UN Experts Condemn Mahrang Baloch’s Sentencing; Baloch National Movement Appreciates UN Statement
Human rights experts affiliated with the United Nations Human Rights Council have voiced their concerns over the life sentences imposed on Baloch rights activist Dr. Mahrang Baloch. They emphasized that laws related to counter-terrorism and murder charges should not be used as tools to suppress peaceful protest or restrict the fundamental freedoms of expression and assembly.
In a statement issued from Geneva, the independent UN experts expressed their apprehension regarding Dr. Mahrang Baloch’s sentencing. They called on the Pakistani authorities to ensure the protection of the rights of detained human rights defenders and to refrain from using anti-terrorism legislation to silence civic and political activism.
This development follows recent activities by the Baloch National Movement (BNM), which sent a delegation to the 62nd session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva. Led by its chairman, Dr. Naseem Baloch, the delegation participated in conferences and held meetings with UN special rapporteurs and other human rights officials to raise awareness about the situation in Balochistan.
During these meetings, the BNM delegation highlighted concerns over alleged human rights violations in Balochistan, including the detention of Dr. Mahrang Baloch, the misuse of anti-terrorism laws, enforced disappearances, collective punishments, and other reported abuses. They provided detailed documentation to support their claims and draw international attention to the region’s plight.
According to BNM, UN officials indicated that they would engage with relevant special procedures to evaluate the possibility of issuing a joint communication or statement regarding Dr. Mahrang Baloch’s case. They also expressed interest in addressing the broader human rights issues plaguing Balochistan as part of their ongoing monitoring efforts.
Following the UN experts’ statement, BNM’s Foreign Department welcomed the remarks, describing them as a sign of increasing international concern about the human rights situation in Balochistan. The department emphasized that such attention is crucial for holding authorities accountable and advocating for justice.
The organisation further stated that their ongoing engagement with UN mechanisms and human rights bodies aims to spotlight violations and push for meaningful action. They underscored their commitment to documenting abuses and working toward international pressure on Pakistan to uphold its human rights obligations.
In conclusion, BNM called on the international community, the United Nations, and human rights organizations to persist in monitoring the situation in Balochistan. They urged these entities to take concrete measures to protect human rights defenders and to encourage Pakistan to adhere to its commitments under international law, ensuring justice and accountability for the region’s victims.
