Human Rights Commission of Pakistan

HRCP and Amnesty International have called for a prompt, independent investigation into violence in Rawalakot, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, following clashes between protesters and law enforcement. The unrest, linked to protests by the proscribed Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) demanding the abolition of 12 legislative seats, has resulted in casualties and a communications blackout in the region.

Rights activists and lawyers in Pakistan warn that the proposed Punjab Control of Habitual Offenders and Anti-Social Behaviour Bill, 2026, could lead to mass repression, preemptive punishment, and the targeting of dissenters, arguing it redefines criminality to include unproven accusations and challenges to state narratives.

A report by the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan and the International Federation for Human Rights highlights systemic corruption in Pakistan's justice system, including favoritism, nepotism, and state capture of the judiciary. The report criticizes the 26th and 27th constitutional amendments for undermining judicial independence and calls for reforms to address corruption risks.

KP Police rescued a foreign citizen and her children from a house in Bara after allegations of domestic abuse and physical torture by her husband, who was arrested. The complainant reported 12 years of abuse, leading to a criminal case filed under the Pakistan Penal Code and the KP Domestic Violence against Women Act. The victim expressed gratitude to police and requested repatriation to her home country.

Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Election Commissioner Raja Shahbaz Khan announced decisions on three pending election petitions, awarding the PPP 11 seats. The PML-N secured six seats, independent candidates (now aligned with IPP) won four, PTI-backed candidates two, and MWM one. The HRCP expressed concerns over abrupt changes to re-polling decisions and electoral process integrity.