Lahore, 20^th January 2018: The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has been shocked and grieved at the passing on of Munnu Bhai: poet, dramatist, columnist par excellence and an ardent friend of the poor and the disadvantaged.

His contribution to the democratic dispensation in Pakistan is matchless, particularly during the 1970s and 1980s when Pakistan was under military rule, and is acknowledged by friend and foe alike. In whatever form he expressed himself, he was consistently a partisan of truth and the rights of the people.

HRCP had the privilege of having Munnu Bhai as a member of its governing body for three years and his counsel was always greatly valued by the organization.

He will be deeply missed for a long time by all whose lives he touched and the large number of admirers and distant friends.

Dr. Mehdi Hasan

Chairperson