In a recent development in the Malir district of Karachi, authorities have filed a First Information Report (FIR) against organizers and participants of a rally held in solidarity with Baloch protesters in Islamabad.
The FIR, lodged by SHO Mehboob Elahi of the Sharafi Goth Police Station, contends that the rally was conducted without the necessary permissions and involved the use of loudspeakers, protesting, and slogan-chanting in both Balochi and Urdu languages.
The report specifically notes allegations of anti-government statements made by some speakers at the event. It is estimated that between one thousand to fifteen hundred individuals have been named in the FIR.
In response to these legal actions, Dr. MahRang Baloch has highlighted what she describes as a pattern of false FIRs being filed against peaceful demonstrators of their public movement. According to Dr. Baloch, the latest FIR in Karachi is part of this pattern, targeting those protesting against the “Baloch genocide.”
Dr. Baloch argued that state efforts to suppress the public movement through force and violence would be futile, emphasizing the widespread support the movement has garnered nationwide.
This incident is not isolated. Previously, FIRs were registered against participants and organizers of the ‘Long March against Baloch genocide’ in various cities across Balochistan, Sindh, and Punjab.
Notably, Dr. MahRang Baloch, a leader of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) leading the protest in Islamabad, was earlier charged in an FIR filed at the Wada Machhiyoon police station in Khairpur, Sindh. This charge was related to allegations of inciting opposition against the state and the army.
This action against Dr. Baloch sparked condemnation from political and human rights activists globally, leading to criticism of the Sindh police and government. Following these events, the Sindh Police issued a suspension notice for the officer involved.