The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), Baloch Women Forum, Baloch Students Organisation (BSO-Pajjar) and Balochistan National Part (BNP) have condemned the armed attack on Government Girls’ Degree College in Nushki on 27 October, where three female students were reportedly injured.
In separate statements, the organisations called for a transparent investigation, improved medical care for the injured students and effective measures to protect educational institutions.
The BYC said three masked armed men entered the college, vandalised the principal’s office, damaged security cameras and opened fire on students. The committee raised questions about security arrangements and how the attackers escaped despite the reported presence of an FC checkpoint near the college. It also condemned the alleged forced closure of Vision Public School in Qadirabad, where armed men reportedly harassed students and threatened consequences if the school reopened.
According to the BYC, the injured students were 17-year-old Maryam, 18-year-old Rukhsana, and 17-year-old Maimoona. Maryam underwent treatment to remove a bullet, while Rukhsana sustained gunshot wounds to her spine and abdomen and underwent surgery in Quetta. Maimoona, who was shot in the leg, was subsequently discharged from hospital.
The committee also referred to the killing of Professor Ghamkhwar Hayat earlier this year, saying the incidents had raised serious concerns about the security of educational institutions. It demanded independent investigations into the college attack and the professor’s killing, accountability for those responsible, and the reopening of Vision Public School with guarantees for the safety of students and teachers. It also urged national and international human rights organisations to investigate the incidents independently.
The Baloch Women Forum (BWF) said the attack raised serious questions about the security of educational institutions and the protection afforded to female students. It warned that such incidents could deepen fear among students and families, potentially discouraging girls from pursuing education in a region already facing significant educational challenges.
BSO-Pajjar also condemned the attack, describing violence and intimidation against educational institutions as a threat to Balochistan’s educational and social future. Its spokesperson cited previous incidents involving threats against women’s education and pressure to close English-language centres, arguing that the latest attack highlighted concerns over female students’ right to education and personal autonomy.
The BNP said targeting educational institutions, intimidating female students and disrupting a peaceful learning environment were unacceptable. It urged the government and relevant authorities to ensure the safety of educational establishments and protect students’ fundamental right to education.