Lahore, January 12:The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed deep shock and grief at the murder of parents of Justice Javed Iqbal, a senior judge of the Supreme Court, andcondemned the killing as “absolutely unconscionable”.

A statement issued on Wednesday said: “HRCP is shocked at the brutal murder of Justice Javed Iqbal’s aged parents in a locality that is considered safe from criminal activities. We condole with the bereaved family. HRCP would not like to comment on the motives behind the absolutely unconscionable killing until the matter has been thoroughly investigated. However, if there is even the slightest indication that this is some kind of a message to the judiciary, that would be an even more sinister incident than the ghastly murders. The incident only underlines the state of disorder and lawlessness and the extent of perils to life and liberty even in the country’s main cities. Such incidents strain the people’s sense of patriotism to the breaking point and cast doubts on the government’s ability and entitlement to rule. Mere apprehension of the culprits would not do. The people must be given due assurances that guarantees of life and liberty are more than mere words.”

Dr Mehdi Hasan

Chairperson