Paank, the human rights department of the Baloch National Movement (BNM), has released its monthly report for May 2023, documenting the alarming practice of enforced disappearances in Balochistan. The report reveals that 25 individuals were forcefully disappeared by Pakistani forces during May, adding to the thousands who have suffered a similar fate.
The report also states that only 12 individuals were released from the Pakistan army’s dungeons but were mentally and physically tortured during captivity. The reasons behind these disappearances and the charges against the victims have never been explained. This continuous practice of enforced disappearances has severely damaged the physical and mental health of the Baloch people.
Paank says that it has investigated the suicide case of Najma, daughter of Dilsard, and found voice notes that prove Noorbaksh, son of Abdul Khaliq, a Pakistan army agent, was involved.
The report states that the Baloch people are subjected to unimaginable suffering, with women being harassed and forced into working as collaborators. The fear prevents individuals from speaking out against these injustices, leading to the people’s silent endurance. The case of Banuk Najma Baloch is highlighted as an example of the devastating consequences of human rights abuses. She was an educated and dedicated young woman who provided free education to children in her community. However, she took her own life due to the relentless harassment she faced from the Pakistani army and its agents.
Paank calls on the international community to take urgent action and intervene in the humanitarian crisis in Balochistan. Paank urges international organizations and human rights institutions to hold Pakistan accountable for these crimes and work towards ending these abuses.
The report reveals that the Pakistani army’s actions in Balochistan have resulted in grave human rights violations, including the restriction of movement for residents without the army’s permission and daily military operations. Thousands of individuals have been forcibly disappeared, while many others have died due to military aggression. Pakistan Army established armed squads, known as death squads, in various areas that recruit criminals and engage in activities such as harassment, theft, and even killing on behalf of the army.
In addition, the PaanK department of BNM recommends that human rights monitoring teams be deployed to investigate and document the situation on the ground. They also ask for support from organizations promoting human rights, protecting victims, and advocating for justice.
The PaanK Department highlights the severity of the situation in Balochistan and urges the international community to work collectively to ensure that rights are respected, protected, and fulfilled.