GENEVA: United Nations independent human rights experts have expressed grave concern over the double life sentence handed down to Baloch human rights defender Dr. Mahrang Baloch, describing it as contrary to the principles of justice.
The experts said anti-terrorism laws and murder charges should not be used to suppress peaceful protest and freedom of expression and called on Pakistani authorities to ensure the protection of the rights of Dr. Mahrang Baloch and other detained human rights defenders.
The statement follows the participation of a Baloch National Movement (BNM) delegation, led by Chairman Dr. Naseem Baloch, at the 62nd Session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva in June, where the delegation held meetings with UN Special Rapporteurs and human rights officials.
During those meetings, the delegation raised concerns regarding human rights violations in Balochistan, including the imprisonment of Dr. Mahrang Baloch, the misuse of anti-terrorism laws, enforced disappearances, and collective punishment in Balochistan. According to BNM, UN officials at the time indicated they would coordinate with relevant Special Procedures to explore issuing a joint communication or statement on Dr. Mahrang Baloch’s case and the broader human rights situation in Balochistan.
Responding to Tuesday’s statement, the BNM Foreign Department welcomed the experts’ remarks, saying they reflect growing international concern over the human rights situation in Balochistan. The department said the attention of international institutions to actions taken against Baloch human rights defenders marks an important step toward justice and accountability.
The BNM Foreign Department added that it has remained in continuous contact with UN human rights mechanisms, Special Rapporteurs, and related institutions, sharing documented information on Human rights violations in Balochistan as part of its sustained diplomatic efforts.
The organization urged the international community, the UN and human rights institutions to continue monitoring the situation in Balochistan, take effective measures to protect human rights defenders and increase pressure on Pakistan to meet its international human rights obligations.
The development comes as several international human rights organizations have also raised concerns over the legal proceedings against Dr. Mahrang Baloch and other Baloch activists, calling for transparent judicial process and respect for fundamental rights.
