A Baloch rights activist and several others have been booked by the Quetta police for their alleged involvement in a protest against enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings on May 18. The FIR against the activist has sparked widespread condemnation from journalists and activists, with many taking to social media to express their support and call for an end to state institutions' unfair treatment of peaceful Baloch. The lockdown of the Press Club on the day of the protest has been seen as a violation of press freedom and has even prompted a boycott of a session of the Balochistan Assembly by journalists.
Background
Balochistan, Pakistan's southwestern province, has been plagued by a longstanding pattern of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings. The victims, often political activists, students, and journalists, are abducted by security forces or unidentified assailants and held without due process or legal accountability.
The issue gained international attention in 2005, when the UN Working Group on Enforced and Involuntary Disappearances reported over 1,000 cases in Balochistan. Despite promises from the government to end the practice, disappearances and killings have continued unabated.
Recent Events
On May 18, 2023, a protest was held in Quetta, Balochistan's capital, to mark the "Baloch Missing Persons Day." The demonstration was organized by the Baloch Human Rights Organization (BHRO) and other rights groups.
During the protest, the police arrested several activists, including Baloch rights activist Nasrullah Baloch. The police also raided the Quetta Press Club, where journalists were covering the event.
Alleged Police Involvement and Condemnation
An FIR (First Information Report) was registered against Nasrullah Baloch and other activists, accusing them of "sedition" and "inciting violence." The FIR sparked widespread condemnation from journalists, activists, and human rights organizations.
Many took to social media to express their support for the detained activists and call for an end to the state's unfair treatment of peaceful Baloch dissenters. The lockdown of the Press Club on the day of the protest was seen as a violation of press freedom.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. Why are enforced disappearances happening in Balochistan?
The reasons for enforced disappearances are complex, but they often involve government attempts to suppress political dissent and maintain control in a volatile region.
2. Who is responsible for the disappearances?
Security forces and unidentified assailants have been implicated in the disappearances. However, the government has denied responsibility, despite evidence to the contrary.
3. What is the government's response to the issue?
The government has repeatedly promised to end enforced disappearances, but these promises have not been fulfilled. In some cases, the government has even been implicated in the cover-up of disappearances.
4. What is the impact of enforced disappearances on Balochistan?
Enforced disappearances have created a climate of fear and uncertainty in Balochistan. They have also eroded public trust in the government and the security forces.
5. What can be done to address the issue?
The international community, human rights organizations, and the Pakistani government must work together to end enforced disappearances in Balochistan. This includes holding perpetrators accountable, providing reparations to victims, and implementing measures to prevent future disappearances.
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