Justice Behind Bars: Controversial Court Hearing in Quetta Jail Raises Concerns

Baloch Yakjehti Committee leaders, including Mahrang Baloch, faced a hearing inside Quetta Jail rather than a court, a move criticized as institutional repression. This decision impedes transparency and fair trial standards. The next hearing is on October 18, with the prosecution ordered to present formal charges.

In a development raising significant concern, a recent hearing for Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) leader Mahrang Baloch and other detained officials was held inside Quetta District Jail rather than the customary Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC). The Balochistan Post (TBP) reports that this decision, made public on Sunday, is slammed by the organization as a 'worrying example of institutionalised repression.'

Sharing a statement on platform X, the BYC indicated the judicial remand for their leaders has been extended by ten days. Apprehended in March under the Maintenance of Public Order ordinance, Mahrang Baloch, along with Sibghatullah Baloch, Beebow Baloch, Beebarg Baloch, and Gulzadi Baloch, have had their detention extended repeatedly. The organization condemned conducting hearings in prison, asserting it is a calculated strategy to stifle transparency and criminalise peaceful political dissent.

According to TBP, Advocate Israr Baloch, representing Dr. Mahrang, confirmed that the hearing on Saturday was presided over by Judge Muhammad Ali Mubeen of ATC-1 at Quetta District Jail. Notably, prosecutors failed to present the challan, delaying formal charges and the trial's commencement. The hearing is adjourned to October 18, with instructions for the prosecution to submit the challan by then.

(With inputs from agencies.)