Balochistan Government Adds Many to Anti-Terror Watch List
The Balochistan government has listed a large number of individuals on the Fourth Schedule under the Anti-Terrorism Act. This action imposes severe restrictions, including a ban on passport issuance, freezing of bank accounts, and prohibition on financial support.
Mahrang Baloch, a prominent Baloch activist, condemned the move, stating it targets peaceful individuals and family members of activists. She said, “The government is turning Balochistan into a mass internment camp to control, dictate, oppress, and change the thoughts of the people.”
In Quetta alone, 137 people were added to the Fourth Schedule in July, including students, activists, writers, lecturers, and professors. Mahrang Baloch’s brother, Nasir Baloch, who has no connection to political activism, is also on the list.
She urged civil society, the media, international human rights organizations, and political stakeholders to speak out against this misuse of the law. The list also includes Baloch Qadir, chief of the Baloch Student Organisation, and Secretary General Samand Baloch and Shakoor Baloch.
NP President Dr. Malik Baloch stated that 3,000 people are set to be added to the Fourth Schedule.
Doubts Revealed
Balochistan -: Balochistan is a province in Pakistan. It is located in the southwestern region of the country and is known for its mountainous terrain and rich natural resources.
Anti-Terror Watch List -: An Anti-Terror Watch List is a list of people who are suspected of being involved in terrorist activities. Being on this list can lead to strict monitoring and restrictions on one’s activities.
Fourth Schedule -: The Fourth Schedule is a part of the Anti-Terrorism Act in Pakistan. It includes the names of people who are suspected of being involved in terrorism, and they face severe restrictions on their movements and activities.
Anti-Terrorism Act -: The Anti-Terrorism Act is a law in Pakistan designed to prevent and punish acts of terrorism. It gives the government special powers to deal with suspected terrorists.
Activist -: An activist is a person who works to bring about social or political change. They often speak out against injustices and work to improve society.
Mahrang Baloch -: Mahrang Baloch is an activist from Balochistan. She speaks out against actions she believes are unfair or harmful to people in her community.
Civil Society -: Civil society refers to organizations and groups that work to improve society and help people. These can include non-profits, community groups, and other organizations that are not part of the government.
International Organizations -: International organizations are groups that operate across different countries to address global issues. Examples include the United Nations and Amnesty International.
Quetta -: Quetta is the capital city of Balochistan province in Pakistan. It is an important cultural and economic center in the region.
NP President Dr. Malik Baloch -: Dr. Malik Baloch is a political leader and the president of the National Party (NP) in Balochistan. He has served in various political roles and is known for his work in the region.