Pakistan Intensifies Crackdown on Pashtun Rights Activists

Pakistan has added 52 individuals to the Fourth Schedule under its Anti-Terrorism Act, intensifying efforts against the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM). This move restricts these individuals' activities, raising concerns over freedom of speech. The crackdown coincides with the upcoming Pashtun National Jirga, sparking significant public debate.

In a significant development, Pakistan has recently escalated its operations against dissenting voices by listing 52 individuals from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on the Fourth Schedule of the country's Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997. This initiative is seen as part of a broader strategy to suppress the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM), known for advocating human rights.

The Fourth Schedule categorizes these individuals as terrorism suspects, subjecting them to stringent restrictions including travel bans and asset freezes, and marking them for close surveillance. Notably, the founder of PTM, Manzoor Ahmed Pashteen, along with other key figures from South Waziristan, has been added to the list, according to Samaa TV reports.

This crackdown on PTM supporters underscores the state's determination to quash movements challenging Pakistan's human rights record. With the Pashtun National Jirga approaching on October 11, tensions have heightened, illustrated by violent clashes between PTM activists and law enforcement. Despite assurances of security by the local government, forceful interventions, including camp raids and arrests, have been reported, drawing widespread condemnation from rights groups.

(With inputs from agencies.)