Human rights activists here have opposed the action against Lal Masjid and expressed doubts that it was coupled with the Supreme CourtÂ’s decision to impose fine on the federal government in the presidential reference against the chief justice.
Former finance minister Dr Mubashir Hasan said the situation developing at Lal Masjid coupled with the fine imposed by the SC on the federal government had created a serious situation, which also threatened Gen Pervez Musharraf’s position as president. HRCP Director IA Rehman said the violence at Lal Masjid was a tragic incident. “We oppose violent action against any person,” he said, adding that the killing of innocent people in the clash was saddening. Rehman said the HRCP had already warned the government against carrying out an operation against Lal Masjid.
| "No, no. Couldn't do that. Better to leave them in open rebellion against the government, kidnapping and beating citizens and foreign residents alike at their whim. |
Shahtaj Qazalbash, convener of the Joint Action Committee for PeoplesÂ’ Rights, an informal alliance of more than 30 NGOs, opposed the operation against the madrassa students. She said the situation would create more problems for the Musharraf government. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) Balochistan chapter said the government operation at Lal Masjid was aimed at cheating the people because Jamia Hafsa and other extremist elements enjoyed complete support of the government and its intelligence agencies. |