A glimmer of hope emerged in Islamabad as police announced the release of all detained Baloch protesters. This comes after days of tension and criticism following the brutal crackdown on their peaceful march demanding an end to enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings.
Despite the release, tensions remain high. The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), organizing the march, still considers over 100 students as “missing” and demands their immediate release, withdrawal of FIRs against peaceful protestors, and acceptance of their long march’s charter of demands.
The charter seeks:
- Independent investigation: A UN Working Group-led fact-finding mission into Balochistan’s human rights violations.
- CTD accountability: Acknowledgement of Balach Mola Baksh’s alleged extrajudicial killing by the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD).
- Missing persons’ recovery: Return of all missing Baloch people, especially those with families present at the protest.
- CTD and “death squad” disbandment: Abolition of these allegedly abusive forces in Balochistan.
- Transparency: Public confession by the Interior Ministry regarding alleged “fake encounter” killings of forcibly disappeared persons.
Condemnation continues against the police:
- PPP Senator Raza Rabbani: Criticized the “high-handed” treatment of marchers, especially women and students.
- Human rights organizations, politicians, and the Islamabad High Court: Previously condemned the violence and detention of protestors.
Caretaker government stance:
- Negotiations ongoing: Interior Secretary emphasizes peaceful protests as a Pakistani right while upholding law and court orders.
- Release of most detainees: 90% released earlier, though discrepancies remain in numbers and claims of delays.
The situation remains fluid:
- BYC warns of “harsh steps”: Continued sit-in outside the National Press Club until demands are met, potentially escalating tensions.
- Call for dialogue: Rabbani urges Senate to involve all stakeholders in resolving the issue constitutionally.
A delicate balance is needed:
- Justice for detainees and missing persons: Addressing long-standing human rights concerns in Balochistan.
- Maintaining peace and law: Balancing protest rights with public safety and order.
Only time will tell if the recent release marks a genuine move towards resolving the grievances of Balochistan or just a temporary reprieve in a complex and long-standing struggle for justice.
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