Family of Abducted Baloch Activist Demands Justice at Press Conference in Awaran

QUETTA: The family of Dil Jan, a Baloch man forcibly disappeared by Pakistani forces in the Awaran district, Balochistan, held a press conference today at the Awaran Press Club to demand justice and his immediate release.

The family expressed their frustration and pain after six months of searching for Dil Jan, who was taken by the military on June 12, 2024, from his home in the Teertej area of Awaran.

The family emphasised that he was not involved in any illegal activities and had no ties to any militant group. They stated that despite multiple attempts to bring their case to local authorities, their cries for justice have been met with empty promises and false assurances.

 “Today, we stand before you with another painful story of helplessness. We have tried many times to make our voices heard, but instead of action, we have only been given false hopes,” said Dil Jan’s brother during the press conference.

The family members highlighted the dire situation in Awaran, where they said residents not only suffer from poverty and lack of basic services but also face constant human rights abuses, including enforced disappearances. “In Awaran, every day, young men are taken by the military. Our brothers, sons, and friends are taken from us, and their families are left in silence, enduring pain and grief,” they said.

They recounted the night of June 12 when four military vehicles arrived at their home, forcibly taking Dil Jan. “We immediately reported this to local officials, but we were told repeatedly that he would be released soon. Yet, six months later, we are still waiting for answers,” they added.

To seek justice for Dil Jan’s disappearance, the family organised a peaceful sit-in protest outside the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Awaran from October 3 to 6, 2024. The protest was joined by other residents who are also facing similar issues of enforced disappearances. During the protest, the Assistant Commissioner, the District Police Officer, and Mir Orangzeb Bizenjo met with the family and promised in writing that he would be released within ten days. However, the family claims that a month has passed, and the authorities have failed to fulfil their commitment.

“We were given written assurances that Dil Jan would be released, but a month has passed, and the government has not kept its word. The situation is unbearable for us. We have done everything possible to recover our brother, but the authorities are not taking our pain seriously,” said the family.

The family announced plans to hold a rally in Awaran City on November 18, 2024, to escalate their demand for Dil Jan’s release.

“We are determined to take this fight to the streets. We demand Dil Jan’s immediate release, or if there are any charges against him, we demand that he be presented in court,” they said.

They also made a public appeal to human rights organisations, senior officials, and media outlets to assist in their efforts. “This is our last hope. Perhaps your voice can help bring our brother back to us. We ask all human rights groups, the media, and influential authorities to take action and help us get justice for Dil Jan and all the missing persons in Balochistan,” the family concluded.