Is There a Disturbing Rise in Abuses by Pakistani Forces in Balochistan?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The Human Rights Council of Balochistan has issued a stark warning about the escalating human rights violations in the region, with alarming rates of enforced disappearances and killings. The situation calls for urgent international attention and action.
Key Takeaways
- 113 cases of enforced disappearances documented in October.
- 31 killings reported, including men and women.
- Frontier Corps implicated in numerous incidents.
- High numbers of abductions occurring during house raids.
- Urgent need for international attention and action.
Quetta, December 1 (NationPress) A prominent human rights organization has raised alarms about a deteriorating human rights situation in Balochistan, highlighting a dramatic increase in enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and extensive violations perpetrated by Pakistani security forces.
In its recent report, the Human Rights Council of Balochistan (HRCB) revealed 113 instances of enforced disappearance and 31 killings in the province during October. This grim tally included 12 individuals who were killed after having been reported missing, alongside 4 abductions that occurred that month, and 9 cases of individuals who had vanished earlier.
“Of the total abductions, 93 occurred during house raids. Eighteen people were seized from streets and shops, while two were summoned to military camps before they vanished,” the report stated.
The findings indicate that the Frontier Corps (FC) was implicated in 64 cases of enforced disappearance, while the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) and various intelligence agencies each accounted for 19 instances. Furthermore, death squads allegedly backed by Pakistan executed 9 abductions, with rangers involved in 2 cases.
Panjgur emerged as the district with the highest number of enforced disappearances, recording 22 cases, followed closely by Kech with 20, Quetta with 19, Khuzdar with 12, and Dera Bugti with 11.
According to the HRCB report, 31 fatalities were documented in October across Balochistan, comprising 29 men and 2 women.
“Drone strikes accounted for 10 of these fatalities, while 9 individuals died while in custody. Targeted assaults led to 5 deaths, and 3 victims were killed in incidents identified as fake encounters. Two individuals succumbed to earlier injuries, and one case was categorized as an honor killing, with another instance involving the discovery of a body,” it explained.
The report further highlighted that the FC was responsible for 15 of the 31 killings, with death squad groups accountable for 7.
Khuzdar and Kech each reported 10 incidents, making them the districts most affected, followed by Panjgur with 4 and Dera Bugti with 3.
In addition to these atrocities, the HRCB noted the tragic death of a sick girl who was denied medical care during a prolonged overnight inspection of a passenger bus by Pakistani forces in Uthal city, Lasbela district, which left passengers stranded for hours.
Point of View
It is imperative to acknowledge the harrowing reality faced by the people of Balochistan. The reported incidents of human rights abuses are deeply concerning and warrant immediate attention from both national and international bodies. We stand for the rights of individuals and the pursuit of justice in the face of such grave violations.
NationPress
01/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current state of human rights in Balochistan?
The current state of human rights in Balochistan is alarming, with significant increases in enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings reported by the Human Rights Council of Balochistan.
Who is responsible for the reported human rights abuses?
The Human Rights Council reports that the Pakistani security forces, including the Frontier Corps and death squads, are primarily responsible for the majority of the abuses.
What measures are being taken to address these issues?
While various organizations are advocating for human rights, there is an urgent need for international pressure and intervention to hold responsible parties accountable.
How can individuals help raise awareness?
Individuals can help by sharing information, supporting human rights organizations, and advocating for the rights of the affected communities through social media and other platforms.
What can be done to improve the situation in Balochistan?
Improving the situation requires a concerted effort from both local and international communities to demand accountability and justice for victims of human rights violations.
