Islamabad: The internet shutdown in Gwadar, Balochistan following the imposition of an emergency law to quell protests on 28 Dec must be reversed immediately Amnesty International said on Wednesday.

“Such disruptions are neither necessary nor proportionate, and inhibits the ability of the people of Gwadar to communicate, access information, seek safety and work,” Amnesty International said.

“In addition, the imposition of Section 144 in the name of public security should not become a pretext for more human rights violations - especially if they prevent people from peacefully protesting,” read the statement.

Amnesty International said it is concerned that both the internet ban and emergency law will serve as a springboard for further crackdown on people’s fundamental freedoms, including freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, right to personal security and freedom from arbitrary detention.

“We call upon authorities in Balochistan to immediately restore internet services and lift the ban on public gatherings,” read the statement.