A surge of violence in Balochistan, particularly the Makuran region, has sparked outrage and condemnation from human rights groups.
The Baloch Women Forum (BWF) has issued a statement denouncing what they describe as a week of “relentless barbarity,” alleging state-sponsored terrorism, extrajudicial killings, and enforced disappearances.
The BWF claims these recent incidents are a stark reminder of the ongoing “Baloch genocide.”
The group highlighted several disturbing events:
*Targeting of Intellectuals: The BWF reported repeated attacks and harassment against Sharif Zakir, a respected teacher and scholar. They claim his son and cousin were abducted, underscoring a pattern of targeting prominent Baloch figures.
The group also reported the killing of Allah Dad, a young scholar, in Turbat on February 4, 2025, calling his murder a “devastating loss.”
* Enforced Disappearances and Murder: The case of Hayat Sabzal, who was allegedly forcibly disappeared by security forces in Turbat on July 3, 2024, and whose body was discovered in Panjgoor on February 11, 2025, has further fueled tensions.
The BWF described the discovery of his “mutilated body” as traumatizing for his family.
* Mass Disappearances: The BWF also reported the enforced disappearance of eleven Baloch youths in Pasni and Kulanch (Chakkuli), adding to the already high number of missing persons in the region.
* Forced Disappearance and Subsequent Release: The case of Asma Bibi, who was reportedly forcibly taken from her home by local state militias in the night of February 5-6, has drawn significant attention. Following public protests and road blockades, a video of Asma was released.
The BWF stated that while Asma was subsequently recovered, the perpetrators remain at large. The BWF asserts that the systematic targeting of Baloch youth, scholars, and intellectuals reveals a clear intent of “Baloch genocide.” They are calling on the international community and human rights organizations to take concrete action and condemn these alleged human rights violations and the ongoing violence in Balochistan.
The allegations raise serious concerns about the human rights situation in the region and are likely to increase calls for investigation and accountability.
