On 27 March, UN experts urged Pakistan to release detained Balochistan human rights defenders and cease the violence against peaceful protests. Leaders of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), including Mahrang Baloch and Sammi Deen Baloch, have faced police brutality for advocating minority rights. Following a deadly attack by Baloch separatists on 11 March, an alarming increase in detentions and disappearances of Baloch activists was noted, raising serious humanitarian concerns among the experts.
A protest in Quetta on 21 March turned tragic when police confronted BYC demonstrators demanding the release of their detained members; three individuals lost their lives, while many were injured and detained. In response, notable activists like Mahrang organised a sit-in to honour the deceased. Police retaliated on 22 March with heavy-handed methods, dispersing the protesters and arresting several, including Mahrang, who went unaccounted for for nearly twelve hours and was denied legal representation.
The repression continued with Sammi Deen Baloch’s arrest on 24 March during a protest at the Karachi Press Club against the crackdown on human rights defenders. Her detention was set for thirty days under public order regulations. The UN experts expressed deep concern for the welfare of all detained activists and demanded their immediate release, calling for accountability and an end to the misuse of anti-terror measures against those advocating for human rights in Balochistan.
The experts emphasised the importance of addressing underlying conditions that lead to terrorism, advocating for implementation of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy while maintaining communication with Pakistani authorities about these critical issues. Through focused dialogue, they seek to ensure the safety and rights of the Baloch community.
UN experts have demanded Pakistan release Baloch human rights defenders, namely Mahrang and Sammi Deen Baloch of the BYC, amidst escalating police violence. Following a deadly police confrontation during a peaceful protest, the experts expressed deep concern for the welfare of those detained and called for an end to abuses under anti-terror measures. They urge the Pakistani government to address the root causes of terrorism while advocating for human rights protection.
The urgent calls by UN experts spotlight the plight of Baloch human rights defenders like Mahrang and Sammi Deen Baloch, advocating for their immediate release. The escalation of police violence against peaceful protesters is alarming, highlighting a critical situation for minority rights in Pakistan. Continued dialogue and actions align with the UN’s strategies are essential for addressing the deeper issues of terrorism and human rights in the region.
Original Source: www.nationalheraldindia.com
