Protest Marks Six Years of Baloch Activist’s Enforced Disappearance

QUETTA: A protest rally in Balochistan’s industrial city, Hub Chowki, marked six years since the enforced disappearance of Baloch activist Rashid Hussain. Rashid was abducted in the UAE in 2018 and handed over to Pakistan without due legal process six months later. His whereabouts remain unknown.

Despite petitions filed in various courts, including the Sindh, Balochistan, and Islamabad High Courts, there has been no progress in locating him.

Rashid’s mother expressed her anguish, saying, “I have been searching for my son for six years, but no one is providing answers. If my son has committed a crime, present him in court. Keeping him missing for six years is unacceptable.” She appealed to international organizations and human rights bodies, calling her son’s disappearance a severe violation of human rights.

During a recent hearing, lawyer and human rights activist Imaan Mazari disclosed that Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs had acknowledged Rashid’s transfer to Pakistan but failed to provide any details about his location or condition.

The protest also highlighted the broader issue of enforced disappearances in Balochistan. Families of other missing persons joined the rally, sharing similar accounts of abductions and the absence of accountability. Aslam Baloch’s father lamented, “My son has been missing for several years. We are only given false promises and reassurances.”

Political leaders and activists criticized the government and state institutions for their inaction and suppression of dissent. Former BSO Pajjar chairman Wahid Raheem stated, “Enforced disappearances have become routine in Balochistan, and affected families are often threatened or silenced. This is a violation of both the constitution and basic human rights.”

Protesters called for the immediate recovery of Rashid Hussain and all missing persons. They demanded accountability and legal action against those responsible. The rally also urged the international community to intervene, address this humanitarian crisis, and ensure justice for the affected families.