AnyTV News Police used batons on protesters in Pakistan, one person died; Many injured -

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Pakistan Police Lathi Charge

Karachi: Police used batons to stop workers of a religious party from clashing with civil and human rights protesters in Pakistan’s Sindh province. One person died and several others were injured in the lathi charge by the police. Protestors of Sindh Rawadari March (SRM) had gathered in front of Karachi Press Club (KPC) to protest against the killing of blasphemy suspect Shahnawaz Kunbhar and “extremism in Sindh”, at the same time as religious-political party ‘ Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) workers tried to enter KPC.

Police did lathicharge

Police and paramilitary Rangers stopped ‘Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan’ protesters and clashed with SRM protesters. In footage broadcast on television and social media, police were seen lathi-charging protesters, including women, outside the KPC. After which the situation seemed to be worsening.

Many people were arrested

One person died and several others were injured after water cannons and tear gas shells were used to control the situation, a police official said. Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Syed Asad Raza said, “Protesters belonging to both the groups have been arrested.” Investigation has also been started.

Human rights organizations expressed concern

Meanwhile, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed serious concern over the arrest of several people associated with the Sindh Rawadari march by the Karachi Police while attempting to organize a peaceful gathering. “Police have also attempted to arrest HRCP President Asad Iqbal Butt and warned him not to speak to the press,” the commission said in a statement. The Pakistan Human Rights Commission has demanded the immediate and unconditional release of those detained.

The Sindh Human Rights Commission (SHRC) expressed concern over the treatment meted out to participants in the Sindh Rawadari march. “SHRC maintains that freedom of movement is a fundamental right,” he said in a press release. “It is the duty of the State to respect, protect and fulfill such rights,” the SHRC said. (AP)