Two human rights organisations have called for the release the Baloch protesters who were detained on Wednesday for allegedly pelting stones at policemen during a protest.

In separate statements, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan and the Amnesty International South Asia and Regional Office expressed their concerns over the development.

“HRCP strongly condemns the violent police crackdown on Baloch protestors in Islamabad, with women, children and the elderly subjected to unwarranted force in the form of water cannons and use of batons,” the HRCP said in a post on X on Thursday.

On Wednesday, the Islamabad police stated that they arrested several protesters after they pelted stones at them. They added that action as per law would be taken against those who blocked the roads.

Police urged people to not to be a part of any illegal gathering or violent demonstration. They also called for keeping women and children away from violent protests.

According to the HRCP, numerous women protestors have reportedly been arrested and separated from their male relatives and allies.

“This treatment of Baloch citizens exercising their constitutional right to peaceful assembly is inexcusable. It also reflects how little the state thinks of the protesters’ demand that their right to life and liberty be upheld,” it said and demanded release of all those detained.

The organisation further called on the government to organise a delegation to meet the protesters and give their legitimate demands a fair hearing.

The Amnesty International South Asia, Regional Office said that it has reviewed videos showing water cannons, tear gas and batons being used against the protestors.

The organisation reiterated that the government should release all protestors and drop any charges brought against.

On Thursday, the federal capital police said they were on alert to deal with any untoward incident.

“The Islamabad police personnel are busy performing their duties in the Red Zone and other areas. Citizens are requested to cooperate with the police officers on duty,” it said.