LAHORE: The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has called upon President Mamnoon Husain to stay the hanging of Abdul Basit, a paraplegic man, which is scheduled for Tuesday (Sept 22) and grant him reprieve.

In a statement issued here on Sunday, the commission said:

“Human rights activists throughout Pakistan and beyond have been shocked to learn of the orders for the execution of convict Abdul Basit on Sept 22 despite the fact that the unfortunate man is paralysed from his waist below. HRCP is also shocked that the courts summarily dismissed the pleas for taking into consideration the provisions of international human rights instruments for special treatment of physically challenged people.

“According to information available to HRCP, Abdul Basit’s mercy petition is still pending with the presidency. In these circumstances the execution of Abdul Basit will offend against all norms of civilised justice, raise awkward questions about the Pakistan justice system’s insensitivity to humanitarian imperatives, and indict the State and society as brutal entities.

“HRCP strongly urges President Mamnoon Husain to stay the execution of Abdul Basit and grant him reprieve.”

Published in Dawn, September 21st, 2015

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