Balochistan: Detained Baloch Leaders Seek Transfer of Cases Over Fair Trial Concerns

SHAAL, BALOCHISTAN: The detained leaders associated with the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), including its head, Dr Mahrang Baloch, have formally requested that their ongoing cases be transferred to another court, citing concerns about bias and unfair treatment.

In a letter addressed to the Balochistan Bar Council, the BYC leaders, Sibghatullah Shah Ji, Bebo Baloch, Gulzadi Baloch, and Beebarg Baloch, stated that they have been in custody for nearly a year and are currently facing trial in multiple cases.

They said that proceedings at the Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Quetta have been marked by partiality, adding that the court’s conduct violates fundamental human rights and undermines the principles of a fair trial.

According to the letter, the detainees had previously raised similar concerns during a court appearance on February 7, 2026, where they expressed a lack of confidence in the presiding judge. They argued that certain remarks and orders issued during hearings have eroded their trust in the judicial process, leading them to believe that a fair trial is not possible under the current circumstances.

The leaders further emphasised that their objections regarding judicial bias were not handled in accordance with legal procedures, stating that their concerns were neither adequately considered nor referred to a higher court.

Calling for intervention, they urged the Balochistan Bar Council to approach the High Court to ensure that their cases are transferred to an impartial forum. They emphasised that such a move is necessary to uphold the integrity of the judicial process and guarantee a fair trial.

The letter concludes by highlighting the judiciary’s role as a cornerstone of the state, expressing hope that justice will be delivered without further delay, particularly for marginalised people who rely heavily on the courts for redress.