The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) members, including its leader, Dr. Mahrang Baloch, have been named in another baseless FIR in Mastung for organizing a peaceful program. Filing such FIRs has become a routine tactic, particularly by the Pakistan’s security forces, to undermine peaceful activism. This systematic misuse of the law by the state and its law enforcement agencies (LEAs) targets the Baloch people, discriminating against them based on their identity and resistance to ongoing repression. While the law is ostensibly the same for all, it is applied differently to the Baloch.
The peaceful rally held in Mastung was intended to raise awareness about the upcoming program commemorating Baloch Genocide Day, scheduled for January 25 in Dalbandin. The rally witnessed massive participation from Mastung and neighboring areas and adhered fully to legal norms. However, the police claimed it violated Section 144 — a colonial-era law originally enacted by British rulers. Since last year, hundreds of FIRs have been filed against BYC leaders and members, primarily by the police, intelligence agencies, and security forces. Despite courts dismissing these FIRs as baseless, new cases are being registered daily.
The Baloch Yakjehti Committee strongly condemns these apartheid-like and colonial tactics aimed at silencing political workers across Balochistan. The global community and human rights organizations must take urgent notice of these discriminatory practices. Such oppressive measures will not weaken the resolve of the Baloch nation or its leadership.