Balochistan [Pakistan], April 5 (ANI): Amid growing concerns over civil liberties, the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) has accused state authorities of escalating intimidation and coercion against peaceful activists in Balochistan.
The group says members and supporters face a pattern of harassment aimed at undermining its advocacy. In a press release on X, BYC said individuals and their families have been summoned to security offices and pressured to record video statements disassociating themselves from the organisation. The committee alleges these declarations are made under duress and misrepresent its peaceful objectives, undermining the movement’s credibility and creating widespread fear.
BYC asserts these actions violate Pakistan’s Constitution, citing Article 19 (freedom of expression) and Article 16 (right to peaceful assembly), and contravene international human rights obligations under the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). Mary Lawlor, UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of Human Rights Defenders, has reportedly raised concerns about activists’ treatment in Pakistan, specifically referencing issues affecting BYC members.
The committee warned that suppressing peaceful voices risks deepening mistrust and alienation rather than restoring stability. It urged authorities to stop the alleged harassment and uphold constitutional and international commitments, and appealed to national and international human rights organisations to intervene and press for accountability. BYC reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful resistance and lawful advocacy for justice and dignity in Balochistan. (ANI)
