Two days ago, Islamabad police clamped down on a pro-Palestinian rally in the federal capital. The rally was led by former Senator Mushtaq Ahmed and his wife, Humaira Tayyaba, founder of the Save Gaza Campaign. The police arrested several protesters, including Mushtaq Ahmed and his wife, and used physical force during the arrests and while loading individuals into police vans.
A video of the alleged police misconduct during the peaceful demonstration has gone viral on social media, prompting widespread criticism of both the police and the government for their treatment of the demonstrators.
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It should be noted that the police have since released all detainees, including Mushtaq Ahmed and his wife. Following their release, Mushtaq Ahmed Khan and Humaira Tayyaba held a press conference to condemn the criminalization of dissent against Israel in Pakistan.
The former senator criticized the oppression faced by those protesting against Israel in Pakistan. He stated that an agreement was reached with the Additional Deputy Commissioner and SP to avoid road blockages and ensure a peaceful protest. Despite this, the protesters were subjected to police brutality.
Mushtaq Ahmed Khan asserted their right to protest in Islamabad concerning the situation in Gaza. He warned that if the situation in Gaza deteriorates, the existence of the Al-Aqsa Mosque could be at risk. He emphasized that observing the conditions in Palestine makes jihad obligatory for Muslims and urged Muslim leaders to abandon their cowardly policies and take action.
Humaira Tayyaba, the founder of the Save Gaza Campaign, stated that the campaign represents the voice of all Pakistanis. She highlighted efforts to raise awareness among students but expressed dismay at the police’s violent response to their peaceful protests.
