World must take note of HR violations in held Kashmir, Palestine: Mamnoon

ISLAMABAD: President Mamnoon Hussain Saturday urged the international community to take note of gross human rights violations against Kashmiris in Indian-held Kashmir (IHK) and Palestinians, who are deprived of their right to self-determination. H e said the international community, big powers and international institutions should take notice of their plight because such painful incidents not only deprive people of certain regions of their rights but also lead to a series of human rights violationswhich are intolerable. He was addressing a gathering, attended largely by the parliamentarians, ambassadors, human rights activists, social workers and media persons here at the Aiwan-e-Sadr in connection with celebration of International Human Rights Day. The president, while expressing his resolve for the year's Human Rights Day theme 'Stand up for Someone's Right' Saturday urged the international community to exercise care in formulation of policies. There were also some political and administrative matters which might violate human rights, he observed and reminded the international community that no step should be takenwhichmight adversely affect the rights of others. The president noted that the problem arose when some internal and external elements interfered in the affairs of others by crossing the boundaries to protect their interests. If the situation in Pakistan was reviewed then this reality emerged that acts of extremism as a result of which freedom and human rights were violated occurred when external forces or internal elements overstepped their limits, he added. He said effective measures at the local, provincial and national level had been taken for implementation of the laws. Referring to the slogan for observing International Human Rights Day, he opined that it was the most suitable choice because as a Muslim our faith, as Pakistani our constitution, UN Charter as an international citizen and declaration of Human Rights made them responsible to renew their commitment for the cause. The president said to fulfil responsibility with regard to human rights they should begin with the self, instead of expecting society, social institutions, governments and international organisations to make the beginning. Minister for Human Rights Kamran Michael and Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Sardar Muhammad Yousuf were also present during the ceremony. The president and ministers also signed an e-paper to signify the importance of the day.—APP