Pakistan army accuses Mahrang Baloch of supporting terrorism; human rights groups denounce claims

Pakistan’s military has recently accused Baloch rights activist Dr. Mahrang Baloch of acting as a proxy for terrorist groups, prompting strong condemnation from human rights advocates and the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC). During a press conference, DG ISPR Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry alleged that Dr. Baloch maintained links with “terrorist networks” and called on media outlets to uncover what he described as the “sinister face” of the BYC. These claims have been met with widespread skepticism and outrage from those who view them as politically motivated attempts to discredit peaceful activism.

The BYC responded swiftly, dismissing the military’s allegations as “baseless and defamatory.” The organization emphasized that it is a peaceful political and human rights group committed to nonviolent advocacy for the democratic and civil rights of the Baloch people. They highlighted Dr. Mahrang Baloch’s reputation as a respected human rights defender with a documented history of peaceful activism, condemning the accusations as false and harmful.

The committee further stated that both Dr. Baloch and the BYC have consistently condemned all forms of violence and remain dedicated to lawful, democratic resistance. They argued that the military’s statements are part of a broader effort to divert attention from ongoing human rights abuses in Balochistan, including enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings. The BYC expressed a willingness to cooperate with international investigations if credible evidence is presented, asserting that their commitment to transparency remains intact.

Human rights lawyer Imaan Mazari also condemned the military’s comments, describing them as “venom, lies, and hatred” aimed at a peaceful activist. She recalled the violence inflicted upon Dr. Baloch’s family, including the enforced disappearance and mutilation of her father’s body, and praised her for choosing peace over violence. Mazari reaffirmed Dr. Baloch’s role as a voice for Balochistan’s marginalized and oppressed, emphasizing her continued demand for peace and human rights protections.

Dr. Baloch’s family issued a statement vehemently rejecting the military’s accusations, calling them “baseless, false, and motivated by political vengeance.” They highlighted that despite the state’s extensive surveillance capabilities, no credible evidence linking Dr. Baloch to violence has ever been produced. The family questioned why, if she were truly involved in violent activities, the authorities have not pursued a transparent legal process rather than resorting to media trials and repression.

The family also accused the military of misrepresenting Dr. Baloch’s remarks during a recent press conference, which followed an armed attack claimed by a militant group. They explained that, although the group had identified some of its fighters involved in the incident, many bodies were buried secretly without proper identification, raising concerns about enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings in the region. They clarified that Dr. Baloch had called for transparency and proper identification, not for the return of militants’ bodies.

Currently, Dr. Baloch remains detained under Pakistan’s colonial-era Maintenance of Public Order (3MPO) law, which has faced criticism from legal experts and courts for its potential for abuse. Her family stated that they are considering legal action against the military’s public accusations and expressed frustration over the lack of justice and media access. They announced their intention to raise their concerns on the international stage, seeking accountability and transparency.

Dr. Mahrang Baloch, a medical doctor and prominent organizer with BYC, has become one of the most visible voices highlighting the human rights crisis in Balochistan. Her activism includes leading a nearly 1,000-mile march from Balochistan to Islamabad in late 2023, demanding justice for victims of enforced disappearances. She was detained twice during this protest, yet her efforts garnered international recognition for her courageous stand.

Her advocacy has earned her a place among global influential figures, being named in BBC’s 100 most influential women and TIME magazine’s 100 emerging leaders in 2024. Additionally, she has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, acknowledging her commitment to peace, justice, and human rights in a region plagued by violence and repression. Her international recognition underscores her significance as a peaceful activist fighting for the rights of her people amid ongoing state suppression.

The Pakistani authorities’ accusations against Dr. Baloch have drawn widespread criticism from human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan. These groups have condemned the use of counter-terrorism laws to silence peaceful dissent in Balochistan, warning that such tactics undermine the rule of law and exacerbate human rights violations. The UN has also expressed concern over Pakistan’s conflation of activism with terrorism and has called for independent investigations, the ratification of international conventions, and the criminalization of enforced disappearances.