Veteran Baloch political activist, Zaheer Baloch aged over 75—has been released after nearly one and a half months of illegal detention. He was arrested on Eid-ul-Fitr for participating in and expressing solidarity with the families of forcibly disappeared persons during a peaceful protest.
Zaheer Baloch was held under Section 3 of the Maintenance of Public Order (3 MPO), despite no formal charges being filed. His health reportedly deteriorated significantly during his time in custody. According to family sources, despite visible signs of medical distress, prison authorities denied him access to hospital care, resulting in the complete failure of his lungs.
Requests for hospital transfer by his family and legal representatives were repeatedly ignored by jail authorities. Following continued pressure and efforts for his release, Zaheer Baloch was finally freed and transferred to a hospital, where he remains in critical condition.
His case has sparked renewed concern over the treatment of political detainees in Balochistan, particularly the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. Human rights groups have condemned his detention and called for an independent investigation into the medical negligence he suffered.
