Pakistan Forms New Paramilitary Force Before PTI Protests
The Government of Pakistan has announced the formation of a new national paramilitary unit called the Federal Constabulary, just weeks ahead of a major protest campaign led by former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). The move has raised political and human rights concerns, especially over its timing and the manner of implementation.
National Scope and Expanded Powers
The Federal Constabulary will operate across the country and is expected to take over roles previously held by the Frontier Constabulary, which mainly functioned in tribal regions bordering Afghanistan. The new force will have authority in handling public order, crowd control, counter-terrorism, and providing internal security support, making it comparable in function to both paramilitary and police forces.
The change was enacted through amendments to the Frontier Constabulary Act and approved by President Asif Ali Zardari on July 14. The federal government aims to set up recruitment offices in all provinces and enforce training standards in line with national policing systems.
Political Opposition and Rights Concerns
The announcement comes just ahead of PTI’s planned nationwide protests on August 5, which mark the second anniversary of Imran Khan’s controversial arrest. PTI leaders have accused the government of using the new force as a tool to suppress political dissent. Party spokespersons demanded that such a significant security policy be debated in Parliament before implementation.
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan has also expressed concern, calling the decision hasty and warning that it could be misused to intimidate peaceful protesters. Critics argue that bypassing parliamentary scrutiny to raise a powerful internal force poses a risk to democratic processes.
Public Reaction and Next Steps
Government officials have defended the move, saying the country needs a modern force to address evolving internal threats. However, civil society groups are watching closely, warning that the force’s conduct during the upcoming protests will serve as an early test of its intent and accountability.
