Report – English
Paank has released a comprehensive report on the state of human rights for December 2023. The continued string of human rights violations by Pakistani forces during this period has sparked grave concerns regarding ongoing atrocities against the Baloch populace. Paank, the human rights entity within the National Movement, has urgently implored international organizations to intervene and address this distressing situation.
December witnessed a series of enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and a sustained crackdown on the peaceful March, a movement advocating for justice and accountability.
A detailed review presented by PaanK reveals alarming statistics regarding human rights violations in Balochistan. According to this data, the Pakistani army enforced the disappearance of 54 individuals from various regions, while 32 people were eventually released and reunited with their families after enduring prolonged forced disappearances.
PaanK highlighted two cases of extrajudicial killings in December. These included the tragic death of Sharif Bugti at the hands of FWO officials and the killing of ‘Zahir son of Abdul Samad’ by state-sponsored death squads.
The catalyst for the Long March against the Baloch Genocide, as emphasized by PaanK, stemmed from the tragic incident at ‘Ban-e-Kandak’ near Turbat. This event spurred mass protests following the custodial killing of Baloch Mulabakhsh. Despite facing obstacles and violent responses from authorities, the movement gained momentum and garnered support from various communities across Pakistan.
PaanK’s report extensively detailed the harsh and uncompromising government response. This included the filing of multiple FIRs against human rights leaders and attempts to suppress protests by erecting barricades at many locations. Additionally, court orders for fair investigations and the suspension of officers involved in Balach’s murder were left unimplemented.
Upon their arrival in Islamabad, PaanK’s report shed light on further adversities faced by Long March participants, with over 200 people, including women and children, subjected to arrest, torture, and mistreatment. Nevertheless, the movement received substantial national and international public support.
In an appeal to international human rights organizations, PaanK urged these entities to rally global public opinion and hold the Pakistani army accountable for the ongoing atrocities.
“The situation in Balochistan remains dire as peaceful protesters persistently endure repression and the denial of fundamental rights. This appeal stands as a crucial demand to end atrocities and ensure justice for the Baloch nation,” reiterated PaanK.
Concluding the report, PaanK emphasized, “The call for international intervention isn’t solely for the present but marks a significant historical need to address the decades-long systematic atrocities, marginalization, and human rights violations faced by the Baloch nation. It’s imperative.”
