WHILE going through my Facebook feed, I came across a post stating that a brave lady I had admired was no longer among us. Sabeen Mahmud was gone. She was shot dead by unidentified men.

Rest in peace, Sabeen Mahmud. May God bless you and grant the noblest place in Heaven.

It is quite difficult for me to understand the reasons behind her killing. Was being a voice for the voiceless people her only crime? Sabeen Mahmud had started speaking for the rights the Baloch which was her only fault.

Frequently, missing people are found in mass graves with no records. When educated people start speaking for the rights of Balochistan, they are threatened and forced not to do. They are prevented from organising any discussions on Balochistan (eg the LUMS incident). And if they continue, they are silenced for ever.

The news of Sabeen’s assassination has saddened everyone with a heart and passion to fight for human rights. She will be remembered long for her efforts and will be an example for the coming generations, and her death will only further strengthen our determination to continue the fight for human rights in Pakistan and elsewhere.

Naresh Kumar

Abu Dhabi

Published in Dawn, May 3rd, 2015

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