Mahrang Baloch Detained: Pakistani Activist's Fight for Rights
The detention of Mahrang Baloch and other BYC members has raised concerns about the erosion of human rights in Pakistan, particularly in Balochistan. The BYC's peaceful struggle against human rights violations and the state's repression of the organization have highlighted the need for international attention and support for the rights of the Baloch people. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the Pakistani authorities will respond to the growing demands for justice and accountability.
Dr. Mahrang Baloch, a 32-year-old leader of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), has been detained for over three months in Pakistan, subjected to harassment and mistreatment in prison, and denied basic rights. The BYC, a peaceful human rights movement, has been advocating for Baloch rights since 2020 and organizing protests against excessive use of force by the Pakistani state in Balochistan.
The Pakistani state has responded to the BYC's peaceful mobilization with a sweeping crackdown, arrests, disinformation campaigns, and detentions without due process. Mahrang believes that the state is attempting to criminalize her activism and silence the BYC's voice against human rights violations in Balochistan. The rise of extremist groups in the region has also threatened Mahrang and other BYC members, but she remains resolute in continuing the BYC's peaceful struggle.
Mahrang has been accused by the Pakistani military spokesperson of being a "proxy of terror" and an "evil face" in reference to her activism. However, she has responded that the accusations are baseless and that the military has not presented any evidence against her. The BYC has faced severe state repression, including violent crackdowns, arrests, and media campaigns to malign the organization. Despite the challenges, Mahrang remains committed to the BYC's peaceful struggle against human rights violations in Balochistan.
The BYC's efforts are part of a broader climate of repression in Pakistan, affecting movements across the ideological spectrum. Mahrang believes that it is imperative for all oppressed nations and communities to come together in a united struggle against the authoritarian regime in Pakistan. The arrest of prominent Baloch social activist Gulzar Dost has sparked widespread outrage, and the BYC has demanded his immediate release, accusing the authorities of being a tool of state repression.