Balochistan, a province in Pakistan, has been plagued by the haunting specter of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings for decades. Despite efforts to address this heinous crime, the situation remains dire, with rising numbers of missing individuals and victims of extrajudicial violence. This blog sheds light on the pressing issues faced by the Baloch people, the challenges of reporting and accountability, and the urgent need for international attention and action.
Enforced Disappearances: A Trail of Fear and Despair
In July 2023, there has been a concerning surge in cases of enforced disappearances, making it the most alarming month of the year so far. A total of 57 individuals were forcefully disappeared following extrajudicial arrests. Out of these, 22 individuals were released after enduring torture in undisclosed detention centers, without any explanation for their alleged crimes.
Dera Bugti in Pakistan has become the primary focus of the Pakistan Army, with 15 reported cases of enforced disappearances in this region alone. During the military operations on the local population, significant damage was inflicted on their properties and livestock.
The Pakistan Army has been implementing a "kill and dump" policy in Balochistan for the past twenty years. This strategy involves staging fake encounters and falsely claiming that the victims of enforced disappearances were killed during these encounters. These deceptive tactics aim to cover up the serious crimes against humanity committed by the Pakistan Army and downplay the gravity of the enforced disappearance crisis.
In the preceding month, seven mutilated bodies were discovered in Balochistan, with victims coming from different districts, including Dalbanden, Nushki, Barkhan, Kech, and one unidentified body from Gwadar.
Extrajudicial Killings: A Grave Concern
Pakistani forces and paramilitary groups in Balochistan continue their campaign of extrajudicial killings, often disguised as fake encounters. This pattern of violence, including mass executions of forcibly disappeared individuals, remains a grave concern. In June, nine people fell victim to extrajudicial killings, and the bodies of four previously disappeared individuals were buried without proper investigation. The government's lack of action and response to demands for identification and DNA testing of abandoned bodies in Mastung district underscores the urgency for accountability and justice.
Revealing the Truth and Tragic Discoveries
Baloch nationalists, activists, and human rights organizations have consistently pointed fingers at Pakistani intelligence agencies and security forces, alleging their involvement in abductions and extrajudicial killings. Despite vehement denials by the Pakistani government, mounting evidence tells a different story.
During the reporting period, the search for missing persons did not culminate in joyful reunions for everyone. Tragically, four lifeless bodies were discovered, deepening the anguish and despair in Balochistan. The persistence of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings demands heightened attention from international bodies. A comprehensive resolution to address this ongoing human rights crisis is urgently needed.
Areas Affected by Enforced Disappearances
Enforced Disappearances by Pakistani Forces |
Enforced Disappearances |
57 |
Torture Victims |
22 |
Extrajudicial Killing |
7 |
Districts from where Extrajudicial Killing are reported
Districts |
Numbers |
Dalbanden |
2 |
Nushki |
1 |
Barkhan |
1 |
Kech |
1 |
Gwadar |
2 |
Conclusion: Seeking a Brighter Future
As the people of Balochistan endure the anguish and uncertainty brought about by these disappearances, the world must stand in solidarity with them. The international community, particularly the United Nations, must take notice of these atrocities, prioritize the protection of human rights, and work towards a resolution that brings an end to the suffering in Balochistan. Only then can the region hope for a brighter and more just future, free from the haunting specter of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings.
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