Amnesty International South Asia demanded that internet shutdowns and “imposition of an emergency law” in Gwadar must be stopped forthwith.
“Such disruptions are neither necessary nor proportionate, and inhibits the ability of the people of Gwadar to communicate, access information, seek safety and work”, Amnesty International South Asia said in a Twitter thread.
The statement added that the imposition of Section 144 in Gwadar should “not become a pretext for more human rights violations – especially if they prevent people from peacefully protesting”.
“Amnesty International is concerned that both the internet ban and emergency law will serve as a springboard for further crackdown on people’s fundamental freedoms, including freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, right to personal security and freedom from arbitrary detention”, the statement read.
Amnesty International South Asia urged authorities in Balochistan to “immediately restore internet services and lift the ban on public gatherings”.
PAKISTAN: The internet shutdown in Gwadar, Balochistan following the imposition of an emergency law to quell protests on 28 Dec must be reversed immediately. [THREAD]
— Amnesty International South Asia (@amnestysasia) January 3, 2023
