Pakistan’s political system is once again in the spotlight after the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) strongly criticized the lifetime immunity amendment passed under the 27th Constitutional Amendment. According to HRCP, the amendment undermines democratic accountability, weakens judicial independence, and concentrates unchecked power in the hands of a few influential public office holders.

This article provides a detailed 1500+ word analysis, covering all aspects of this development — including its impact on democracy, legal implications, public reactions, human rights concerns, and what it means for Pakistan’s future governance structure.

1. Introduction – Why the Lifetime Immunity Controversy Matters

The passage of a lifetime immunity amendment is a major political development in any country, but in Pakistan’s already fragile democratic environment, it carries even more weight. According to HRCP, this step risks damaging state institutions, weakening public trust, and tilting the balance of power in favor of a small group of office holders who may no longer fear accountability.

The rights watchdog argues that Pakistan is going through a sensitive time — socially, economically, and politically — and any constitutional change that reduces transparency can push the country toward greater instability.

2. What Is the Lifetime Immunity Amendment? (Simple Explanation)

The 27th Constitutional Amendment, as criticized by HRCP, reportedly grants lifetime immunity to certain public office holders. This means:

They cannot be prosecuted, even after leaving office
Their actions while in office cannot be challenged
They gain a permanent shield against legal accountability

Such a lifetime protection limits the ability of courts, the parliament, and the public to question actions taken by those holding powerful positions.

3. Why HRCP Opposes the Lifetime Immunity Amendment

HRCP has raised multiple concerns regarding the new amendment:

a. Concentration of Power

The amendment creates unchecked authority, reducing safeguards that protect citizens from misuse of power.

b. Threat to Judicial Independence

If powerful office holders become unaccountable, courts lose the ability to ensure justice.

c. Weakening Democracy

Democracy requires accountability. Without it, the imbalance between the executive, judiciary, and parliament increases.

d. Damage to Public Trust

People already have limited trust in institutions. Immunity will further reduce confidence in the justice system.

4. How the Lifetime Immunity Amendment Affects Pakistan’s Democratic Structure

A healthy democracy depends on:

Accountability
Separation of powers
Independent institutions
Transparency

Lifetime immunity threatens all these pillars. Legal experts say that no public office holder should be above the law, especially not for life. The amendment may indirectly encourage corruption, abuse of power, and political manipulation.

5. HRCP on the Need for Strong Local Governments

Apart from criticizing the amendment, HRCP highlighted the urgent need for elected and empowered local governments. According to HRCP:

Local governments allow public participation
They strengthen grassroots democracy
They help ensure better service delivery
They reduce over-centralization of power

Pakistan’s local governments have historically been underfunded and frequently dissolved, which has weakened democratic processes at the local level.

6. HRCP Concerns About Security Operations in KP and Balochistan

HRCP also expressed concerns about the way security operations are being conducted in:

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP)
Balochistan

The Commission warned that counter-militancy operations must not violate basic human rights, such as:

Freedom of movement
Freedom of expression
Right to due process
Protection from arbitrary detention

Strong security measures must not be used to justify abuse or the suppression of legitimate dissent.

7. Internet Shutdowns – A Major Human Rights Issue

HRCP criticized repeated internet shutdowns, especially in rural and conflict-prone regions. The Commission noted that these shutdowns have harmed:

Students (online classes, submissions, learning)
Daily wage workers (who rely on online platforms)
Businesses and freelancers
Local communities

Internet restrictions are often implemented without clear justification, and HRCP demanded that the government end this practice immediately.

8. HRCP Calls for Investigations Into Custodial Torture & Extrajudicial Killings

HRCP raised serious concerns regarding:

Custodial torture
Enforced disappearances
Killings during raids
Abuse of power by CTD and CCD personnel

The rights body emphasized that such incidents create a culture of impunity, where security officials believe they are not answerable to the law.

HRCP demanded:

Transparent investigations
Accountability of officers involved
Legal reforms to prevent future abuse

9. Alarming Situation of Afghan Refugees in Pakistan

HRCP strongly criticized the treatment of Afghan refugees, saying:

Many are being detained
Some are harassed
Others are being deported, even when they face persecution
Families are being separated

The Commission urged the government to:

Stop forced deportations
Ensure due legal process
Protect vulnerable refugees
Consider signing global refugee protection conventions

Pakistan has hosted millions of Afghan refugees for decades, and HRCP believes the country must maintain humane policies even in difficult circumstances.

10. Concerns About Rising Reports of Sexual Harassment

The report also highlighted increasing complaints of sexual harassment in:

Schools
Colleges and universities
Workplaces

HRCP urged institutions to:

Establish stronger reporting mechanisms
Introduce clear accountability systems
Train staff and students on prevention
Ensure the protection of victims and whistleblowers

11. Why This HRCP Statement Is Important for Pakistan’s Future

The HRCP statement matters because:

✔ It highlights weakening democratic institutions

✔ It raises questions about constitutional changes

✔ It pushes for transparency and accountability

✔ It demands fair treatment of vulnerable groups

✔ It reminds authorities of their legal and moral responsibilities

At a time when Pakistan faces political uncertainty, economic pressure, and rising security threats, strengthening human rights protections is more important than ever.

12. Public Reaction & Political Response

The political and public reaction to the amendment has been mixed:

Critics say:

The amendment protects the powerful
It increases the risk of corruption
It reduces judicial independence
It undermines democratic values

Supporters argue:

It prevents “political victimization”
It ensures continuity of governance
It protects officials from politically motivated cases

However, HRCP maintains that no form of immunity should be permanent, and accountability must remain central to democratic governance.

13. Possible Long-Term Consequences for Pakistan

If not reviewed or reversed, the lifetime immunity amendment could lead to:

Weakening of judicial checks
Uncontrolled executive power
Increasing corruption risks
Reduced public confidence
Suppression of dissent
International criticism on human rights grounds

These outcomes could slow down Pakistan’s democratic development and increase institutional instability.

14. Conclusion

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan has issued a strong warning: lifetime immunity for public office holders is dangerous for democracy. Their statement highlights concerns across multiple sectors — from judicial independence to refugee rights, internet freedom, and security operations.

Pakistan’s future depends on transparency, accountability, and the equal application of law. Any constitutional amendment that protects individuals permanently can undermine these principles.

This is a crucial moment for policymakers to reconsider the amendment and ensure that democratic institutions remain strong, independent, and accountable.

FAQs (Important & Short Answers)

Q2: Why is HRCP against the amendment?

Because it weakens democracy, reduces accountability, and threatens judicial independence.

Q3: How does the amendment affect public trust?

It lowers trust by making officials appear above the law.

Q4: What did HRCP say about Afghan refugees?

They warned that refugees face detention, harassment, and deportation without due process.

Q5: What reforms does HRCP demand?

Independent investigations, stronger local governments, an end to internet shutdowns, and better protection of human rights.

Human Rights Body Slams Lifetime Immunity for Public Office Holders – Detailed Analysis & Latest Update

1. Introduction – Why the Lifetime Immunity Controversy Matters

2. What Is the Lifetime Immunity Amendment? (Simple Explanation)