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• Denounce use of excessive force against peaceful protesters
• Accuse authorities of misusing MPO to detain activists
• Voice concerns over alleged human rights violations by security agencies
LAHORE: Human rights activists and journalists have called on the prime minister to order the immediate release of detained Baloch leaders, including Mahrang Baloch and Sammi Baloch, ahead of Eidul Fitr.
In a joint letter addressed to the premier, the activists condemned the arrests of Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) leaders, calling it a blatant attempt to silence voices advocating against enforced disappearances and for fundamental rights in Balochistan.
They denounced the use of excessive force against peaceful protesters, describing it as a reflection of the culture of impunity within security forces in Balochistan. They also criticised the re-arrest of BYC leaders, including women activists, immediately after being granted bail.
“This blatant disregard for the rule of law and judicial process is a stark reminder of the systemic injustices faced by the people of Balochistan,” the letter stated.
The letter was signed by 109 notable personalities, including Munizae Jahangir, Afrasiab Khattak, Michelle Chaudhry, Usama Khilji, Farhatullah Babar, Arifa Noor, Hamid Mir, Tahira Abdullah, Zohra Yousaf, and Salima Hashmi.
The signatories accused authorities of misusing the Maintenance of Public Order law to detain activists despite court orders granting them bail, calling it a violation of due process.
They expressed grave concerns over ongoing human rights violations by security agencies, citing the use of force against peaceful demonstrators and the arbitrary arrests of BYC leaders as clear violations of international law.
The signatories demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all detained BYC members and the withdrawal of charges against them. They also urged the government to take concrete measures to end enforced disappearances, investigate all cases and hold those responsible accountable.
They also called for meaningful political dialogue with the Baloch people to address their concerns and grievances and work towards a peaceful resolution.
Additionally, they demanded an independent investigation into police brutality against BYC women activists and strict action against those responsible.
It said the ongoing crackdown on peaceful protests, enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings in Balochistan have created a climate of fear and repression.
“The situation in Balochistan is dire, and denying a political dialogue will only deepen the crisis,” they said.
They feared that the government’s refusal to engage in meaningful discussions with the Baloch people would perpetuate feelings of marginalisation and exclusion, further fuelling the conflict.
“It is imperative that the Pakistani government respects the rights of the Baloch people, including their right to protest and freedom of expression and release all those detained,” they said. “The government must also produce all those forcibly disappeared in a court of law and ensure a fair trial for those accused.”
The signatories urged authorities to initiate political dialogue with genuine Baloch representatives, both inside and outside legislative assemblies, to address grievances and work towards a peaceful resolution.
They emphasised that the government’s actions must align with international human rights law and the country’s own Constitution.
“The ongoing repression in Balochistan is a stain on Pakistan’s reputation and it is time for your government to take decisive action to address these concerns,” the letter maintained.
Published in Dawn, March 30th, 2025
