Islamabad, April 9, 2025: The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) and the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) on Wednesday strongly condemned a Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) inquiry targeting former senator Farhatullah Babar, calling it a “baseless and politically motivated” attempt to harass a respected public figure.
According to media reports, Babar was summoned by the FIA’s Anti-Corruption Cell in Islamabad just before the Eid holidays in response to a complaint filed by a private citizen from Rawalpindi’s Morgah area. The complaint accused Babar of corruption, tax evasion, and illicit asset accumulation.
Sources confirmed that Babar appeared before the FIA and requested the agency to provide a copy of the complaint, along with any supporting documents — including Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) notices — related to the allegations. He is expected to submit documents regarding his income and assets following Eid.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), the HRCP denounced the inquiry, raising questions about its timing and credibility, especially considering Babar’s track record as a staunch advocate for human rights and democracy.
“Based on a private citizen’s complaint, the timing of this probe raises serious doubts as to its legitimacy,” HRCP stated, adding that Babar — a key figure behind progressive legislation and a member of HRCP’s Governing Council — has long been a vocal critic of state excesses.
The Commission warned that the case appears to be another example of the state weaponising legal tools to intimidate dissenters, setting a dangerous precedent against those who champion civil liberties and institutional accountability.
“HRCP stands in solidarity with Mr. Babar and demands the immediate withdrawal of the inquiry, along with a public apology from the state,” the statement concluded.
PPP MNA and Central Information Secretary Shazia Marri also criticised the FIA’s actions, terming the inquiry “deeply regrettable.”
“It is extremely concerning that a baseless inquiry has been initiated against Farhatullah Babar,” Marri said. “For decades, Babar sahib has stood with the oppressed, advocated for human rights, and demanded justice with unwavering integrity.”
She noted that Babar has not held any public office for over a decade, calling the probe “ridiculous” and politically suspect. She warned such tactics erode public trust in institutions and dishearten those who speak truth to power.
