BYC claims ban on Shiite pilgrims’ caravans under ‘so-called security’ violates religious rights

The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), a rights organization advocating for the civil, political, and socioeconomic rights of the people of Balochistan, has strongly condemned the federal government’s recent decision to ban Shiite pilgrim caravans traveling through Balochistan en route to Iraq. The group described the move as a serious violation of constitutional and fundamental rights, raising concerns about religious discrimination and state policies under the guise of security.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the BYC emphasized that freedom of religion is a basic human right guaranteed to every citizen. The organization condemned the ban, calling it an unjust restriction imposed in the name of “so-called security,” which they argued was an unacceptable infringement on religious freedoms.

The rights group further alleged that the government, citing “security concerns,” chose to impose the ban instead of fulfilling its fundamental duty to ensure the safety of its citizens. They asserted that the responsibility of the state should be to facilitate safe passage for religious pilgrims, not to obstruct or hinder their religious practices based on sectarian or security justifications.

The BYC pointed out that Shiite pilgrims have announced a long march from Karachi to the Rimdan border in protest against the ban. The organization described this march as a “constitutional and democratic right,” expressing its full support and solidarity with those participating in the protest. They called on authorities to respect the rights of the protesters and allow them to exercise their freedom peacefully.

The rights group demanded that the ban on Shiite pilgrims’ caravans be lifted immediately. They also called for the provision of full security measures to ensure the safe passage of pilgrims traveling through Balochistan to Iran and Iraq. The organization emphasized that the safety and religious rights of citizens should be prioritized over security concerns.

Furthermore, the BYC issued a warning to authorities against attempting to obstruct the march through coercion or force. They stressed that all religious minorities and sects should be allowed to practice their faith and perform religious rituals freely, without fear of harassment or restrictions imposed by state authorities.

The statement underscored the broader principle that it is the duty of the government to protect every citizen’s religious, political, and democratic rights. Instead of curtailing these rights under the pretext of security, the state should work to create an environment of tolerance and protection for all communities.

It is important to note that Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Interior recently announced that Shiite pilgrims would be barred from traveling to Iraq via Balochistan, citing security threats along the route. The government maintained that the decision was made to safeguard the safety of pilgrims amid potential risks.

On the other hand, Shiite religious organizations and pilgrims have opposed the ban, arguing that the state’s primary responsibility is to provide security, not to restrict religious rights or prevent citizens from performing their religious rituals. They insist that religious freedom must be upheld and that security measures should focus on safeguarding pilgrims, not restricting their religious practices.