Author: Qadeer Baloch
The suspension of Sadia Baloch is neither new nor surprising; it was anticipated. Silencing powerful voices has always been a top priority of those in power. The suspension of Sadia is part of a broader policy aimed at suppressing Baloch voices. It was expected that the state would use any means at its disposal to silence Baloch social activists. In this case, the state used Chief Security Officer Colonel Ubaid, who is essentially a “yes-man,” to suspend Sadia Baloch due to her activism. Sadia’s only “crime” is that she has consistently exposed the brutal acts committed by the state.
Let’s delve into Colonel Ubaid’s past activities since his tenure at Punjab University. Colonel Ubaid is neither a true Chief Security Officer of the institution nor do his actions reflect the responsibilities of such a position. Instead, he operates as a puppet, deeply involved in the harassment of students, particularly Baloch students. He is the one who provides comprehensive information on Baloch students to state officials. He has repeatedly threatened Baloch students with dire consequences, not only for themselves but also for their families, if they do not comply with his demands. Furthermore, he has been involved in the abduction of Baloch students.
One notable incident involves the abduction of Beebagr Imdad, a Baloch student, from Punjab University under Colonel Ubaid’s supervision. Colonel Ubaid shamelessly, along with his guards, managed to abduct Beebagr and hand him over to unknown individuals. Following Beebagr’s abduction, a case was filed against this incident. When Colonel Ubaid was questioned by the court about his illegal actions, he claimed that the unknown individuals were his friends and had asked for his assistance. The court condemned his actions in the strongest terms and warned him against repeating such behavior. The court also reminded him that the security of students is his primary responsibility, and if he fails to protect them, he will be responsible. However, when the legal team confronted him outside the courtroom, Colonel Ubaid remained silent, refusing to justify his actions.
Despite the court’s warning, Colonel Ubaid continued to harass students and pressured them to quit their studies. Shortly after Beebagr’s incident, Colonel Ubaid circulated a fake picture of a woman in a traditional Balochi dress, claiming that she was a suspect who had entered Punjab University. This act was a deliberate attempt to create fear among Baloch female students and harass them. This created an environment of fear among the Baloch female students. When Baloch students confronted Colonel Ubaid about this shameful act, he concocted an illogical story, essentially lying to cover his tracks. When the Baloch students resisted this baseless action, the CSO ordered his security guards to tear down the pictures and not show them to anyone. The University of Punjab itself dismissed this act as baseless and stated on social media clarifying that no such incident had occurred.
Following this incident, a group of unknown individuals visited the boys’ hostels, demanding complete data from the students, and promising scholarships in return. When Baloch students inquired with the administration whether this team was part of the university staff, the administration stated that no such order had been given, and no staff members were involved. The administration further clarified that if any scholarship program was announced, students would be notified through departmental channels. This was yet another attempt to profile and harass Baloch students.
Last year, Baloch students approached the administration regarding their academic issues. Despite assurances, the administration remained a silent spectator. After numerous efforts, the administration failed to provide a positive response, leading the Baloch students to stage a sit-in protest. In the middle of a cold night, the Chief Security Officer of Punjab University ordered his guards to assault the protesting students with sticks. The guards set fire to wood and used it to beat the Baloch students. Many students lost consciousness and had to be hospitalized.
Time and again, the CSO has been involved in torturing, suppressing, and harassing Baloch students. His blatant actions have been highlighted on multiple forums, yet no action has been taken against him. Colonel Ubaid exerts total control over the university, holding more power than even the Vice-Chancellor. He has created his pocket organization in the name of Jamiyat, which he uses to achieve his objectives. This organization has been authorized to create chaos within the university, thereby increasing the perceived necessity of the CSO to maintain order. He is the man behind every issue in the university, and all students are under his surveillance. Those who dare to stand up against brutality are swiftly subdued by the CSO.
Colonel Ubaid’s actions have consistently undermined the rights and safety of students, particularly those from marginalized communities. His repeated offenses demand immediate and decisive action. Colonel Ubaid must be held accountable for his actions and suspended from Punjab University. His accountability is urgently needed to restore peace and protect the rights of all students.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Balochistan Post or any of its editors.