HRCP wants abduction, killing of MQM workers probed

Lahore: The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has noted with serious alarm that while the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) has continued to voice concerns about abduction, torture and extrajudicial killings of its workers, steps have not been taken to investigate the charges.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Commission said: “HRCP has learned that dead bodies of two MQM workers were found in Korangi late last week. Both men had been missing for over a month and their bodies showed torture marks.

“MQM has repeatedly complained in recent weeks that its workers and activists are being picked up, tortured and killed amid the ongoing security operation in Karachi and pointed the finger at the law enforcement agencies. HRCP thinks that these are very serious charges which must be investigated without any delay.

“Everyone who calls Karachi their home, and indeed all citizens of Pakistan, have a stake in peace returning to Karachi. Towards that end, the launch of the operation to rid Karachi of widespread violence had been generally well received. HRCP demands that all attempts by police and other law enforcement agencies to restore peace in the city must strictly adhere to law and human rights.

“HRCP also calls upon the federal and provincial governments to immediately hold an inquiry with a view to investigate the MQM complaints to the satisfaction of the party and of the victims’ families.”