Pakistan Bans Pashtun Rights Group, PTM
Pakistan has declared the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM) a “proscribed organisation,” citing activities deemed harmful to the country’s peace and security. The PTM, advocating for the rights of Pashtuns affected by Pakistan’s conflicts, has faced criticism from the government.
Founded in 2014, PTM has been vocal about enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings, often attributing them to the military. Despite being a non-political entity, PTM has drawn huge crowds to peaceful protests.
Recent arrests of PTM activists ahead of an upcoming gathering have sparked concern among human rights groups. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan has called for the lifting of the ban, criticizing the government’s decision as extreme and unwarranted.
Pakistan’s clampdown on dissent comes amidst escalating tensions, exacerbated by increased violence in border areas near Afghanistan. As the country prepares to host a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation meeting, the PTM ban adds to the ongoing challenges facing Pakistan.