Why is Pakistan Condemned for the Extrajudicial Killing of Youth in Balochistan?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Extrajudicial killings are part of a disturbing trend in Balochistan.
- The Baloch Yakjehti Committee is actively condemning state-sponsored violence.
- Human rights violations include enforced disappearances and torture.
- Local organizations demand justice and accountability from authorities.
- Education and academia are under threat in Balochistan.
Quetta, Dec 5 (NationPress) The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) has vehemently denounced the recent extrajudicial killing of another young individual by Pakistani forces in Balochistan.
This latest act of violence occurs amid a persistent cycle of oppression characterized by a rise in extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and torture throughout the region.
The BYC reported that the lifeless body of Abdul Wahab, aged 33, was found in the Pull Abad area of the Panjgur district on December 4, following his enforced disappearance nearly a month ago by state-backed death squads.
According to local sources cited by the rights organization, Wahab came from a financially challenged family and worked as a driver to sustain his household.
“The ongoing instances of extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances highlight the alarming trend of the ‘kill and dump’ strategy and the intensifying state violence perpetrated by Pakistani intelligence agencies and their affiliated militias,” the BYC stated.
On the previous day, the Baloch Women Forum (BWF) condemned the “unlawful detention” of Balach Khan Bali, a lecturer at the University of Turbat, characterizing it as an effort to silence Baloch academia and the digitalization movement.
The BWF demanded the immediate and unconditional release of Balach Bali, asserting, “Balochistan has devolved into a battleground where local populations are routinely harassed and interrogated regarding their societal connections.”
“Enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, intimidation, and threats have become the norm employed by security forces to stifle not only indigenous voices but also academics, writers, journalists, students, and legal practitioners,” they added.
Furthermore, the BWF remarked that Balochistan, despite its territorial significance, continues to endure a scarcity of resources. They criticized Pakistan’s notorious institutions for working against the interests of the indigenous populace by diminishing available resources in education.
“The disappearance of Balach Bali is merely a continuation of the systematic practices endorsed by state institutions. We urge the state to cease targeting national assets who are diligently working to promote and digitalize the indigenous language,” the BWF stated.
“A classroom can only serve its purpose when both teachers and students are assured safety and security... We demand Balach Bali’s immediate and unconditional release,” they concluded.