The Diktat

Some of the restrictions and fundamental rights that have been suspended in Pakistan after the state of emergency declared by President Gen...

Some of the restrictions and fundamental rights that have been suspended in Pakistan after the state of emergency declared by President Gen Pervez Musharraf:

• Article 9 of Pakistan’s constitution safeguarding life and liberty has been suspended. Several opposition lawmakers and activists have been detained.

• People can be arrested without being informed of their offense and denied access to lawyers under emergency powers.

• The right to free movement has been suspended.

• Constitutional protection of property rights are also suspended.

Story continues below this ad

• Citizens have been barred from assembling in public. Political parties will therefore be unable to address rallies ahead of planned new year parliamentary elections.

• A suspension of the right to free speech will likely check the country’s vocal opposition groups.

• Provisions giving equal rights to all citizens before law and equal legal protection have been suspended.

• New rules curtail media coverage of suicide bombings and militant activity. Broadcasters also face a three-year jail term if they “ridicule” members of the government or armed forces.