Why Are Baloch Women Activists Disappearing?
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Synopsis
The ongoing crisis of enforced disappearances in Balochistan raises urgent questions about human rights violations against women. As families suffer in silence, international organizations are called to action. This article delves into the alarming cases of Mahjabeen and Nasreen Baloch, shedding light on the urgent need for accountability and justice.
Key Takeaways
- Enforced disappearances in Balochistan are a growing concern.
- The VBMP is actively protesting against these violations.
- Cases like Mahjabeen Baloch highlight the plight of women activists.
- International intervention is crucial for justice.
- Human rights organizations are calling for accountability.
Quetta, Nov 26 (NationPress) The Chairman of the Voice for Baloch Missing Persons (VBMP), Nasrullah Baloch, has raised alarming concerns regarding the enforced disappearances of women activists in Balochistan, Pakistan, particularly spotlighting the case of Mahjabeen Baloch, who has been unaccounted for over the last six months.
During a press briefing in Quetta, Nasrullah detailed a recent incident where Pakistani security forces executed a raid at a residence in Hub Chowki, leading to the arrest of Nasreen Baloch. He stressed that she has been taken to a location that remains undisclosed, urging for her prompt recovery, as reported by Pakistan's prominent daily, Dawn.
Nasrullah expressed his distress over the lack of information provided to Nasreen's family, which has resulted in significant anxiety for them. He mentioned that the family reached out to the VBMP regarding her disappearance, prompting the organization to bring the issue to light.
He also highlighted the case of Mahjabeen Baloch, a student at the University of Balochistan, who was apprehended at Quetta Civil Hospital in May. Despite the passage of six months, she has not been presented in any court, and her family remains uninformed about her situation.
Meanwhile, the VBMP continues its protests against enforced disappearances outside the Quetta Press Club.
In a statement released on social media, the VBMP noted that their protest camp against these enforced disappearances is ongoing for its 6010th day under the guidance of Nasrullah Baloch.
On November 22, various human rights organizations condemned the enforced disappearance of a young Baloch girl during a raid by Pakistani forces.
The Baloch Voice for Justice (BVJ) reported that 15-year-old Nasreena Baloch was allegedly abducted during a raid in the Daroo area of Hub Chowki.
“The targeted raid and subsequent disappearance of a minor underscore the escalating pattern of oppression faced by Baloch women and girls,” the BVJ stated.
The rights organization has called upon international human rights bodies, including the United Nations, to take urgent action to safeguard Baloch women from intimidation and harassment by Pakistani authorities.
They have also demanded the immediate and safe return of Nasreena and urged the Pakistani government to fulfill its obligations under international human rights law by ceasing enforced disappearances and holding perpetrators accountable.
Expressing outrage, the Baloch Women Forum (BWF) has called for Nasreena's swift release, asserting that her detention has disrupted societal standards.
According to the BWF, she has been transferred to an undisclosed location, with no information provided to her family, nor has she been brought to the local police station.
“In recent years, the victimization of women has escalated through various means. Beyond societal challenges, they are facing direct state violence, including enforced disappearances, alongside Baloch men. This includes previous incidents involving Sayad Bibi, Sakeena, and others, highlighting a disturbing trend of state-led abductions against the indigenous Baloch population,” the BWF elaborated.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the grave concerns surrounding enforced disappearances in Balochistan. The plight of women activists like Mahjabeen and Nasreen Baloch serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing human rights violations in the region. We must advocate for transparency, accountability, and justice for the affected families, ensuring their voices are heard.
NationPress
27/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the VBMP?
The Voice for Baloch Missing Persons (VBMP) is an organization advocating for the rights of missing individuals in Balochistan, particularly focusing on enforced disappearances.
Who is Mahjabeen Baloch?
Mahjabeen Baloch is a Baloch woman activist and student at the University of Balochistan, reported missing for six months.
What are enforced disappearances?
Enforced disappearances refer to the abduction or imprisonment of individuals by state or political organizations, followed by a refusal to acknowledge the deprivation of liberty.
What actions are being taken against enforced disappearances?
Organizations like the VBMP and various human rights groups are protesting and calling for international intervention to address enforced disappearances.
How can international organizations help?
International organizations can advocate for human rights, pressure the Pakistani government to investigate disappearances, and provide support to affected families.
