Pro-democracy Pak students mount protests in US

Washington, Mar 17: A group of Pakistani students from various American universities, schools and colleges, organised protests in a number of cities in the US on the weekend, demanding the immediate restoration of Pakistan's sacked judges.

In Cambridge, Massachusetts, the Student Action Committee staged a protest in Harvard Yard, demanding the immediate restoration of the pre-Nov 3, 2007, judiciary in Pakistan. Protesting against Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf, the protesters dubbed as "unconstitutional" Musharraf's actions like dismissal of judges; curbs on the media; the suspension of civil liberties and fundamental rights; and illegal detentions without trial or charges.

They shouted slogans and walked up and down Harvard Square waving black flags, reported the Daily Times.

According to the paper, several doctors and lawyers also joined the students in the protests.

Speaking on the occasion, Aqil Sajjad, a student, said that the US and the international community should stop interfering in Pakistan's internal affairs. He also spoke against the continued detention of judges with their families. He urged upon the US to build a relationship with the people of Pakistan instead of with an unpopular ruler.

ANI