On November 26, 2024, Islamabad descended into chaos as state-sponsored violence reached unprecedented levels. Peaceful protesters responding to Imran Khan's #FinalCall for democratic accountability and his release from illegal incarceration faced a brutal crackdown. The government, failing in its duty to protect its citizens, unleashed live ammunition on unarmed demonstrators. Reports from credible sources like Al Jazeera confirmed automatic gunfire aimed at silencing voices advocating for their constitutional rights.

The regime went further to block roads from Punjab and surrounding areas, effectively sealing Islamabad with containers to deter peaceful assembly. This suppression marked a chilling erosion of democracy, amplified by widespread reports of electoral fraud, politically motivated detentions, and efforts to undermine judicial independence, such as the controversial 26th amendment.

The events of November 26 culminated in horrifying violence at D-Chowk, where snipers targeted unarmed protesters. Live rounds were fired with apparent intent to kill, resulting in over 20 confirmed deaths, numerous injuries, and many individuals still missing. Eye witnesses report hundreds of deaths and life-threatening injuries. The regime swiftly erased evidence of their actions and the interior minister chillingly celebrated this violence, exposing a disregard for human rights and the value of human life.

This violent repression is a stark violation of Pakistan’s obligations under national and international human rights conventions. It demands immediate attention from the global community. An impartial investigation into this crackdown must address the use of lethal force against peaceful citizens, systematic suppression of freedoms, politically motivated charges, and the specific atrocities of November 26.

As global citizens, we demand:

1. An impartial, international investigation into the events of November 26, 2024, to uncover the truth and ensure accountability for the perpetrators of violence.
2. Return of the bodies of the deceased to their families.
3. Release of all records of dead and injured which have been confiscated by authorities.
4. Immediate cessation of excessive force against peaceful protestors in Pakistan and guarantees of their safety.
5. Restoration of democratic freedoms, including the release of political prisoners and protection of the people’s right to voice dissent.

We appeal to the United Nations, human rights organizations, and the global community to act swiftly. Injustice anywhere threatens justice everywhere. Join us in demanding transparency, accountability, and the safeguarding of democratic principles in Pakistan. Sign this petition and stand with the people of Pakistan. Their fight for justice is a fight for all of us.

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Reference:

• Snipers deployed in Islamabad
• Hundreds of casualties as snipers opened fire
• Peaceful protestors fight for justice - Dispatch from Islamabad 
• Islamabad Massacre
• Carter Center Statement on Unrest in Pakistan
• Pakistan army and police accused of firing on Imran Khan supporters
• Doctor's Statement: All records of dead and injured have been confiscated by authorities
• Urgent and transparent investigation is needed into the deadly crackdown on protesters