Why is Pakistan's Internet and Mobile Services Blackout in Balochistan a Human Rights Concern?

Islamabad, Aug 8 (NationPress) The Human Rights Council (HRC) of Pakistan has expressed strong disapproval towards the actions of Pakistani authorities for enforcing a blackout of internet and mobile services in Balochistan, labeling it a serious infringement of basic human rights.

"The Balochistan government's decision to halt 3G and 4G mobile and internet services throughout the province effective August 6 represents a harsh and unjust action that adversely impacts millions of innocent individuals. This move infringes upon essential rights like communication, freedom of expression, education, health, and employment," stated the HRC Pakistan.

The rights organization challenged the legitimacy of silencing an entire province and disrupting vital services such as education, health, and communication.

"The internet shutdown affects ordinary citizens more than it does any potential terrorists. This trend of collective punishment is detrimental to public trust and does little to combat terrorism," it added.

Citing various international human rights organizations, the HRC Pakistan pointed out that, as per the United Nations, internet access is a fundamental human right. It referenced comments from groups like Access Now, which remarked that "unjustified internet shutdowns are unlawful and excessive"; Amnesty International, which noted that "the shutdown not only suppresses information but also undermines democracy"; and Human Rights Watch, which highlighted that "punishing the entire populace in the name of security is a perilous precedent".

The HRC Pakistan called for the immediate reinstatement of internet and mobile services in Balochistan and urged for the implementation of targeted, modern strategies to tackle security issues instead of punishing the entire community. It appealed to the Supreme Court of Pakistan and the Balochistan High Court to take urgent action to ensure that the citizens of Balochistan enjoy the same civil and constitutional rights as those in other regions of the country.

Balochistan's citizens are currently advocating for their independence from Pakistan. Numerous human rights organizations in Balochistan have repeatedly brought attention to the oppression faced from Pakistani forces in the region, which includes violent raids on the residences of Baloch leaders and civilians, unlawful detentions, enforced disappearances, the 'kill and dump' policy, arrests under the Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance, and the fabrication of police cases.