Pakistan forces behind killings, disappearances in Balochistan: Reports

QUETTA, Aug 4: A human rights report released on Monday revealed alarming human rights violations in Balochistan, with 785 enforced disappearances and 121 extrajudicial killings by Pakistani forces and state-backed “death squads” since the beginning of 2025. The report, published by Paank, the Human Rights Department of the Baloch National Movement, stated that on average, four people are forcibly disappeared and one is killed daily. Victims include students, journalists, and peaceful protesters, many abducted from major cities such as Karachi and Islamabad.
The report accuses Pakistani security forces and proxy death squads of operating with complete impunity. These squads are believed to silence dissenting voices and avoid judicial oversight, reflecting a consistent pattern of abuse aimed at suppressing criticism of state policies in Balochistan.
Recent incidents cited include the extrajudicial killing of Dil Jan Baloch on August 2, following his enforced disappearance on July 22 from Kech district. Another case involved Inayat Khair Mohammad, who was disappeared in December and reportedly killed on August 3 by similar state-backed groups.
The Human Rights Council of Balochistan (HRCB) noted that these squads act as proxies for state interests and highlighted the lack of accountability for their actions. The groups’ operations, according to HRCB, violate Pakistan’s obligations under international law, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), particularly the right to life and protection against arbitrary detention and enforced disappearances.
Human rights organisations have renewed calls for international scrutiny and independent accountability mechanisms to ensure justice and prevent further abuses in Balochistan. (IANS)