Why have rights groups condemned Pakistan for the enforced disappearance of a university lecturer?
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Synopsis
In a disturbing turn of events, human rights organizations are voicing strong objections to the enforced disappearance of Balach Khan Bali, a lecturer in Balochistan. This case raises critical questions about the safety of educators and the ongoing human rights violations in the region, emphasizing the need for immediate action and accountability.
Key Takeaways
- Human rights organizations are condemning enforced disappearances in Balochistan.
- Balach Khan Bali was abducted while returning home from the market.
- His case highlights the dangers faced by educators in the region.
- Calls for immediate action and investigation are growing stronger.
- The trend of enforced disappearances is alarming for the academic community.
Quetta, Dec 4 (NationPress) A coalition of prominent human rights organizations and advocates expressed outrage on Thursday over the forced disappearance of university lecturer Balach Khan Bali by Pakistani security forces in Balochistan.
This alarming incident is part of a broader trend of oppression characterized by a rise in cases of enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and torture throughout the region.
According to local reports from Paank, the Human Rights Department of the Baloch National Movement, Balach Khan Bali, age 36, was taken by the Pakistan Army on December 3 while he was returning home from Salala Bazar in Turbat, located in the Kech district.
“Balach, a dedicated Computer Science lecturer at the University of Turbat, is renowned for his commitment to his students and his contributions to higher education in the area. His disappearance has left his family, colleagues, and the academic community in deep anguish,” stated Paank.
In a statement denouncing the incident, Baloch Voice for Justice (BVJ) characterized it as part of an ongoing trend of enforced disappearances in Balochistan.
This rights group has called upon human rights organizations to thoroughly investigate Balach’s case and advocated for transparency and his immediate release. They also emphasized the necessity for credible inquiries into the conduct of Pakistani security forces in Balochistan.
In a separate statement on social media, Shalee Baloch, central organizer of the Baloch Women Forum (BWF), asserted that Balach’s enforced disappearance signifies a reluctance on the part of Pakistani institutions to foster an educated Baloch society.
“We have witnessed an increase in the enforced disappearance of educated individuals. Students have long been at risk of arbitrary detention by security forces, and now, this disturbing trend is expanding to include teachers, lecturers, and professors,” Shalee Baloch stated on X.
“In this state, it seems that teachers and students are perceived as threats. The focus should be on fostering a welfare society and achieving positive societal outcomes, which should be a primary objective for any nation. However, the reality is starkly different here,” she added.
Shalee labeled Balach’s unlawful detention as a direct assault on the societal progress of the Baloch people. She called for his safe and immediate release, asserting, “We cannot allow our educated class to be imprisoned without legal justification.”
Point of View
We must support calls for transparency and accountability, ensuring that the voices of those advocating for justice are heard and acted upon.
NationPress
04/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Balach Khan Bali?
Balach Khan Bali, a lecturer at the University of Turbat, was forcibly taken by Pakistani security forces on December 3, raising concerns about human rights violations in Balochistan.
Why are human rights organizations concerned?
Organizations are alarmed due to the rising trend of enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and torture in the region, which threatens the safety of educators and the academic community.
What actions are being called for?
Human rights advocates are urging for a thorough investigation into Balach's case, calling for transparency and his immediate release while demanding accountability from security forces.
Who is Shalee Baloch?
Shalee Baloch is the central organizer of the Baloch Women Forum, who has voiced concerns about the implications of Balach's disappearance for the educated class in Balochistan.
How can the public help?
Public awareness and advocacy are crucial. Supporting human rights organizations and spreading the word about these issues can help pressure authorities for accountability and justice.
