Address Pakhtun grievances, HRW asks Pakistan

KABU (Pajhwok): A global human rights group on Saturday asked Pakistan to recognise the country’s ethnic diversity as a strength and not a weakness.

“The government should listen to and engage the concerns of the country’s many communities and allow for peaceful expression of dissent,” the Human Rights Watchdog (HRW) said.

The HRW’s call comes days after the death of Arman Loni, an activist of the Pakistan Tahafuz Movement (PTM).

The February 2 death was called the latest outrage against the beleaguered community. He died during a sit-in in southwestern Balochistan province.

“As a start, the authorities should ensure the investigation into the death of Arman Loni is effective and transparent,” the group said in a statement.

Police reported Loni died of a heart attack following clashes between police and protesters, but his supporters allege he died from torture in police custody.

pr/mud