Paank Condemns Pakistan’s New Anti-Terrorism Law Amid Balochistan Disappearances

Quetta [Pakistan], September 6: The Baloch rights organization Paank has strongly criticized recent changes to Pakistan’s Anti-Terrorism Act. These amendments give extensive powers to military and civil armed forces, which Paank argues undermine human rights and the rule of law.

The Pakistani government has granted security forces the authority to detain anyone suspected of planning an armed attack. This decision comes amid ongoing atrocities and enforced disappearances in Balochistan.

In a post on X, Paank stated, “The provision allowing for the detention of any individual on mere suspicion of potential terrorist activities is a direct violation of international standards on the right to liberty and security. Such laws pave the way for arbitrary arrests and detentions, potentially leading to abuses including torture, which contravene the principles of a fair trial and due process.”

Paank emphasized that the lack of robust judicial review threatens the right to a fair trial, a cornerstone of democratic societies. They stressed that every person has the right to undergo a judicial process, and such laws destroy basic human rights.

Paank also pointed out that the broad definitions of terrorism or threats to national security could be misused to suppress peaceful protests, political opposition, and freedom of expression. This vagueness does not meet the principle of legal certainty required under international law.

While the intent to streamline investigations might seem legitimate, Paank raised concerns about the composition and operation of Joint Investigative Teams, which involve intelligence agencies with less transparency. This could lead to significant human rights violations without adequate accountability.

These laws could severely restrict freedom of assembly and expression. Paank warned that the ability to detain individuals based on such broad criteria could have a chilling effect on civil society, journalism, and political activism, effectively silencing dissent.

Earlier on September 2, a young man named Dad Shah Baloch went missing from Turbat city in Balochistan. He was allegedly detained by Pakistani forces. Two other individuals, Nasrat and Dad Dost, went missing on August 30 after being detained by Pakistani forces in the Konshkalat area of Balochistan’s Tump. Their whereabouts remain unknown, causing serious concerns among residents and human rights organizations.

Local communities and advocacy groups have called for greater transparency and accountability regarding the actions of Pakistani security forces in the area. According to reports, more than 55,000 people are missing from various areas of the region. The international community, including various UN bodies and human rights organizations, has expressed concerns and urged the Pakistani government to address the issue comprehensively.