BYC Urges Global Attention on Ongoing Crackdown and Detentions in Balochistan

SHAAL (QUETTA): The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) has issued a statement highlighting the ongoing state crackdown against its members, which has now entered its 41st day. The statement underscores the unlawful detention of over 300 activists, some of whom have been released, but many remain imprisoned in various jails, with no charges or legal justification.

According to the BYC, 4 individuals are currently detained in Sindh, while over 200 others are imprisoned in different jails across Quetta, particularly in Huda Jail. Despite multiple petitions filed in the high courts of Balochistan and Sindh, and several court orders for the release of detained individuals, including prominent Baloch activists Beebow and Gulzadi Baloch, the authorities have yet to comply with these rulings.

The BYC further revealed that, as recently as last Friday, the courts had issued clear instructions for the immediate release of those who had not been formally charged with any offences. However, by Wednesday, government lawyers had failed to present any legal or evidentiary basis for their continued detention. Despite these failures, state institutions continue to ignore the court’s orders, exposing the weakness of the judiciary and the government’s disregard for legal processes.

The statement also pointed out the disturbing trend of detaining minors, including a 16-year-old child, without any evidence or charges. The BYC has strongly condemned this violation of fundamental human rights, calling it part of a broader campaign of injustice targeting the Baloch people.

The Committee criticised the misuse of the 3MPO (Maintenance of Public Order) law and the continued silence of the courts, claiming that these actions demonstrate a complete disregard for the constitution and the rule of law in Balochistan.

The BYC emphasised that all decisions surrounding these detentions are being made through illegal and unconstitutional means, in direct violation of human rights.

In its closing remarks, the BYC has called on the international community, human rights organisations and the people of Pakistan to raise their voices against the ongoing state oppression, judicial inaction, and systemic violations of human rights in Balochistan. The Committee made it clear that the continued mistreatment of the Baloch people cannot be ignored any longer.