Islamabad, The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has issued a strong condemnation of the government’s forceful response to the peaceful protest by Baloch citizens, who marched from Turbat to Islamabad. The protest was against the alleged extrajudicial killing of Balach Baloch and others in Turbat.

According to Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, the HRCP is deeply concerned about the violent actions taken by the state against the protestors. The commission reports that peaceful protestors, including women, children, and the elderly, faced excessive force, such as water cannons and baton charges. The HRCP further states that numerous women protestors were arrested and separated from their male relatives and allies, and at least one Baloch woman journalist covering the march has also been detained.

The HRCP asserts that the treatment of Baloch citizens, who were exercising their constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression, is unacceptable. The commission criticizes the state’s response, describing it as a failure to uphold its constitutional and moral responsibilities in protecting and fulfilling the rights of all citizens.

The HRCP urgently calls for the immediate and unconditional release of all those detained during the protest. It also urges the government to form a delegation to meet with the protestors, listen to their legitimate demands, and commit to respecting the rights of the Baloch people. Additionally, the HRCP demands a prompt and transparent investigation into the widespread use of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings, emphasizing the need for accountability for those responsible for these actions.