Geneva, March 26 -- Pakistan's human rights situation came under sharp scrutiny at a side event during the 61st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), where speakers raised concerns over political repression, enforced disappearances, and alleged violations of international obligations linked to Pakistan's GSP+ trade status.

Former Minister Zulfi Bukhari, associated with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, alleged a systematic crackdown on his party following the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan in 2023.

He claimed thousands of party workers were detained, political freedoms were curtailed, and civilians were tried in military courts. Bukhari further alleged that Khan has spent over two and a half years in prison und...