Human Rights Groups Alarmed by Rising Enforced Disappearances in Balochistan

Quetta, Pakistan – Human rights organizations are increasingly concerned about the worsening situation in Balochistan, where cases of enforced disappearances are on the rise. PAANK, the human rights wing of the Baloch National Movement, released a report on Friday highlighting this critical issue.

The report describes enforced disappearances as a long-standing human rights violation affecting numerous families in Balochistan. It contains thorough research and ground-level testimonies from victims. PAANK has documented this disturbing trend, calling for increased pressure on the Pakistani government to investigate these incidents transparently and provide justice to the victims and their families.

Balochistan is Pakistan’s largest but least developed province, with its people demanding greater autonomy and control over their resources. These demands have often been met with brutal crackdowns from the Pakistani state, which views Baloch nationalist aspirations as a threat to national security. Since the early 2000s, reports of enforced disappearances in Balochistan have surged. Baloch political activists, students, journalists, and human rights defenders have been targeted, often accused of being separatists or collaborating with armed insurgent groups.

The families of the disappeared endure years of uncertainty, seeking justice through protests, hunger strikes, and petitions, often in vain. The report highlights key cases of enforced disappearances in Balochistan, with many still missing today.

Key Cases of Enforced Disappearances

One of the earliest known cases is that of Asad Mengal, a student and activist abducted on February 6, 1976, by security forces. Despite multiple attempts by his family to trace his whereabouts, no confirmed information about his fate has emerged since his disappearance. Mengal’s case marks the beginning of a pattern that continues to this day.

Another significant case involves Deen Muhammad Baloch, a medical doctor abducted on June 28, 2009, from his clinic in Ornach, Khuzdar district. Known for his medical services and involvement in Baloch nationalist politics, Deen Muhammad was taken by security personnel, but the government has denied any involvement. His daughter, Sammi Deen Baloch, has led protests and walked miles with other victims’ families to demand answers, but his fate remains unknown.

Data on Disappearances and Extrajudicial Killings

The report reveals that May witnessed the highest number of disappearances (90), while March saw the lowest (24). On average, 44.75 individuals have disappeared each month. The highest number of extrajudicial killings occurred in August (14), with January (11) also reporting a significant number. The months of March, April, and June reported the lowest numbers (2). On average, 5.25 extrajudicial killings occur each month.