ASK calls for probe into Radda clinic demolition, police response

The Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) has called for an independent investigation into the demolition of a health centre in Mirpur-1 and the reported role of law enforcement agencies during the incident.

In a press release today (28 September), the rights organisation condemned the overnight attack, looting and vandalism at the Radda MCH-FP Centre on 25 September, followed by the demolition of its buildings using heavy machinery.

Citing media reports, ASK said around 200-250 people entered the centre, tied up two security guards and looted medicines, vaccines and medical equipment before demolishing one permanent and three semi-permanent buildings.

The centre had provided maternal and child healthcare, reproductive health services, family planning and vaccination services since 1974, particularly to low-income communities, women and children.

ASK said the demolition had severely disrupted essential healthcare services for local residents.

The organisation also raised concerns over the reported inaction of police, noting that the centre is located near a police station and that law enforcement was reportedly informed while the incident was underway.

ASK said an impartial investigation should establish when police were informed, what steps they took and why the demolition could not be prevented.

It also called for those involved in the attack, including its planners, instigators and backers, to be identified and brought to justice.

“If negligence or inaction by law enforcement is established, those responsible must also be held accountable,” ASK said.

The rights organisation urged the government to restore the centre’s services as soon as possible and ensure continued access to healthcare for women, children and other residents of the area.

ASK said the incident raised broader concerns about the rule of law, public safety and state accountability, stressing the need for an impartial investigation and visible accountability.