Human Rights Watch Urges Restraint Amid Balochistan Crackdown

Human Rights Watch calls on Pakistani authorities to show restraint during escalating tensions in Balochistan. Protesters have faced detentions, internet blackouts, and violent responses. A UK lawmaker has introduced a resolution condemning the crackdown and advocating for human rights and justice for missing persons in the region.

Amid escalating tensions in Balochistan, Pakistani security forces are cracking down on protestors, leading to urgent calls from Human Rights Watch for restraint. The NGO urges Pakistani authorities to release all detainees protesting peacefully and to restore internet access. Reports indicate several protesters have been detained in Hub Chowki and Karachi, demonstrating against alleged brutality by the administration.

Since July 28, 2024, hundreds have been detained in connection with the Baloch National Gathering. The march aimed to highlight human rights issues but faced severe resistance from government security forces, who allegedly used excessive force to prevent protesters from reaching their destination in Gwadar. The city has also been subjected to an internet blackout.

Patricia Gossman, Associate Asia Director at Human Rights Watch, emphasized the need for authorities to respect the right to peaceful protest. Gossman stressed that force should only be used when nonviolent means fail and highlighted the importance of protecting protesters' rights to prevent further escalation.

In the UK, lawmaker John McDonnell introduced a resolution denouncing the violent reaction of Pakistani security forces to a peaceful demonstration in Gwadar, organized by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC). The resolution, reported by The Balochistan Post, calls for restoring internet services, ensuring transparency about detainees, and ending violence against peaceful protests.

The resolution also points to the hazardous conditions for human rights advocates in Balochistan, citing the severe crackdown during the Baloch National Gathering that resulted in fatalities, arrests, and deprivation of basic necessities. The ongoing unrest involves significant human rights violations and demands for greater autonomy and equitable resource distribution in the province.

(With inputs from agencies.)