Pak Human Rights Commission slams illegal detention of suspected militants' relatives

Lahore, Feb. 23 (ANI): The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed deep concerns over illegal detention of family members of suspected militants.

"HRCP is concerned over reports of a large number of people in custody of security forces in this region, who have not been produced in court. Many such detainees, including females, are relatives of suspected militants, who have apparently been taken into custody in order to force militants to surrender," the Daily Times quoted an HRCP statement, as saying on Monday.

The Commission also slammed reported revenge killings in Swat and Malakand division.

"Similarly, there have been continuing reports of revenge killings targeting individuals who are suspected to have sided with the Taliban," the statement said.

While the commission acknowledged the war against terrorism, it urged the government to defend basic right to life of Pakistani citizens.

"HRCP acknowledges the government is dealing with a difficult situation in the fight against terrorism in the region, but under no circumstances can state agencies deal with citizens in any manner as they please," the statement said.

"The government must ensure that such detainees are immediately produced in court, or released and paid compensation for arbitrary detention. HRCP also demands that the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is granted access to the detainees," it added. (ANI)