More than 100 civil society members have written to Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, demanding the immediate release of Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) leaders, including Mahrang Baloch and Sammi Deen Baloch. They urged the prime minister to intervene and ensure their release before Eid, according to Geo News.
Condemnation of Arrests
The signatories strongly condemned the arrests. They described them as an attempt to silence voices advocating against enforced disappearances and for fundamental rights in Balochistan. Their letter was issued amid widespread shutter-down strikes in Balochistan and a protest in Karachi over the detention of BYC leaders.
Background on Arrests
Earlier this month, authorities arrested BYC chief organiser Dr. Mahrang Baloch and 16 activists from their protest camp on Quetta’s Sariab Road. The crackdown came a day after protestors alleged that three demonstrators died due to police actions. Additionally, security forces arrested BYC leader Sammi Deen Baloch during a demonstration in Karachi against these detentions.
Police Brutality and Legal Charges
The letter raised concerns over police brutality against BYC activists, especially women. It highlighted the excessive use of force against peaceful protesters, exposing what the signatories called a “culture of impunity.” Mahrang Baloch and other leaders were charged with serious offences, including terrorism, incitement to rebellion, and murder. An FIR was registered at the Sariab Police Station under Sections 7 and 11W of the Anti-Terrorism Act, along with 16 sections of the Pakistan Penal Code.
Support from Prominent Figures
Several notable Pakistani figures signed the letter. Among them were senior journalist Hamid Mir, former senator Afrasiab Khattak, Human Rights Watch Senior Counsel Asia Division Saroop Ijaz, and PPP leader Farhatullah Babar. They condemned the rearrest of BYC leaders immediately after they received bail.
Key Demands
The letter outlined several demands:
- Immediate release of detained BYC leaders
- An end to enforced disappearances
- Initiation of political dialogue with Baloch representatives
- Independent investigation into police brutality against women activists
Call for Justice and Human Rights Compliance
The letter urged the government to allow peaceful protests and engage in political dialogue. It stressed that continued suppression would worsen the crisis in Balochistan. Furthermore, the signatories asked the government to align its actions with international human rights laws and Pakistan’s own constitution to prevent further alienation of the Baloch people.
Urging the Government to Act
The letter emphasized the need for the government to respect the rights of the Baloch people, including their right to protest and freedom of expression. It demanded the immediate release of all detained activists. Additionally, it called for the production of all forcibly disappeared individuals in a court of law and a fair trial for those accused.
A Warning on Pakistan’s Reputation
In conclusion, the signatories stated that the ongoing repression in Balochistan damages Pakistan’s international reputation. They urged the government to take decisive action to address these concerns, stating, “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.”
