HRCP demands immediate withdrawal of PTI’s ban decision, calls it unconstitutional

Lahore: The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has demanded the immediate withdrawal of the government’s decision to impose a ban on the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), terming it unconstitutional. HRCP expressed dismay over the decision, stating it not only violates the rights of party members under Article 17 of the Constitution but also undermines democratic principles, especially after the Supreme Court affirmed PTI as a political entity.
HRCP emphasized that such actions signal political disenfranchisement and called for adherence to the Supreme Court’s ruling that effectively made PTI the largest party in the National Assembly, following its efforts to reserve seats for women and minorities.
HRCP warned that such unconstitutional measures will not only fail to curb polarization, political turmoil, and violence but also endanger democracy itself. They asserted that no political or democratic government should engage in actions that jeopardize political parties, which are fundamental to democracy.
Furthermore, HRCP reminded the government of the importance of prioritizing relief for distressed citizens trapped in continuous crises, violence, crime, and militarism, rather than pursuing divisive political actions.