The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) has accused Pakistani police and security personnel of using tear gas and live fire on a peaceful sit-in protest held in Lasbela, Balochistan. The incident reportedly occurred early Sunday morning when families of missing persons and BYC activists had gathered at Hub Bawani.
Key Highlights:
The crackdown was widely condemned by human rights activists and supporters of the Baloch cause. The BYC, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), stated:
“Early this morning, police and security personnel launched a crackdown on the protest camp. They dismantled the tent, fired tear gas, and opened fire, sabotaging the protest. Despite this aggression, the participants remained peaceful. One protester has been arrested.”
Crackdown on BYC Lasbela Sit-in: Tear Gas, Firing, and Arrests
— Baloch Yakjehti Committee (@BalochYakjehtiC) March 23, 2025
In response to the central call of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee, the BYC Lasbela Region staged a sit-in at Hub Bawani. Early this morning, police and security personnel launched a crackdown on the protest camp,… pic.twitter.com/q6k0V3SnlI
Source: BYC Official Post on X
Context: Peaceful Protest Against Enforced Disappearances
The sit-in was part of a broader campaign led by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee, which advocates for justice for missing persons in Balochistan. These protests aim to highlight what activists say is a long-standing issue of enforced disappearances, allegedly carried out by state agencies.
The violent response from security forces has raised further concerns about freedom of expression and the right to peaceful protest in Pakistan.
Arrest of Mahrang Baloch Sparks Outrage
The crackdown comes just a day after the reported arrest of Mahrang Baloch, a prominent BYC organiser. She was taken into custody on Saturday during another peaceful sit-in. Her detention has been widely condemned by political leaders, human rights groups, and civil society organizations.
Activists across Pakistan and abroad are now calling for her immediate release and urging the government to uphold international human rights standards.
“The arrest of Mahrang Baloch and the use of force against peaceful protesters is unacceptable. Pakistan must allow space for civil discourse and peaceful activism,” said a spokesperson from a leading rights organisation.
Growing Support and International Attention
The events in Lasbela and the arrest of Mahrang Baloch have sparked national and international concern. Social media platforms are witnessing growing support under the #FreeMahrangBaloch hashtag, with activists, politicians, and journalists expressing solidarity with the Baloch movement.
The situation in Balochistan remains tense as calls grow louder for justice, transparency, and the release of those detained during peaceful protests.
The Baloch Yakjehti Committee’s ongoing protests underscore a deeper, unresolved crisis in Balochistan. The violent crackdown and detention of activists have once again placed Pakistan’s human rights record under scrutiny. As the global spotlight intensifies, there are rising demands for accountability, transparency, and the protection of civil liberties in the country.
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