International digital news outlet AJ+ has faced criticism from rights advocates and Baloch activists after reportedly removing an online interview with Baloch human rights campaigner Yusuf Baluch shortly after its publication.
The interview, initially shared on social media, featured Mr Baluch discussing the deep-rooted issues affecting Balochistan, including what he described as state occupation, human rights violations, forced disappearances, and the environmental crisis gripping the region. Within a short period of being posted, the video was taken down, prompting online criticism and questions about editorial independence.
Several activists on X condemned what they described as censorship of critical voices.
Táj Balóch a journalist and columnist wrote: “Strange. @AJPlus has removed the interview of @yusufbaluch, an activist who discussed the situation of #Balochistan. Is this an ethical way of journalism?”
Abdullah Abbas Baluch, Executive Director of the Human Rights Council of Balochistan (HRCB), similarly questioned whether political pressures influenced the decision, tweeting: “Media censorship of Baloch voices in Pakistan has no limits. @ajplus removed its interview … Does Pakistan’s establishment have such deep influence over @AJEnglish that it decides which voices are seen and which are silenced?”
Another activist and journalist Naeema Zehri questioned: Hey @ajplus, why did you delete the video of Baloch activist @yusufbaluch? Erasing Baloch voices raises serious questions.
Noor e Maryam Kanwer said: This is how Pakistan censors dissidents and Baloch people internationally. It’s extremely rare that any genuine Baloch voice gets space internationally. Mostly its compromised people with a certain state agenda. Removing @yusufbaluch ‘s interview is a real low for @ajplus
These posts, widely shared by other commentators, reflect broader concern among some in the Baloch community regarding representation in international media and perceived reluctance to broadcast critical perspectives on Pakistan’s policies in Balochistan.
AJ+ and its parent network, Al Jazeera, have not released an official explanation for the removal of the interview or whether editorial, legal, or external political considerations played a role.
Balochistan has long been a focus of contention in human rights and freedom of expression discussions, with numerous reports from rights organisations documenting what they describe as broad restrictions on activists and journalists in the region. International groups such as Amnesty International have previously criticised the Pakistani authorities for arresting, detaining and restricting the activities of Baloch activists and peaceful protestors under anti-terror and public order laws.
The episode underscores ongoing tensions around how media outlets cover crises in politically sensitive regions, particularly when narratives challenge powerful state actors. The removal of the Yusuf Baluch interview, and the subsequent online outcry, has reignited debates over media independence, representation of marginalised communities, and the responsibilities of international news organisations in conflict zones.