PESHAWAR
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has released its annual report for 2024, highlighting a sharp decline in democratic standards and a worsening security situation in the province.
The report was unveiled by HRCP Vice Chairperson Akbar Khan at a press conference held at the Peshawar Press Club (PPC) here on Monday. The HRCP provinial Coordinator Professor Dr. Sarfraz was present on the occasion.
According to the report, growing concerns over electoral transparency and the weakening parliamentary system have undermined democratic governance. In KP, escalating extremism led to heavy casualties among civilians and security forces. Sectarian violence in Kurram claimed around 250 lives, triggering a humanitarian crisis.
The report recorded 77 blasphemy-related FIRs and 49 arrests, while the mob lynching of a tourist in Swat underscored the alarming rise in mob violence. At least 105 new cases of enforced disappearances were reported, prompting repeated judicial interventions. Civil liberties were further curtailed with the pre-election ban on the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM).
Women’s increased participation in the 2024 elections was noted as a positive development. However, gender-based and child violence remained rampant in the province, report added.
At least 26 miners died due to unsafe working conditions and militant attacks, while over 30 workers were kidnapped in separate incidents.
The report also highlighted environmental degradation, with over 100 deaths caused by floods and heavy rains in the province in the reported year and Peshawar ranked among the world’s most polluted cities. Legislative progress was slow, with only 21 out of 30 bills passed, while more than 23,000 cases remained pending in the Peshawar High Court. The HRCP urged both federal and provincial governments to address the growing humanitarian and governance challenges across the province, particularly in tribal districts.
