the use of disproportionate force in arresting Imran Khan from the premises of the Islamabad High Court," the statement read. It was clearly unwarranted and has only aggravated the political climate.
According to the statement, the HRCP strongly condemns the violence perpetrated both by security and law enforcement personnel—in which at least one person was reportedly killed—as well as by enraged protestors. At this time, the need for restraint and political dialogue has never been greater. Respect for the rule of law must apply equally to all citizens and in all situations; it cannot be applied selectively.
The HRCP was also alarmed to see that the state’s knee-jerk reaction to the crisis was to restrict Internet connectivity. As before, such steps achieve little apart from allowing dangerous rumors to circulate and compromising people’s access to information and their safety in public spaces, the statement read.
In a statement, the HRCP urges all political stakeholders to use peaceful, democratic means such as the forum of the Parliament to settle their differences rather than resorting to violence, intimidation, and thuggery.