Geneva

Human rights campaigner Arif Aajakia has made serious allegations against Pakistan, accusing its authorities of widespread enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and suppression of dissent in regions such as Balochistan, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

In an interview, Aajakia claimed that thousands of activists and civilians have allegedly gone missing over the years. He said that while some victims are later found dead, often bearing signs of torture, many others remain unaccounted for.

He further alleged that families frequently seek legal recourse after such incidents, but justice remains elusive. Reports of suspected mass graves, he added, have heightened concerns and contributed to instability in affected areas.

Aajakia also accused the Pakistani military of exercising significant influence over key state institutions, including the judiciary and media. According to him, even individuals raising basic civic issues—such as access to water or living conditions—face intimidation or targeting. He characterised these alleged actions as grave human rights violations.

Referring to historical events like the Bangladesh Liberation War, he argued that past atrocities have not received adequate international legal scrutiny.

The activist also criticised Pakistan’s blasphemy laws, alleging that they are misused to target minorities and dissenters. He pointed to incidents of mob violence, including the lynching of a Sri Lankan national, as examples of how religious sentiments can be exploited. He further claimed that even lawyers advocating for human rights have faced legal action.

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Additionally, Aajakia accused Pakistan of backing extremist groups and being linked to attacks in neighbouring countries. He referenced incidents such as the 2008 Mumbai attacks, Pulwama attack, and the Pahalgam attack in 2025, alleging involvement of Pakistan-based elements, as well as connections to militant networks in Afghanistan.