Turbat: A seminar was held in Turbat to mark the ninth anniversary of the enforced disappearance of Shabir Baloch, former Secretary General of the Baloch Students Organization (BSO) Azad. The event was jointly organized by his family and the Baloch Women’s Forum, with the participation of political and social leaders, human rights activists, and families of other disappeared persons.
Dr. Shalee Baloch, Chairperson of the Baloch Women’s Forum, said in her address that “the state is pursuing a policy of genocide in Balochistan, and this is a continuation of the notorious ‘kill and dump’ practice.” She emphasized that Shabir Baloch was not just an individual but an ideology, and that hundreds of ideological workers continue his vision.
Professor Ghani Parwaz, Regional Coordinator of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP), called enforced disappearances a blatant violation of Pakistan’s constitution and international human rights laws. He demanded the immediate release of all disappeared persons or their prosecution through legal means if any charges exist.
Senior leader of the Baloch Yekjehti Committee (BYC), Syed Bibi Baloch, described Shabir as a patriotic son of Balochistan who worked alongside Banuk Karima Baloch in the political struggle, for which he was abducted. Political activist Gulzar Dost criticized state policies, saying enforced disappearances and killings were part of a deliberate strategy of oppression that must end.
Shabir Baloch’s sister, Seema Baloch, delivered an emotional speech, questioning, “Is politics a crime in Pakistan that its punishment is enforced disappearance?” She said her family still waits for Shabir’s smile and laughter but has found no justice.
During a panel discussion, Fouzia Baloch, Advocate Majeed Dashti, and the mother of missing student Israr Baloch also spoke. They stressed that enforced disappearances continue unabated in Balochistan, leaving families in deep psychological trauma. Advocate Dashti said, “Detaining any citizen incommunicado is a clear violation of the law and constitution, and the state’s failure to recover Shabir and others is unacceptable.”
Moderator Nasreen Baloch concluded that enforced disappearances are not only human rights violations but also inflict long-lasting mental and social suffering across the community.
Participants expressed hope that their voices would finally reach decision-making corridors and that justice would be delivered for Shabir Baloch and all other disappeared persons.
