A group of Baloch protesters have issued a three-day ultimatum to the state, demanding an end to enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings in their province. The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) has demanded the immediate release of all detained demonstrators and the dropping of charges against them. They warned that if their demands are not met, they will be “compelled to take harsh steps” and hold the state responsible.
The protesters claim that over 100 detained members have not been presented in court and are considered “missing.” The long march, led by Baloch women, started in Turbat after a youth was allegedly killed by the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) officials and reached Islamabad on Wednesday. The police used force to disperse and detain the demonstrators, leading to strong condemnation from human rights organizations, politicians, and analysts.
The BYC has demanded the withdrawal of FIRs against peaceful protesters and the release of over 100 missing students. They also called for a UN fact-finding mission to investigate human rights violations in Balochistan, the acceptance of the CTD’s involvement in the alleged staged fake encounter, and the shutting down of CTD and death squads supported by state agencies.
Negotiations between a government committee and the protesters have taken place, with both sides agreeing to continue talks. The Supreme Court Bar Association has urged the government to prioritize dialogue and resolution, expressing deep concern over the recent crackdown on the protesters.
Meanwhile, British-Pakistani writer Mohammed Hanif returned his Sitara-i-Imtiaz in protest against the state’s treatment of Baloch citizens, and climate activist Greta Thunberg voiced solidarity with the protesters.