The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) called for urgent de-escalation of tensions between Pakistan and India following its biannual meeting.

The commission highlighted the reported casualties, including women and children, due to Indian air strikes, as serious violations of international human rights law, potentially amounting to crimes against humanity.

The HRCP emphasized the need for dialogue and peaceful coexistence, condemning all forms of violent extremism and the use of religion as a weapon on both sides. It warned that armed conflict between the nuclear-armed neighbors threatens regional stability and endangers the rights of over a billion people. The organization expressed concerns that such a climate allows for increased suppression and security measures, undermining democratic principles and accountability. HRCP also urged the media to uphold integrity and avoid spreading harmful narratives.

Domestically, the HRCP voiced its worries over the lack of accountability in the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances and called for the establishment of a credible body to hold perpetrators accountable. It appealed for measures to address political tensions, restore student unions, uphold Afghan refugees’ rights, and protect indigenous communities from land appropriation.

Reports of custodial torture, extrajudicial killings, and arbitrary detentions by security forces were also condemned. The HRCP urged the release of former parliamentarian Ali Wazir and human rights defender Idris Khattak, along with leaders of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee, advocating for a political dialogue in Balochistan.

Welcoming recent legislative progress, the HRCP praised the Senate subcommittee’s approval of a bill to establish a National Commission for Minorities and encouraged parliamentary support. The commission reiterated the need for comprehensive land reforms, consensus-building among provinces, and prioritization of investments in health and education by the state.