Why is There a Surge in Enforced Disappearances by Pakistani Forces in Balochistan?
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Synopsis
The alarming rise in enforced disappearances in Balochistan highlights a severe human rights crisis. As families live in fear and uncertainty, international organizations raise urgent concerns about state-sponsored violence. This report uncovers disturbing patterns of repression against civilians, emphasizing the need for accountability in the face of impunity.
Key Takeaways
- Enforced disappearances in Balochistan are at an alarming rate.
- Multiple cases reported across various districts.
- International organizations are calling for urgent action.
- Victims often include civilians and students.
- Families of the missing live in constant fear.
Quetta, June 14 (NationPress) A Baloch human rights organization has vehemently denounced the escalating incidents of enforced disappearances in Balochistan, where civilians are reportedly being abducted by Pakistani security forces with total impunity.
The Human Rights Department of the Baloch National Movement, known as Paank, disclosed that on June 11, Dil Jan, the son of Basheer Ahmed and a resident of Turbat, was forcibly taken by Pakistani security forces at the Ormara checkpoint located in the Gwadar district.
According to the statement released on Saturday, Abid Aziz, son of Abdul Aziz and a law student in his second semester at the University of Balochistan, was abducted by law enforcement while returning home from the university library on June 13, 2025.
Paank reported that there were approximately 128 cases of enforced disappearances in Balochistan during May alone. In the same timeframe, 35 individuals were released after enduring severe mental and physical torment throughout the province.
The report highlighted that numerous incidents of enforced disappearances and unlawful detentions were documented across 15 districts of Balochistan, including 10 cases from Karachi, Sindh.
The organization pointed out that the Gwadar and Kech districts recorded the highest frequency of forced disappearances.
On May 13, Bakhshullah, son of Wahid Bakhsh, from Maksar in the Dasht tehsil of Kech district, was forcibly taken from his residence by security personnel. That same day, Shah Bakhsh, son of Ismail Mouki and also a resident of Maksar, was abducted during another raid.
In its report, Paank mentioned that in May, death squads operating under the auspices of Pakistani security forces targeted two different homes in the Tump area of Kech district with hand grenades, resulting in injuries to innocent children and women, instilling a state of extreme fear.
The report further outlined the alarming human rights violations occurring in Balochistan, with a specific emphasis on enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings, revealing a persistent pattern of state-led repression, unlawful detentions, and targeted executions by security forces.
Expressing deep concern, the rights body stated that these recurring incidents form a disturbing and systematic pattern of state violence in Balochistan, affecting students, civilians, and entire communities.
Despite repeated calls for action from international human rights organizations like Amnesty International and urgent appeals from United Nations experts, the Pakistani government continues to overlook fundamental human rights in Balochistan. These warnings have not succeeded in curbing the tide of state-sponsored oppression. Enforced disappearances remain alarmingly prevalent, with individuals being taken without warrants, often held incommunicado, and subjected to torture. Families of the missing are left without answers or avenues for justice, living in a constant state of fear and uncertainty.
Point of View
It is vital to acknowledge that the ongoing situation in Balochistan is not just a local issue but a significant human rights concern that requires immediate attention. The stories of those affected by enforced disappearances must be brought to light and addressed with the seriousness they deserve.
NationPress
15/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are enforced disappearances?
Enforced disappearances occur when individuals are abducted by state agents or their proxies, and their fate or whereabouts remain unknown, often leading to a lack of accountability.
What is the current situation in Balochistan?
The situation in Balochistan is dire, with a reported surge in enforced disappearances, illegal detentions, and human rights violations by security forces targeting civilians.
What actions have been taken by international organizations?
International organizations, including Amnesty International, have raised concerns and issued calls for the Pakistani government to respect human rights and put an end to enforced disappearances.
How can individuals help the affected families?
Individuals can raise awareness about the situation, support human rights organizations working in the region, and advocate for justice and accountability.
What measures can be taken to prevent further disappearances?
Increased oversight, accountability for security forces, and legal reforms are crucial to preventing further enforced disappearances and protecting human rights.
