The Islamabad High Court on Friday inquired why Baloch protesters in the federal capital, who were subjected to brutal police action a day earlier, were being “forcefully” sent back to their province.
“They can stay in Islamabad, protest or go back home. The choice is theirs,” remarked IHC Chief Justice Aamer Farooq on a petition filed by Baloch protesters against unlawful detention.
On Wednesday night, the Islamabad police used brutal force to disperse and detain Baloch demonstrators who had converged on the capital to protest against enforced disappearances and extra-judicial killings in their province. More than 200 protesters were taken into custody from different areas of Islamabad. The demonstrators were also met with tear gas, water canons and police batons.
While hearing a petition seeking the release of detained Baloch protesters, the IHC was told that more than 50 Baloch women protesters “went missing” on Wednesday night, following the police action.
The court had subsequently asked the representatives of the protesters and their counsel to approach the Islamabad SSP (Investigation) to record their version and sought a report from the police today.
The written order issued after the hearing said that it was “only appropriate that police authorities inform the petitioners and their counsels about address of the destinations, where women have been taken and once this is done, persons held responsible, be accounted for. Likewise, details of the women, who have gone back on their own, be also shared with the petitioners.” The order said the case would now be taken up on December 27.
Chief Justice Aamir Farooq expressed deep concern over the rising street crimes in the capital and lambasted the IG Punjab as the police have failed to fulfill its duties effectively in Islamabad. He highlighted instances where the court’s staff members fell victim to theft, with mobile phones and wallets being snatched.
