Baloch Activist Exposes Alleged State Brutality in Balochistan

Baloch activist Hakeem Baloch challenges Pakistan's claims of success in Balochistan, arguing that the state ignores political grievances while targeting civilians. The conflict, rooted in historical issues and economic exploitation, is exacerbated by enforced disappearances and human rights abuses, he states.

Baloch activist Hakeem Baloch has issued a strong rebuke to Pakistan's assertions of success in Balochistan, accusing the government of masking an unresolved conflict while victimizing civilians. As the Focal Person for the Baloch National Movement's Foreign Department, Baloch criticized Islamabad's claims of neutralizing over 140 militants in recent operations, arguing that the state has neither resolved the conflict nor addressed the so-called low-level insurgency.

Baloch expressed that Pakistan lacks both the ability to curb hostilities and effective intelligence. "Baloch fighters execute attacks, achieve their objectives, and depart," he stated. "In response, the Pakistani government detains ordinary Baloch civilians, unarmed individuals, political workers, and resort to enforced disappearances as a form of collective punishment." The pattern, according to Baloch, includes abducting Baloch activists, political workers, human rights advocates, and their families.

The ongoing conflict in Balochistan, the largest but least developed province of Pakistan, is deeply rooted in historical grievances tied to political disenfranchisement, economic exploitation, and militarization. Despite the region's rich natural resources, such as gas and minerals, local communities report minimal benefits, fueling resentment towards Islamabad. Human rights organizations cite widespread enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings, warning that the security-heavy approach is worsening tensions. Recent independent reports confirm numerous forced disappearances and illegal detentions, creating a pervasive atmosphere of fear among locals.

(With inputs from agencies.)