Munir Mengal, the President of the Baloch Voice Association (BVA), has voiced strong disapproval of the life imprisonment sentence handed to Dr Mahrang Baloch, a prominent Baloch rights activist, during the 62nd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva on June 27. He described this legal action as a deliberate attempt to quash the political ambitions of the Baloch community.

Mengal asserted that Dr Mahrang Baloch acts as a representative of the collective voice of the Baloch people, bringing attention to their rights at international forums. He alleged that the judicial system in Pakistan lacks true independence, indicating that the ruling reflects the desires of governmental authorities rather than an unbiased legal assessment.

According to Mengal, the imprisonment of Dr Mahrang Baloch will not diminish the Baloch movement but is likely to galvanise greater resistance among the youth in the region. He emphasised the need for international awareness regarding the prevailing issues in Balochistan and urged global human rights organisations to investigate what he termed systematic violations of rights.

Allegations of Human Rights Violations

Mengal raised allegations concerning the widespread issue of enforced disappearances faced by thousands of Baloch individuals, including women and children. He claimed that many have fallen victim to arbitrary detentions and other forms of abuse, all occurring without any framework for accountability.

The President of the BVA accused Pakistani security forces of employing excessive force to quell dissent, stating that the atmosphere in Balochistan has become increasingly oppressive. He noted that the ability of international organisations and journalists to conduct independent monitoring has significantly diminished, as they are often allegedly denied access to the region.

Mengal called upon the United Nations to send special rapporteurs and fact-finding missions to Balochistan to better assess the human rights situation. Furthermore, he urged member nations to apply pressure on Pakistan to ensure accountability for the alleged violations of rights. His statements highlight a deeper concern regarding the deteriorating humanitarian conditions within the province.

Need for Political Dialogue

In addition to addressing human rights concerns, Mengal advocated for internationally guaranteed negotiations between the Pakistani government and Baloch representatives. He argued that the ongoing conflict is fundamentally political in nature and calls for dialogue rather than military interventions.

Describing the current environment in Balochistan as deteriorating, Mengal linked the intensification of military operations to the killing of Nawab Akbar Khan Bugti, asserting that such actions have escalated resistance within the Baloch community. He contended that ongoing violence has only served to strengthen the resolve of those fighting for Baloch rights.

His remarks underscore a pressing need for solutions that prioritise dialogue and negotiation, suggesting that military solutions will not contribute to lasting peace. Mengal’s appeal for international support reflects the broader crisis faced by the Baloch people amid rising tensions and widespread allegations of human rights breaches.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share