QUETTA: In a move condemned by human rights activists, the Government of Balochistan’s Home Department has reportedly included Dr. Shalee Baloch, Central Organizer of the Baloch Women Forum (BWF), along with two other activists, Nazgul and Syed Bibi Sharif of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee, in the Fourth Schedule under section 11-EE of the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997. The activists have been summoned immediately, a development that has sparked outrage among civil society groups.
The BWF described the notification as a “direct attack on the right to free expression and movement” and an attempt to suppress peaceful activism across the province. In a statement, the organization said the decision was taken “without considering the due course of procedure” and labeled it a “harassment tactic” against individuals advocating for human rights.
The statement further criticized the regional government, alleging that its excessive use of force has turned Balochistan into a site of political vendetta. “The ground has become a battlefield of revenge where law and ethics are ignored, while certain actors work under law enforcement agencies as agents,” the statement said.
The BWF emphasized its commitment to human rights and peaceful activism, vowing to continue raising awareness about violations faced by the indigenous population. The organization also announced plans to challenge the Fourth Schedule notification both legally and across political and social platforms.
“Such acts are only meant to curb peaceful voices, which we have consistently condemned, and will continue to denounce in every forum,” said the Central Spokesperson of the BWF.
This development highlights the increasing tension between civil society activists and state authorities in Balochistan, raising concerns over freedom of expression and the use of anti-terrorism laws against political activists.
