A politician and human rights activist from Pakistan's minority Sikh community based in Peshawar took to social media on Wednesday to appeal for safety for his family and himself.
In a 45-second video clip on Twitter, Radesh Singh Tony, who positions himself as an ambassador of peace and promoter of human rights, said: “My life was in danger. I have been thinking not only about myself, but also about the safety of my family, children, about their future."
He further stated: “I am issuing this appeal to save their future. I want see my family safe and sound. I am appealing to the Sikh community around the world to please take my family and me out of this place (Pakistan) to an area that is safe and secure for us. I am receiving calls which I am terrified of answering. Please rescue me.”
His appeals went out to the Canada-based World Sikh Organisation (WSO), the US-based Global Sikh Council (GSC), human rights watchdogs Amnesty International (AI) and Human Rights Watch (HRW), US President Donald Trump, and Pakistan-born Nobel Laureate Malala Yousufzai.
A group of netizens, including Muslims from Pakistan, extended their support for Tony with some asking him to move to India, while others suggested that he consider moving to Dubai, the US, Canada, or the UK.
Several netizens scoffed at his appeal for safety and rescue.
In general elections held in Pakistan in 2018, Tony stood as an independent candidate from Peshawar. He is a prominent member of the local Sikh community.